IPOH: Thousands thronged the Lost World of Tambun here to attend Perak's state-level Chinese New Year open house celebration.
The theme park was a hive of activity, with the opening ceremony graced by Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
His consort Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim was also present.
The event was also attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is Tambun MP, his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, and Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
Other guests including politicians, ministers and state leaders also turned up at the event to celebrate the Year of Rabbit.
The open house from 2pm to 5pm saw people taking the opportunity to swim in the various pools at the park, as well as enjoying themselves on the rides.
Entrance to the park was free for the event, which also saw lion dance, traditional fan dance and Chinese orchestra performance.
Angpows were also handed out to children from several orphanages.
The leaders then joined Sultan Nazrin and Tuanku Zara Salim in tossing yee sang, a traditional Lunar New Year dish.
In his speech, Saarani said after almost three years of muted Chinese New Year celebrations owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, all Malaysians could once again experience the excitement of visiting an open house during the festival.
He said the Rabbit, associated with intelligence and calmness, is a symbol of unity for both the state and country to rise and rebuild.
“The pandemic taught us that no matter how great the challenge, it can be overcome with the spirit of unity and togetherness.
“Many signs suggest that 2023 will be laden with trials and obstacles, especially the global economy that is expected to see a recession, triggering all kinds of uncertainty,” he added.
Saarani said such challenges require both state and federal governments to continue working hand in hand to ensure the country's stability as the economy recovers.
