MELAKA: The century-old Christmas celebration in this historic city is a time to spread goodwill among the various communities in the state, says Melaka's Chief Minister.
Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh noted that Yuletide has been celebrated in the state since time immemorial, and local revellers must maintain the distinctive features of the celebration by sharing with friends and the underprivileged.
"It's time for us to show love, kindness and understanding," he said.
"Hence, I hope those in the local hospitality industry organise more charity events for the unprivileged during this Yuletide to make the celebration more meaningful," he stated in an interview on Sunday (Dec 15).
Ab Rauf mentioned that monetary aid has been distributed to 200 deserving revellers in the state in conjunction with Christmas during an event on Friday (Dec 13).
"My Christmas wish for this year is for the locals to remain united so that the state can continue to develop in aspects of the economy.
"Let's all hope that next year will be a better year for all of us with the exponential arrival of tourists and more investments in the state," he added.
Ab Rauf highlighted that Christmas has been a significant celebration in the state and the Yuletide holiday season is set to be a busy one in the state.
"The state is anticipating record-breaking holidaymakers, especially in the Portuguese Settlement to relish the Christmas ambience.
"This is the time of year when tourism players can create lifelong memories among the tourists," he remarked.
Ab Rauf also said he will direct the relevant authorities to implement the price control scheme to lighten the burden of shoppers for the upcoming Christmas festivities.
"We will make sure of reasonable prices in the distribution chain for the benefit of consumers and traders," he concluded.
