Over 20,000 people attended Johor Menteri Besar’s open house, celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri and the spirit of ‘Bangsa Johor’ unity.

JOHOR BAHRU: Over 20,000 people from various ethnicities attended the Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house hosted by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

The extraordinary attendance reflected the strong spirit of ‘Bangsa Johor’ and the close relationship between the state government and its people.

Crowds began gathering as early as 8 am to enjoy the festive atmosphere at Saujana, the official residence of the Johor MB.

A total of 37 stalls offered a wide variety of traditional and modern dishes for guests.

The spread included ketupat, lemang, rendang, beef biryani, soto, mee rebus, various kuih, and hot and cold beverages.

Private executive Nor Intan Ilyana Rahman, 34, said the event provided a meaningful space for direct interaction between leaders and the people.

“It’s not often that we can share space in such a relaxed atmosphere,” she said.

Clerk G. Tashweena, 29, described the atmosphere as a true reflection of community harmony in the state.

“All races sitting at the same table, sharing food, and greeting each other without any barriers,” she said.

She added that this reflects a unity that occurs naturally and is not artificially created.

Retiree Lim Siew Eng, 62, said such outreach programmes build confidence in the state leadership.

“When leaders meet with the people in such an atmosphere, it fosters a sense of mutual trust,” she noted.

The open house served as a social space that brought together people from various backgrounds.

This gathering strengthened community networks beyond just being a platform to enjoy festive dishes.

Onn Hafiz took time to mingle and take photographs with guests, adding to the event’s warm atmosphere.

Several state leaders and dignitaries were also present at the celebration.

Attendees included State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee chairman Lee Ting Han.

State Youth, Sports, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah and MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong were also present.

 The Sun Malaysia