BAGAN DATOH: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor joined more than 20,000 guests in a colourful national-level Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house here tonight.
The programme, organised by the Tourism and Culture Ministry, was aimed at nurturing goodwill and enhancing relations between the leaders and the people.
Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and his wife Datin Seri Hamidah Khamis.
The crowd from all walks of life started to throng Sekolah Menegah Kebangsaan Hutan Melintang as early as 3pm. They were feted to a wide array of local foods and Hari Raya delicacies such as rendang, lemang, and ketupat.
In light of the spate of terror attacks all over the world and in the country, security measures were beefed up at the venue.
Najib, clad in a dark blue 'baju melayu', arrived at 9pm and was greeted by ushers in traditional costume amid the cheerful sounds of various traditional musical instruments.
Cultural performances were lined up throughout the celebration, which began at 8.30pm.
Among the artistes who entertained the crowd included Datuk Jamal Abdillah, Datuk Jalaluddin Hassan, Datuk M. Daud Kilau, and Awie.
Sundry shop owner Abdullah Kasim, 57, said he was amazed by the programme which he said was one of the biggest celebrations to take place in Bagan Datoh.
“I hope more national-level programmes can be held here to promote Bagan Datoh as a tourist destination,” said the father of two.
Secondary-school teacher Ng Siew Lian, 32, said the programme reflected the racial harmony enjoyed by various races in the district.
“I decided to come here to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri with my fellow Malay friends,” she said.
Meanwhile, Najib in his opening speech, said open house celebrations were proof of the country’s political stability.
"Events like this can only be held if there is political stability. This stability can only be achieved when people of different races are united and live peacefully together.
"Strong unity among the people and political stability are the main key to national development and prosperity,” he said.
Najib said Malaysia was a unique country as it managed to maintain racial harmony despite differences in language and religious beliefs among the various races.