PUTRAJAYA: Eager Malaysians thronged Seri Perdana on the first day of Hari Raya for the Aidilfitri open house held by the Prime Minister, with some arriving as early as 8am Friday (June 15).
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his Cabinet welcomed the public much earlier than expected, throwing the doors open at 9am instead of 10am as scheduled.
This time around, the main house which has traditionally been used to welcome dignitaries and the public was closed.
Instead, the crowd was ushered to a series of large tents in the garden overlooking the Prime Minister's office.
In line with Pakatan Harapan's aim for a leaner and more efficient administration, the celebrations today were simple yet festive.
Dignitaries were gathered on a simple stage to greet the public who eagerly waited in line to shake hands with them.
Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Azmin Ali and his wife were among the first to welcome the guests at around 10am.
It is understood that some 10 tents were prepared just for the food to cater to the guests.
Some 50,000 people are expected at today's do.
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