PADANG BESAR: The Merdeka Keluarga Malaysia@Padang Besar carnival was a gift from the government in appreciation of the contribution and support from the ‘Malaysian Family’, says Datuk Zahidi Zainul Abidin.

“Thank you to the people of Padang Besar and Perlis for always giving their support and cooperation to the government, especially in the effort to curb the spread of Covid-19,” the Deputy Communications and Multimedia Minister told Bernama when visiting the Jom Kenal Bernama booth here yesterday.

Present to greet him at the booth was Bernama head of broadcasting (TV and radio) Arul Rajoo, who took the opportunity to brief the deputy minister on the services provided by the national news agency.

Zahidi, who is Padang Besar MP, said the Communications and Multimedia Ministry was actively involved in disseminating information on Covid-19, including advising the people on healthcare and vaccination, as well as wearing face masks.

“(The people’s contribution to helping the government should be appreciated,” he said.

He added that there were various interesting programmes at the carnival, including exhibitions by government agencies, esports, creative industry performances and the wayang pacak.

Visitors to the carnival also had the opportunity to enjoy nasi lengat prepared by Padang Besar residents.

Kampung Sena Luar Umno branch chief Mohd Khir Mahmud said the special dish was prepared by 40 people from Bukit Chabang Selatan, Kokmak, Seri Kesinal, Sena Luar and Felda Mata Ayer Utara Umno branches, who started cooking 1,500kg of rice since 6.30am.

“Nasi lengat is almost the same as nasi kukus (steamed rice), but it is easier and faster to pre- pare.

“It takes about 40 minutes to cook,” he said when met at the kenduri rakyat programme.

Other dishes included gulai daging batang pisang, fried chicken and acar.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/08/14/carnival-a-thank-you-from-govt-to-rakyat