PM Najib to attend Dong Zong CNY open house

Hardline Chinese educationist pressure group Dong Zong is all geared up to welcome Najib Abdul Razak at its Chinese New Year open house on Sunday, which it bills as a momentous event.

Dong Zong, or the United Chinese School Committees Association of Malaysia, said the prime minister has accepted the invitation to attend the function to be held at its Higher Learning Centre in Jalan Bukit, Kajang.

About 3,000 guests, including the Singaporean high commissioner, as well as ambassadors and education groups from China and Taiwan are expected to attend the open house.

The Malay Mailhad first front paged Dong Zong’s invitation to Najib on Feb 8.

Dong Zong chairperson Yap Sin Tian (left)said it would bea historic occasionbecause Najib would be the first premier in the last 50 years to attend a Dong Zong event and this would signal well towards fostering better ties between the government and the Chinese community.

“The prime minister’s attendance will symbolise the important of the Chinese community and his (Najib) position in the community.

“Dong Zong has been established for 58 years and this is the first ice-breaking session with a prime minister ... the highest ranking leader in the country.

No pressure to prime minister

“His presence is important in making sure this gathering is effective and overwhelming,” he said.

Yap said the presence of the prime minister would enhance the overall mood of the celebration.

“A total 85 Chinese associations and organisations in Johor have expressed hope that Najib will attend ... they will be coming and we hope Najib, with his hectic schedule, will make it.

“The gathering is in no way to pressure the prime minister for anything ... but to celebrate with him,” added Yap.

Meanwhile, Chow Siew Hon, Dong Zong deputy chairperson, said among those who will be welcoming the premier include the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), the Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor (KLSCCCI) and Kuala Lumpur Selangor Chinese Assembley Hall (KLSCAH).

“Chinese education in Malaysia has always been in a difficult position. We hope that through this gathering, we will be able to foster a better understanding towards a stronger working relationship in future,” he said.

Apart from a host of local delicacies, guests at the open house will also be treated to a display of Chinese traditional arts, cultural performances including Indian dancers, wayang kulit and also calligraphy.

“There will also be a showcase on Chinese history and other activities. We are very happy the prime minister will be there to join us ... this is a real pleasure for us,” said Chow.