Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today said there was nothing wrong with the practice of the "kongsi raya" celebration and that it should be continued.

Met by reporters after chairing the Barisan Nasional supreme council meeting in Kuala Lumpur this morning, he said the practice was not against any religion.

"It's actually a kind of social event that has grown popular and a favourite among all irrespective of their race, creed or colour," he said.

"Hence, we decide to continue (kongsi raya celebrations)," he added.

Abdullah said the Federal Government has always been the hosts for such joint-celebrations during festive occasions and it was considered "appropriate."

Perak Mufti Harussani Zakaria has suggested to the government that the 'kongsi raya' open house be reviewed due to fear that it could erode the faith of Muslims and lead to blasphemy.

Al-Arqam back?

However, Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Dr Rais Yatim, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Mohd Nazri Abdul Aziz and Perak Menteri Besar Mohammad Tajol Rosli Ghazali had backed the continuance of such joint celebrations.

Meanwhile, Abdulah said he was unaware of claims that religious deviant sect Al-Arqam is attempting to revive the movement , as reported by a private televison station yesterday.

"They are no longer (there) as far as I know [...] Jakim (Malaysia Islamic Development Department) and the Internal Security Ministry are monitoring their movement," he said

He hoped Al-Arqam head Ashaari Muhammad will not revive the movement because it has been banned by the government.