ALOR SETAR: Over 25,000 visitors thronged the Malaysia Madani Open House here, says Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He said the food at the 60 stalls provided was almost finished before the ceremony ended.
“I am confident that the target of 25,000 visitors was achieved within four hours and I would like to thank everyone who attended today.
“This open house in Kedah is the Prime Minister’s main programme even though it will be held in five other states and I would like to say that there is no wastage because all the food such as fried noodles, satay and lemang were taken up,” he told reporters at the event here, which was attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Cabinet ministers, yesterday.
Also present was Kedah Ruler Sultan Sallehuddin ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah.
Saifuddin said the presence of Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, who accompanied Sultan Sallehuddin, could also strengthen the spirit of brotherhood and goodwill.
“This shows the maturity of politicians to set aside any political sentiments and differences ... political leaders of different orientations can be on the same platform to celebrate Aidilfitri,” he added.
Saifuddin said the central government did not overlook Kedah, which is administered by the Opposition, Bernama reported.
“The Federal Government has announced the allocation of RM1.6bil for new or related projects (for Kedah) ... this is not for projects under planning but this is the budget that has been approved for 442 federal projects in the state,” he said, adding the Federal Government did not distinguish states that are not led by the unity government as they would still receive large allocations.
He said the Prime Minister wants a new approach where both the Federal Government and the state government focus on the people as the priority.
