KOTA KINABALU: After a two-year hiatus, Sabah leaders will welcome the public to their Christmas and New Year open houses today.

Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), led by its president Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili, will hold its open house at the Hakka Hall here from 10am to 1pm.

Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick, the incoming Upko president, will host his ministry’s open house at the Penampang Cultural Centre between 10.30am and 2.30am.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is expected to attend both open houses.

PBS secretary-general Datuk Julita Majungki said they are holding the annual open house for the first time in two years.

“After two years of ‘rest’ due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this year we decided to hold this joyous celebration with the people.

“Apart from various cuisines, there will be carolling and performances to entertain our guests,” Majungki said in urging the public to join in the festivity.

Benedick said his ministry is hosting the Christmas open house with the aim of getting the agencies under it to be closer to the people of Sabah, especially Penampang.

“We have arranged various interesting programmes for the event including a performance of Christmas songs as well as exhibitions by agencies and the ministry.

“It is my hope that such programmes will be a good start to realising the government’s agenda to strengthen understanding and unity among multiracial Malaysians,” he added.