Their Majesties Sultan Ibrahim and Raja Zarith Sofiah, the King and Queen of Malaysia, today hosted a grand Hari Raya Aidilfitri reception at Istana Negara. The royal event served as a significant gathering of the nation’s top leadership and international representatives, celebrating the festive season within the palace grounds. Before the commencement of the reception, Their Majesties joined congregants to perform the Aidilfitri prayers at the Istana Negara Main Surau, marking the start of the religious festivities.
The reception was attended by a distinguished guest list led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his spouse, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail. Also in attendance were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, alongside various other Cabinet ministers. The event further highlighted Malaysia’s international ties, with members of the foreign diplomatic corps representing nations such as the United Kingdom, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Indonesia present at the gathering.
Among the more than 600 invited guests were several high-ranking government and judicial officials, including Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul. The legal fraternity was represented by Chief Justice Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh, while the media industry saw the attendance of Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai and editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj. The diverse assembly reflected a cross-section of Malaysian public life and administration.
Guests at the palace were treated to a spread of traditional culinary delights, with a particular focus on Johor specialties such as kacang pool and sup tulang merah. Other festive staples including lemang, ketupat, rendang, and nasi beriani were also served to the attendees. The celebratory mood was further enhanced by musical performances from the Royal Malaysia Police Quintet Band, who delivered a selection of classic Hari Raya songs throughout the afternoon.
A special highlight of the reception was a performance by veteran singer Datuk DJ Dave, who also serves as the chairman of Yayasan Kebajikan Artis Tanahair. During the event, Their Majesties spent time mingling with the guests, personally exchanging festive greetings with the attendees in a display of royal warmth. The successful hosting of the reception at Istana Negara underscores the palace’s role as a central pillar for national unity and cultural celebration during Malaysia’s most significant holidays.
