People of different ethnic backgrounds posing for photographs with Santa Claus and Santarina.
RAIN failed to dampen the festive spirit of thousands of people gathered to savour food and enjoy an entertainment show at the Selangor state Christmas celebration in Petaling Jaya.
A stage was set up at Laman MBPJ, where a concert featuring violinist Dr Joanne Yeoh, Kingdomcity Band, choirs from Full Gospel Tabernacle Church and PJ State Chinese Methodist Church, and a wheelchair dance by the Beautiful Gate Foundation.
Malaysian singer Juwita Suwito also made an appearance.
The guests and residents were treated to a variety of local and international food, such as fried rice, roti john, murtabak and spaghetti, from the many booths that were put up in the surrounding areas.
Ng (right) in a festive mood as he takes a photo with guests at the Christmas party.
One of them was V. Thiruvathiran, 41, from Jalan Kelang Lama, who said the set-up was a crowd-puller.
“I knew about the event but did not plan to come. I just happened to drive past the area on my way to a restaurant for dinner when I saw the set-up with a stage, lights and tents.
“I was with my wife and two children, so we decided to drop by. The event was well organised. We enjoyed the concert and the food,” he said.
Another guest was accountant James Lim, 34, from Shah Alam, who was spotted with his wife and two children.
“It is a good outing for the family,” he said.
There was also an interactive section, a booth offering children a chance to decorate their own cupcakes, doughnuts and gingerbread men.
A 360-degree video booth also caught the attention of many.
Samsia trying a creative shot at the 360-degree video booth. — Photos: AZLINA ADULLAH/the Star
One of them was reporter Samsia Samsi, 38, from Kuala Lumpur.
Samsia said this was her first attempt at a video shot on a 360 ramp.
“It was fun. I shared the clip with family and friends,” she said.
State local government and tourism committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim said the celebration showed the strong bond between the people and the state.
“Events such as this not only promote harmony among people of different races and religions but also the understanding of their cultures and beliefs.
“It also promotes closeness between the people and the leaders,” he said.
He added that the state allocated RM4.5mil next year for Gagasan Rumpun Selangor, a state programme to promote unity.
“There will be carnivals and tours encouraging unity in all nine districts in Selangor,” he said.
