PEKAN (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - For the first time in a long while, former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak marked the first day of Hari Raya in his home constituency.
It was a change of pace for him, having hosted open houses in Seri Perdana, Putrajaya, over the past few years.
"This Hari Raya is a bit different as we are no longer in government. Nevertheless, we have to continue giving our best service to the people who have given us their trust," he said.
"Many things have been said during the general election that may have hurt some feelings but I hope we can mend our ties during this festive season.
"Most importantly, our country is peaceful and our future is still good."
Groups of well-wishers turned up to greet Najib and his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor.
The couple did not appear to allow investigations into them to dampen the festive mood.
Najib and Rosmah were pleased to greet their guests and many of them took wefies with the couple.
Asked whether he missed celebrating Hari Raya at Seri Perdana, Najib said it was more of a matter of adjusting to new realities.
In previous years, it was customary for Najib to return to Pekan around the second week of Hari Raya.
Rather than the usual grand celebration at Taman Tasik Sultan Abu Bakar, Najib's open house at his Sri Kenangan residence this year was understated.
"I used to have duties as a prime minister and a minister, so I had to be in Kuala Lumpur or Putrajaya but this time, I return to Pekan as my loyal supporters are here. They have given me their trust to be an MP with a large majority.
"I am quite happy. They are also adjusting to me having a reception on the first day.
"We wanted to keep it modest compared to before," Najib said, adding that he decided to play host in a more homely atmosphere.
Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail and several state exco members were among those who dropped by for a visit.
Tengku Puan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah Sultan Iskandar and members of the Pahang royal family arrived later.
