Interior leaders hold Raya open house

TENOM: More than 5,000 people attended the Hari Raya open house of Umno Youth information chief Jamawi Jaafar and his wife, Zainatunnisa Ibrahim, at their residence at Taman Lebih Maju here on Saturday.

Among those present were Rural Development Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Radin Malleh, Kemabong assemblyman Datuk Rubin Balang, Melalap community development leader Simon Mamat, Keningau Umno information chief Azman Haji Ruslan and Keningau Umno Youth chief Nik Nadzri Nik Zawawi.

Jamawi, who is also Tenom Umno Youth chief, in his speech said the festivals held in the country, especially in Sabah, were a platform for unity and harmony of the various racial and religious communities. This, he said, is manifested by the presence of multiracial and religious communities of different religious affiliations at open house ceremonies at whatever festivals in the state.

“The public’s response to Hari Raya open houses organized by leaders has increased despite race and religious differences. This shows that open house events are venues and a catalyst for community solidarity in the state besides strengthening family ties,” he said.

Jamawi’s Raya open house which was held from 10 am to 2 pm was also attended by Chinese community leaders and volunteer organization leaders in the district.

On the same day, Keningau Umno Wanita chief Hajah Amelia Ajun and Keningau Umno Youth chief Nik Nadzri Nik Zawawi also held their open house at their respective homes.

In Tambunan, Amelia held her open house at Kampung Goliung Tambunan which were attended by some 3,000 people. Among those present were Keningau Umno chief Datuk Haji Sairin Karno and his wife, PBS Tambunan vice president Datuk Lawrence Gimbang, Keningau Umno and Barisan Nasional leaders.

Meanwhile, in Keningau, over 5,000 people attended the open house of Nik Nadzri Nik Zawawi at his residence, including Sairin and his wife, District chief OKK Mohd Amir Datuk Arif, Keningau information officer Hendry Nurdin, Keningau police chief DSP Ahmad Jawila.

The event was livened up with performances by artiste Haris Baba rendering Hari Raya songs.

Nik Nadzri and Haris Baba (centre) together with guests at the open house.

Jamawi and wife (rear, standing) together with Radin (left) and his wife and other guests.

Amelia and husband (fifth right) together with Sairin (seventh right) and wife and other guests.