Malaysia

Aidilfitri open houses draw thousands as communities celebrate unity nationwide

Traditional festive gatherings across Malaysian states continue to foster goodwill and strengthen ties between communities, with large crowds attending events hosted by state leaders and royalty

Updated 2 months ago · Published on 21 Mar 2026 5:27PM

Aidilfitri open houses draw thousands as communities celebrate unity nationwide
Attendees were served an assortment of traditional and modern delicacies including ketupat, lemang, rendang, alongside a wide selection of cakes and beverages (File pic) - March 21, 2026

THE tradition of Aidilfitri open houses has continued to nurture a spirit of goodwill across Malaysia, with celebrations in several states drawing large crowds in a vibrant display of unity and cultural harmony.

In Sarawak, thousands of visitors began arriving at the Astana Negeri grounds in Kuching from as early as 9am to attend the Aidilfitri open house hosted by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi. Guests from diverse backgrounds, spanning different ages, ethnicities and religions, were treated to a variety of dishes while taking the opportunity to interact with state leaders in a cordial atmosphere.

In Johor, members of the public from various communities gathered at the Aidilfitri open house hosted by Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi at Saujana, Johor Bahru, with arrivals beginning as early as 8am.

Attendees were served an assortment of traditional and modern delicacies including ketupat, lemang, rendang, soto and mi rebus, alongside a wide selection of cakes and beverages.

More than 20,000 visitors were reported to have attended the event held at the Menteri Besar’s official residence.

In Negeri Sembilan, Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir and Tunku Ampuan Besar Tuanku Aishah Rohani graced the Istana Terbuka Aidilfitri at Istana Besar Seri Menanti in Kuala Pilah.

Also present were Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and members of the state executive council. The event featured traditional fare, with visitors also taking the opportunity to capture memorable moments within the palace grounds.

Meanwhile in Perlis, about 8,000 guests attended the Aidilfitri celebration at Istana Arau, which unfolded in a festive and convivial setting.

Raja Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail mingled with attendees and distributed festive contributions, accompanied by Raja Perempuan Perlis Tuanku Tengku Fauziah Almarhum Tengku Abdul Rashid and members of the royal family.

Visitors were served a range of traditional dishes, and many described the occasion as a meaningful experience that strengthened the bond between the people and the royal institution.

One attendee, Mohd Faizal Ahmad, 35, from Kangar, said he was delighted to attend the event with his family, noting the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a royal open house firsthand. - March 21, 2026

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