PUTRAJAYA, April 13 (Bernama) – Some 21,000 people turned up for the Lebaran Kasih Aidilfitri Open House hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi at his official residence Sri Satria here this evening.
The event was made all the more joyful by the presence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
Anwar and Dr Wan Azizah arrived at 7.57 pm and were greeted by Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, and his wife Datin Seri Hamidah Khamis.
Also present were several Cabinet ministers, including Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, as well as Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.
Among others in attendance were Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, Bernama Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj and Deputy Editor-in-Chief (News Service) Nasriah Darus.
Speaking to reporters, Ahmad Zahid expressed his appreciation to all the guests who attended despite tomorrow being a working and school day.
“They came from near and far, political colleagues, family members, and especially the residents of Putrajaya who made time to attend with their children even though it is a school day tomorrow, I extend my heartfelt thanks,” he said
The celebration also featured the giving of duit raya to 25 children from Pusat Jagaan Anak-Anak Insan Al Rahmat Hikmah, Ampang, Selangor, as well as children under the age of 12.
Guests were treated to a variety of Hari Raya Aidilfitri delicacies, including murtabak, soto ayam, cendol, char kuey teow, and apam balik, and enjoyed a fireworks display.
The festivities, which ran from 8 pm to 11 pm, were further enlivened by performances from artistes such as Datuk Jamal Abdillah, Hael Husaini, Nadeera Azmi, Wany Hasrita, and Ara Johari.
-- BERNAMA
