OPEN houses celebrated by Malaysia’s diverse communities are a unique hallmark of the nation’s unity and brotherly ties, and deserve to be nominated as Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow made this proposal while attending the Hari Raya Open House jointly organised by the Batu Kawan parliamentary constituency and the Bukit Tambun state constituency at SJKC Keng Koon today.
Chow said Malaysians should be grateful that major festivities such as Hari Raya, Deepavali, Chinese New Year, and others are celebrated in the spirit of harmony, togetherness, and mutual respect.
“This is something truly special about Malaysia, one of our greatest strengths. The tradition of hosting open houses for different festivals has been practised for nearly 50 years.
“As such, this unique cultural practice could be submitted to Unesco for consideration to be inscribed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
“If it receives recognition, it will encourage greater participation in the open houses, further strengthening our unity, which cannot be shaken by anything,” Chow added.
Chow also reaffirmed that the state government will not neglect social development while focusing on economic and infrastructure development.
“As the Batu Kawan MP, I would like to thank my colleagues in the Perai, Bukit Tengah, and Bukit Tambun constituencies for their dedication to the well-being of our residents.
“Through the support of bodies such as the Village Community Management Council (MPKK), the Penang Youth Committee (JBPP), Relanita (female volunteers), the Women and Family Development Committee (JPWK), and others, we are able to attend to the grassroots.
“However, if we have not reached out to some, I urge them to come forward and share their challenges with us. This is similar to what Bukit Tambun assemblyman YB Goh Choon Aik emphasised in his speech earlier,” he added.
Goh had earlier shared an update on the Ar-Rayyan Mosque in Bandar Cassia, which has now been completed for RM10 million.
“The state government contributed RM3.5 million to the project, with the Federal government providing an equal amount.
“This reflects the state’s inclusive approach to serving people of all religions and ethnic backgrounds,” he said.
It is learnt that the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) contributed RM600,000, while individual donations totalled RM2 million. The remaining costs were borne by the local mosque community.
Goh also urged the MPKKs to go on the ground and reach out to more people and provide them with comprehensive assistance.
Some of the moments captured at the joyous Hari Raya Open House :-
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siew Chia En