PETALING JAYA: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar has confirmed his attendance at the Chinese New Year event to be held at the Klang Hokkien Association Hall on Sunday (Feb 16).
He said that the public event, planned months in advance, is expected to attract a thousand guests from all walks of life.
"I am looking forward to meeting everyone and having a good time. The staff from the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) is currently down there with other organisations to ensure everything is in place for tomorrow," said Mohd Na'im, showing pictures of red chairs lined up in a hall, complete with round dining tables.
He was responding to reports that the event was cancelled at the last minute.
"How can it be cancelled? Jakim has always attended this event every year in line with the fact Chinese New Year is not a religious festival," said Mohd Na'im.
Prof Datuk Dr Taufiq Yap Yun Hin, president of the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association (Macma) said he was surprised over reports stating that the event was cancelled.
"We have been preparing for the event months ahead, as it is a big event. Furthermore, to ensure that the Minister would be able to fit it into his schedule.
"It is definitely happening tomorrow (Feb 16) at the Klang Hokkien Association headquarters in Klang.
"We have many interesting performances planned with lots of food for the guests. This event will see many guests from all the NGOs as well as Chinese associations. It is also open to the public as Klang has a big Chinese population.
"We will keep to the Chinese traditions as closely as possible to ensure a memorable experience for everyone," said Taufiq, when contacted.
Earlier Saturday (Feb 15), Jakim issued a statement that the annual "Jalinan Muhibbah Madani" programme, taking place at the Klang Hokkien Association in Selangor on Sunday (Feb 16), is organised in collaboration with several organisations, including the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association, the Malaysian Islamic Welfare Organisation, and the Hidayah Centre Foundation.
"Additionally, state Islamic authorities, namely the Selangor Islamic Religious Council and the Selangor Islamic Religious Department, will also be involved," it added.
In the past few days, there have been media reports on Mohd Na'im making an appearance at the Chinese New Year event.
Earlier, a few Chinese media reported that the event was cancelled at the last minute.
