MELAKA: Celebrating Chinese New Year during Ramadan once again showcased Melaka’s deep-rooted culture of unity and mutual respect among its multiracial communities, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
He said the celebration reflected thoughtful consideration for Muslims, with all programmes scheduled to begin only after the Tarawih prayers.
“This shows that Muslim traditions are respected, while at the same time we are able to celebrate the culture and customs of the Chinese community in harmony.
“It also reflects how the Melaka family concept championed by the state government continues to strengthen the foundation of unity long built in this state,” he said after attending the celebration at Dataran Klebang on Tuesday night.
Also present was Yang di-Pertua Negeri Melaka Tun Mohd Ali Rustam.
Thousands of people from various backgrounds turned up for the event, which featured vibrant cultural performances, including a lively lion dance.
Ab Rauf said this year’s celebration also embraced the Melaka Sayang Rakyat (Mesra) concept, aimed at further fostering unity among the people.
He noted that while kiosks and stalls were introduced last year, visitors this time were treated to a complimentary buffet spread featuring a variety of traditional Lunar New Year dishes.
“For me, Lunar New Year is not just a date on the calendar. It is a space for us to sit at the same table, share a meal and, most importantly, be together.
“Through gatherings like this, we build trust and strengthen bonds of friendship despite our differences in race and religion,” he added.
He said that the Mesra initiative is more than a slogan, describing it as a governance approach to ensure the people feel the government’s support in their daily lives.
“If there are youths seeking jobs, small traders looking to expand, or senior citizens in need of care, we will assist them regardless of ethnicity.
Ab Rauf added that RM78.67mil has been allocated for welfare initiatives this year, up from RM76.96mil last year and RM66.07mil in 2024.
Meanwhile, Klebang assemblyman Datuk Lim Ban Hong said the celebration coincided with Chap Goh Mei, with a wide array of dishes prepared for Muslims breaking their fast while joining the festivities.
“The food was served during buka puasa and continued until moreh (late-night meal) after the Tarawih prayers,” he said.
Lim added that the event also featured a mass buka puasa at Dataran Klebang, blending the festive cheer of Chinese New Year with the solemn spirit of Ramadan.
