TAIPING: Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah and Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim graced the state Chinese New Year celebration at Dataran Warisan Taiping here, today.
Present were Raja Muda Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa, Raja Puan Besar Perak Raja Nazhatul Shima Sultan Idris, Raja Dihilir Perak Raja Iskandar Dzulkarnain Sultan Idris and Raja Puan Muda Perak Tunku Soraya Abdul Halim Shah.
Also present were Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, state secretary Datuk Ahmad Suaidi Abdul Rahim and state executive councillors.
Despite the heavy rain, thousands of people attended the event, which saw guests from all walks of life being treated to an array of dishes and entertained by lion dance and musical performances.
Their royal couple also participated in the tossing of "yee sang" with Saarani and royal entourage.
In his speech, Saarani said the Year of the Dragon, which is considered a symbol of courage, strength, luck, wealth and success, brings with it dreams, hopes and ambitions to experience a more prosperous and happy life.
He said these universal values and principles could inspire people to work together to make 2024 a glorious year.
"Although there are many economic indicators that suggest 2024 will be a challenging year, my colleagues in the government, invite all of us to be optimistic and join hands to strengthen the foundations of our state's economy, to jointly create space and opportunities, so that Perak remain a prosperous and resilient state.
"I believe with the spirit of harmony and togetherness, as well as excellent cooperation between the state and federal governments, we can develop a peaceful and stable state, so that people regardless of race can continue to share sustenance, prosperity and success.
"In conjunction with this happy day, I call on all of us to strengthen the spirit of togetherness between us; strengthen the bond of unity among us; strengthen the bond of cooperation among us; and nurture the value of loving each other, so that we can maintain the peace and harmony that we have built over the years," he said in his speech.
Saarani also urged the people to avoid any actions that may cause suspicion and prejudice, avoid issues that could kindle the flames of hatred and enmity and reject sentiments that could lead to division.
"Thanks to the continued concern and guidance from Your Majesty, all members of the government administration will continue to work together, consolidate efforts to maintain stability, and promote progressive state policies, so that every mission, idea and target we outline in the Perak Sejahtera 2030 plan, we will succeed," he added.
