Children performing on stage during the open house.
THE vibrant tradition of open houses by Malaysia’s diverse communities deserves recognition as a Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Major festivals such as Hari Raya, Deepavali and Chinese New Year among others, he said, were celebrated in the spirit of harmony, togetherness and mutual respect in Malaysia.
“The tradition of hosting open houses for different festivals has been practised for nearly 50 years. This is something truly special about Malaysia, one of our greatest strengths.
“As such, this unique cultural practice can be submitted to Unesco for consideration to be inscribed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
“If it receives recognition, it will encourage greater participation in the open houses, further strengthening our unity,” said Chow as reported by state publisher Buletin Mutiara.
He made the proposal when attending a Hari Raya open house jointly organised by the Batu Kawan parliamentary constituency and the Bukit Tambun state constituency at SJK (C) Keng Koon recently.
Food laid out in the buffet line at the open house.
Chow, who is Batu Kawan MP, said the Penang government would not neglect social development while focusing on economic and infrastructure development.
He said the state would be able to attend to the grassroots through the support of bodies such as the Village Community Management Council (MPKK), Penang Youth Committee (JBPP), Relanita (female volunteers) and Women and Family Development Committee (JPWK).
Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, who was also present, shared an update on the Ar-Rayyan Mosque in Bandar Cassia, which has now been completed at a cost of RM10mil.
He said the Penang government contributed RM3.5mil to the project, with the Federal Government providing a similar amount.
“This reflects the state’s inclusive approach to serving people of all religions and ethnic backgrounds,” he said.
It is understood that the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) also contributed RM600,000, with individual donations amounting to RM2mil.
The remaining costs were borne by the local mosque community.
Goh also urged MPKK to go to the ground and provide assistance to more people.
