Malaysian embassies worldwide cancel Aidilfitri open houses as part of a government directive to reduce public spending amid global economic pressures
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian diplomatic missions abroad have cancelled their planned Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house events. This follows a government directive to exercise greater prudence in public expenditure.
The Embassy of Malaysia in Washington, D.C. announced the cancellation of its event initially scheduled for March 20. In a Facebook notice, the embassy said it would not proceed in line with the government’s commitment.
Malaysia’s Embassy in Thailand also cancelled a Malaysian diaspora gathering planned for April. Counsellor Jarin Sijaya Abdul Hathi cited the need for prudent spending amid global economic uncertainty.
The High Commission of Malaysia in Bandar Seri Begawan has cancelled its open house scheduled for April 4. A notice stated the decision aligned with the government’s commitment to fiscal moderation.
Bernama has learned the embassies in Helsinki and Beijing will also not organise official open house events this year. The missions expressed appreciation for the community’s understanding.
They added that the missions remain committed to serving the Malaysian diaspora abroad. They also wished the public a blessed and meaningful Hari Raya Aidilfitri in advance.
The government’s cost-saving measures include not holding Aidilfitri open houses and limiting overseas trips. These steps underscore a commitment to more disciplined fiscal management.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement on Wednesday drew praise from various segments of society. Many described it as a proactive approach to reviewing non-critical spending.