It was a 'clear' Christmas this year
Wednesday, 27 December 2006 (Source: New Straits Times)

KUALA LUMPUR: Christians in the country celebrated Christmas amid uncertain weather conditions. Nevertheless, it was joy all round at functions and churches.

Thousands attended Deputy Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Joseph Pairin Kitingan's open house at the KDCA building in Penampang, Sabah, on Monday with many trying to shake hands with Santa Claus and Santarina.

Pairin, who is Parti Bersatu Sabah president, also took time out to host Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah and wife Toh Puan Dayang Masuyah Awang Japar who attended the celebration.

"This is a time for everyone, regardless of ethnic and religious background, to greet and forgive each other," Pairin said.

He said unity and harmony in the state had allowed the government to implement its development programmes without a hitch.



Others at Pairin's open house were Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Yahya Hussin and ministers in the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili and Tan Sri Bernard Dompok.