GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government will proceed with its official Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house jointly hosted with Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib but the celebration will be on a modest scale.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the annual event typically involves just one function and has always been conducted in a simple manner.
"Throughout the years, the open house has never been lavish. It is more of a tradition to engage with the people with local dishes served," he said during a press conference in Komtar on Thursday (March 12)
Chow said the event serves as a platform for leaders to connect with the public, noting that many look forward to the opportunity to meet and greet the Governor and state leaders.
He said the state government had also advised departments and agencies to hold Aidilfitri celebrations internally and modestly.
However, he said events involving large expenditures or extravagant celebrations should be avoided.
Chow said community-level open houses organised by elected representatives or Village Community Management Councils (MPKK) could still proceed as they provide an opportunity to engage with the public.
"Events like this help strengthen ties among people of different races, especially during Aidilfitri celebrations," he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously said the federal government would not be hosting any Hari Raya Aidilfitri open houses following geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
He said all parties should practise more prudent and moderate spending amid global uncertainties arising from the conflict.
