Open house celebration
By Achong Tanjong

The Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister's Office, Dato Paduka Haji Dani and wife, with former District Officer Dato Paduka Haji Kassim at Mr. Lim's house

Dato Paduka Haji Dani (6th from right) and other senior government officials at Mr. Jackson Ting's house

Members of the non-Chinese communities in the country continue to go to the open house invitations extended by their Chinese hosts as celebrations for the Year of the Monkey entered its second day yesterday.

The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China is holding the Chinese New Year Open House today (January 24) in his residence at No.40 Jln. Elia Fatima Kg. Kiarong. The open house starts from 3.00pm to 7.00pm.

Foreign diplomats who held the Chinese New Year Open included the Vietnam Ambassador to Brunei, Mr. Ha Hong Hai, who hosted guests at his residence in Gadong on the first day of the New Year.

On the same day, the representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brunei held an Open House at No.45, Simpang 100, Kampung Pengkalan, Jalan Tungku Link.

The open house concept has been a tradition not only among the Malays (Hari Raya) but the Chinese communities in the country.

This shows that the joys of every festivity are shared together to strengthen the spirit of close relationship and unity among all races in the country. The celebration is an opportunity to share new ideas, meeting old and new friends.

During the open house, guests are treated to good food and children get red packets, or Ang Pow, containing lucky money to bring home.

Most of the senior government officials, including ministers, as well as foreign diplomats in the country went visiting to open houses on the first day of the Chinese New Year.

The atmosphere of the celebration mood was heightened with performances by the Lion Dance troupe from the Chung Hwa School BSB and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

Meanwhile, the Royal Brunei Police in a recent press statement advised members of the public to take precautionary measures during the festivities.

According to the Police, the precautionary steps are necessary to prevent any criminal elements from ruining their properties during the festivity.

They also advise members of the public to always ensure that the doors and windows are properly locked and secured and to leave some lights on at night, especially when no one is at home.

Occupants should tell neighbours or relatives when they leave the house, so the latter could keep a watchful eye on the property, police said.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin