Ahmad Fuzi (in white) and Chow (third from left) at the open house. With them are (from left) Zulkifli, Law, Lim, Mohamad and Rashidi. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star Cultural performances staged during the state open house.
State event brings together leaders, folk from near and far to Butterworth venue
THE spirit of harmony was palpable at the Hari Raya open house hosted by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak and the state government.
About 3,000 people from all walks of life gathered for the celebration held at the grand ballroom of the Penang Convention Centre (Picca) @ Butterworth Arena.
Music, laughter and the aroma of traditional Malay dishes filled the air, creating a festive atmosphere.
A big crowd showing up at Picca for the Hari Raya open house in Butterworth.
Among the crowd was 72-year-old Pau Foong Lin, who attended the event with her 12-year-old granddaughter, Foong Li Earn.
The duo from Taman Kerapu, Butterworth, said they had never missed the state’s Hari Raya open house.
“I look forward to this every year.
“The food is always delicious and the people are so friendly,” said Pau, as her granddaughter nodded in agreement.
Pau (right) and Li Earn attend the Aidilfitri open house every year.
For many, the event was not just about the food but also a chance to share in a celebration that fostered understanding across communities.
Riduan Yusuf, 23, who came from Padang Serai, some 26km away, said the open house reminded him that, “We live in a country where we can celebrate each other’s joys”.
“It’s moments like these that make me proud to be Malaysian,” said Riduan, who came to the open house with his friend by motorcycle.
Shemalatha with Mahisha (left) and Trisni at the state open house for the first time.
Housewife S. Shemalatha, 36, who came with her daughter V. Mahisha, eight, and their neighbour M. Trisni, eight, said it was the first time they had attended such a grand open house celebration.
“We live just a few minutes away from the venue so I decided to bring my daughter and her friend,” Shemalatha said.
During the event Ahmad Fuzi and his wife, Toh Puan Khadijah Mohd Nor, greeted guests at the entrance, exchanging greetings and handshakes with many.
Guests were treated to a buffet of local favourites including rendang, lemang, nasi impit and an array of traditional Malay kuih.
Cultural performances staged during the state open house.
Cultural performances, Raya-themed songs and traditional dances added to the vibrant atmosphere, earning applause from young and old alike.
Despite the large crowd, the event was well organised, with volunteers and staff ensuring a smooth flow of guests throughout the day.
Present at the event were Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, State Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, State Secretary Datuk Zulkifli Long, state trade and entrepreneurial development and rural development committee chairman Datuk Rashidi Zinol and former chief minister Lim Guan Eng.
