Najib Razak and his cabinet ministers welcomed about 75,000 local and foreign visitors at the Aidilfitri open house held at the prime minister's official residence, Seri Perdana, Putrajaya today.

The open house, beginning 10.50am saw huge crowds patiently queuing up since 9am. It ended at 4pm.

Also playing host, besides Najib and his wife Rosmah Mansor, were Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Said Keruak, International Trade and Industry Minister Mustapa Mohamed, Tourism and Culture Minister Nazri Abdul Aziz and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Joseph Entulu Belaun.

As soon as the gates were opened, the Seri Perdana grounds were transformed into a sea of people who took the opportunity to greet and take photographs with Najib, who appeared resplendent in a maroon Baju Melayu.

The heat of the sun did not melt the enthusiasm of the people from all walks of life who had waited patiently and eagerly to exchange Aidilfitri greetings with the prime minister, deputy prime minister and the other ministers.

Earlier, the prime minister expressed happiness at the people's response to the open house, saying the presence of thousands of people from the various communities helped foster greater national solidarity and harmony.

Although Najib appeared exhausted after a long day entertaining guests who visited his official residence, he still managed to mingle with the large crowd which attended the ceremony.

Despite the scorching sun, there was a never-ending stream of visitors, including foreign tourists, at the open house. They were screened for safety and security reasons due to the militant threat against the country.

Diplomats and leaders from both sides of the political divide, as well as NGO representatives, also came to the open house.

The well-wishers were served a variety of food, mostly local delicacies such as satay, rendang, lemang, ketupat and nasi himpit, and those leaving after the meal also received a goodies pack while children were given 'duit raya' cash packets.

- Bernama