KUALA LUMPUR: Guests at the MCA Chinese New Year open house praised it as a vibrant showcase of Malaysia's multicultural unity.
"My fiance and I arrived in Malaysia yesterday. My mother is Malaysian, and my father is British.
“They recommended we celebrate Chinese New Year here. It's quite different from the UK; the atmosphere here is festive with stunning decorations and a mix of people celebrating together," said Joel Burch, a UK citizen.
Sivadas, a senior citizen, highlighted the uniqueness of Malaysia's open house tradition, which might not be found in other countries.
"We celebrate Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas with open houses. It's a tradition worth preserving as it fosters unity and harmony among diverse groups," he said.
He added that such celebrations would unite people from various backgrounds in unity and harmony.
Azlan Zainan, who returned to Malaysia after a decade abroad, was moved by the national spirit of celebration.
"After 10 years away, it's heartwarming to return and witness such festivities," he said, adding that he brought his Ukrainian wife to the open house to introduce her to Malaysian culture.
Tan See How, a local resident, has attended the celebration at the MCA headquarters for four years.
"The concept of an open house that welcomes everyone is wonderful and promotes racial harmony," he noted.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi graced the event at Wisma MCA on Wednesday (Jan 29).
MCA President Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, Secretary-General Datuk Chong Sin Woon, and other leaders, including Barisan Nasional Secretary-General Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, welcomed him.
