KUALA KUBU BAHARU – The Selangor government dropped its initial plan of giving out duit raya during its Aidilfitri open house here after being advised against it, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
According to the itinerary, he was supposed to give out about 750 packets of duit raya.
“It was decided after we were advised against it. We do not want the gesture to be misinterpreted,” he told reporters at the state-level open house here last night.
“As such, we are taking precautions… it shows we take all views into consideration.”
At the same time, Amirudin said the open house was held in Kuala Kubu Baharu as per a rotation system – as opposed to such festivities being held at each district in the past.
“Coincidentally, the crown prince (Tengku Amir Shah) also agreed to have it here. The response was good.
“The recent Chinese New Year celebration was held in Sepang, maybe we’d do a rotation for Merdeka to be closer to the community.”
The crown prince was not seen at the event, but state executive councillors attended.
Meanwhile, Amirudin said the programme yesterday did not contain any elements of campaigning, and was a state government event.
He added that all were welcomed to attend, including the opposition.
Aside from the fireworks, local artists such as Ella, Sarah Suhairi, Naim Daniel and Aiman Tino thrilled the crowds with their performances.
Previously, Bersih expressed concerns over the timing and location of the state government’s Aidilfitri open house this year.
The electoral watchdog said it would potentially violate Sections 8 and 10 – on feasting and bribery – of the Election Offences Act 1954.
This was because the open house would have included hosting meals during the election campaign period and possible distribution of duit raya. – April 28, 2024