One of the coolest things about traveling the world looking for the best countries to retire is getting to see local festivals. Last night fireworks were going off all around thearea, and this morning I got a chance to attend the prime minister’s open house for Hari Raya. Hari Raya marks the end of one month of fasting for Ramadan. It’s a day forbidden to fast. The prime minister opens his house up and invites a few close personal friends like myself for lunch.
I got to shake his hand after standing in line, and see the house. Other members of the cabinet were also there. It reminded me of being in the worlds largest wedding reception line. Sorry about the photo quality they had a strict no selfie rule.
Then at the end you even get given some cookies!
Then remember Hari Raya is a feast day and that this invite was an invitation to lunch? And that there was no fasting? You actually get served a big spread. I was awestruck by the largesse. I expected the Malaysian equivalent of a hot dog and a can of coke. This is what I got instead.
Grilled cuttlefish
Fried tofu
All put together gorgeously.
There were delectable crispy dessert tacos
A close up of the crispy sugary taco!
Donair station.
All you can eat spread.
Roast Goat?! I tried it. And yup I still hate every form of goat. My friends liked it though.
Here is a list of the full menu.
The crazy thing is this meal was available to all 70,000 people that showed up. There was a VIP area, which was air conditioned and had no lineups, but everybody got the same food (I snuck into the VIP area and ate in there, heh heh).
I truly have never seen a government event so well attended, free and fun! If you’re in Kuala Lumpur during Hari Raya you should add to this to your best countries to retire cheap bucket list.
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