CHINESE NEW YEAR DO IN ABU DHABI

By Muin Abdul Majid

DUBAI, Feb 21 (Bernama) -- The compound of the Malaysian Embassy in Abu
Dhabi overflowed with visitors as Malaysians working and residing in the United
Arab Emirates (UAE) came together to celebrate a belated Chinese New Year
on Friday.

On hand to welcome them were Malaysian Ambassador to the UAE Yahaya Abdul
Jabar, his wife, Saedah Sanip, and other staff of the mission.

"The spirit of unity and camaraderie is very much alive here," the envoy
said as the estimated 1,500 Malaysians of the various races, many with their
children in tow, took the opportunity to catch up with friends and strike up
new friendships.

The long lines at the buffet spread proved that Malaysian favourites
continue to be a magnet at such gatherings.

Yahaya attributed the big turnout to the event being organised on a Friday,
a public holiday in this Gulf nation, that allowed people to go out and enjoy
their day off.
-- BERNAMA