According to a Bernama report, Chow said the state has yet to receive any official circular from the chief secretary to the government to advise state governments against holding such events.

He also said that the open house, jointly organised by the office of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang and the state government, is part of a longstanding tradition to engage with the people. It has always been conducted modestly rather than lavishly, he added.

“Invitations have already been sent out. It too close (to change anything now),” he told reporters.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Putrajaya will not hold any open house for Aidilfitri and will reduce the number of trips abroad as part of a plan to cut costs in view of the economic impact of the Middle East conflict.

He also said that government-linked companies and government-linked investment companies have also been ordered not to hold Aidilfitri open houses.

Commenting on celebrations at departmental and agency levels, Chow suggested that they be held internally or as a potluck event to cut costs.

He also pointed out that open houses have a role in promoting racial unity, particularly amid attempts by extremist groups to sow division.

“This platform is essential to bring people together to nurture the spirit of unity. In an uncertain economic climate, small-scale events serve as spaces for the community to gather and celebrate together,” he added.