Politicians today put on a show of bipartisanship to celebrate the Chinese New Year amidst a political environment that has seen deep partisan divides often along racial or religious lines.
In Kuala Lumpur, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad visited Gerakan's open house, re-embracing one of his practices back when he was BN chairperson.
Clad in red, Mahathir and wife Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali attended the event together with Economic Affairs Minister Azmin Ali and his wife.
Gerakan's former secretary-general Liang Teck Meng, who was displeased with the "most racist" prime minister being extended the invitation, had on Thursday mused that Mahathir might be greeted by boos.
The nonagenarian instead received a warm welcome from the 600 in attendance, giving him a standing ovation when he arrived.
Speaking to reporters later, Gerakan president Dominic Lau reiterated that it was the party's tradition and principle to invite the sitting prime minister to attend their festive celebrations.
He dismissed speculation that this was signal that he would be working together with the Pakatan Harapan government.
"We still position ourselves as a third force in the political arena [...] we fight for all, for fairness, irrespective of race, religion," he said.
Gerakan left BN in 2018 after the coalition was defeated in that year's general election while Mahathir left to join Pakatan Harapan in 2016 in a rebellion against then prime minister Najib Abdul Razak.
It was Mahathir's practice to alternate between attendings the Gerakan and MCA open houses back when he was BN chairperson.
MCA president Wee Ka Siong said his party had invited Mahathir to their Chinese New Year event this year as well but was informed by the Prime Minister's Office on Jan 13 that he could not make it.
Wee said an invitation had also been sent to all 222 MPs.
This year's Chinese New Year celebration at Wisma MCA marks the first time that PAS was in attendance with secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan, treasurer Iskandar Samad, central committee member Halimah Ali and Youth chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari present.
Takiyuddin said his Chinese New Year wish was for better racial unity in the country.
"I wish all Malaysians regardless of race and ethnicity work together for the betterment of our country.
"Politics may be suitable at certain times but not all the time. Most of the time have to struggle for the betterment of our future so good luck to everyone and we hope everyone will enjoy the betterment of the country," he told reporters.
Over in Sarawak, Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg graced the state Harapan's open house organised by Sarawak opposition leader Chong Chieng Jen who is also federal deputy domestic trade minister.
Sarawak deputy chief minister James Masing was in attendance, and according to Bernama, the political leaders engaged in a deep conversation.
"All the guests were very happy to see Abang Jo in attendance and I hope this new year will bring good luck to Sarawak so that it can be more developed," Chong was quoted as saying by Bernama.
The national news agency also reported that Abang Johari had attended the Harapan do after attending SUPP's open house. - Mkini
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