KUALA LUMPUR (THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - Malaysia Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is keeping mum on the date when the general election will be held.

A reporter posed the question on the sidelines of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) Chinese New Year Open House celebrations on Friday (Feb 16).

"When, when ... when do you want it?" the prime minister told the reporter who asked if a date had been decided on, drawing laughter from media personnel jostling for his reply.

The Parliament's five-year term expires on June 24 and a general election must be held within 60 days of Parliament's dissolution, which means a latest date of Aug 23.

Earlier, Datuk Seri Najib extended his Chinese New Year greetings to the nation's Chinese community and those celebrating all over the country and world.

"I hope this Chinese New Year brings good tidings to all," he said.

He also reiterated Malaysia's support for China's One Belt One Road initiative when asked on it.

"It is a good initiative and we fully support it.

"Malaysia is very much a part of the Belt and Road Initiative," he added.

Mr Najib and his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor and guests were treated to local delicacies and performances during the open house festivities.