A total of 834 non-Muslim couples registered their marriages at the National Registration Departments (NRD) nationwide on the rare and special date of Dec 12, 2012, which will not occur for another century.

In Putrajaya, 114 couples registered their marriages in a festive atmosphere with their families and relatives at a mass wedding, themed 'Celebrate Love 121212', organised by the NRD.

It turned out to be even more special for 47 selected couples who exchanged their marriage vows in the presence of Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein and his wife Marsilla Tengku Abdullah.

Apart from cutting a 12-feet cake together, the newlyweds received mementos from Hishammuddin and Marsilla.

According to NRD, the special ceremonies were held at all state departments nationwide today.

"I congratulate NRD for finding ways to instill family values in this multi-racial community," said Hishammuddin, adding that such events should be continued.

Meanwhile, A.Suresh, 33, and his wife R.Satkuna Dewi, 32, said they chose the date for its unique significance, of occurring every 100 years.

"Furthermore, my wife's birthday is on April 12, and we're having our traditional ceremony on that day next year, so its even more special," said Suresh, an aircraft engineer.

Tham Yeou Ming, 29 and Chay Ley Keoh, 28, said, “indeed, we chose this special date after dating for seven years. We'll have our traditional wedding next year".

- Bernama