LETTER | It was reported that the prime minister has "decided with the cabinet that all government agencies and GLCs will not be organising open house celebrations".

This move supposedly is in view of the precarious global outlook and therefore prudent measures are being considered by our premier.

However, I believe the public's questions on this move do have reasonable traction.

For starters, how much money will be saved from these cancelled open houses? Will it have considerable impact in comparison to the losses arising from mismanagement within GLCs, that are well documented in the auditor-general's annual reports in recent years?

We are bleeding as a nation owing to the prevalent corrupt culture in the country. Is the savings from not spending for open houses a significant Pareto Principle outcome?

If captains of GLCs, ministers and MPs are willing to donate their March remunerations, would it not help defray costs incurred for holding open houses?

In view of the potential hardships affecting citizens' livelihood and cost of living (possible hyperinflation), would cancelling open houses balance the equation most favourably or should the government instead buckle up to ensure strict enforcement and vigilance over unscrupulous traders, manufacturers and retailers instead?

Bringing people together

Malaysians have long treasured the power of goodwill during the major festivals of a multi-ethnic society.

Holding open houses always brought the multiracial and multireligious population together, embracing that spirit of goodwill (muhibah) that actually fuels nationhood.

So, do we want to literally “ban” the 2026 open houses coinciding with this year's Chinese New Year and Hari Raya just to showcase a seemingly prudent cost-cutting measure by the leadership?

Couldn't the government think out of the box like having a potluck or less lavish open houses, or better, invite captains of GLCs, ministers and MPs to donate their March pay or portions of their annual perks to cash in on this spirit of goodwill during festivities?

Are we to believe that the elite and privileged are not spending money to host open houses in their homes for their own network of friends and accomplices?

Hopefully the government, and the prime minister, if need be, could enlighten us further for a buy in on the cabinet's decision.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.