KOTA KINABALU: City folk from all walks of life – dressed in their best baju kurung and baju Melayu – flocked to the Istana Negeri here to celebrate the arrival of Syawal in the spirit of togetherness.
Hosted by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin, the public were treated to a variety of delicacies prepared by several hotels in the state capital.
They were also entertained with Hari Raya songs performed by local bands and artistes.
Also present at the open house were Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman and his deputy ministers Datuk Seri Yahya Hussein, Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan and Datuk Raymond Tan Shu Kiah, among other state ministers.
Jaujan Salim, 42, from Pulau Gaya, said he attends Hari Raya open house at the Istana Negeri each and every year.
"I took a boat to the city with my family. Open house is a great platform to spread unity and togetherness.
"Every year, I see people from different backgrounds coming together in the spirit of understanding to celebrate the festive season," he said, adding that the open house culture must be maintained.
Chang Yi Mei, 32, from Inanam, said she enjoys visiting open houses because they allow her to not only celebrate Hari Raya, but dress up for the occasion.
"I don't always wear baju kurung, so today is a good reason to put one on and see what others are wearing," she said.
Chang, who arrived at the open house with her friends, took the opportunity to wish all Muslims a joyful Raya.
The open house also saw Chinese tourists visiting Istana Negeri as they took the opportunity to join in the celebration.