Govt agrees to additional public holiday for Raya, says Anwar

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PUTRAJAYA (THE STAR) – There will be an additional public holiday in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The prime minister said this is to allow the public to make travel plans and to prepare for the festivities.

“Should the first day of Syawal fall on Friday, April 21, then public holiday will be on Monday, April 24.

“If the first day of Syawal is on Saturday, April 22, the government has determined that Friday, April 21, is a public holiday,” he said yesterday.

The additional public holiday is based on Section 8 of the Holidays Act 1951 for Peninsular Malaysia and also Labuan.

Anwar said that for Sabah and Sarawak, state governments can declare the date for public holiday accordingly.

“The government remains committed to ensure the welfare of the people will be looked after in all aspects,” he added.

Malaysia Prime Minister Datuk Anwar Ibrahim. PHOTO: THE STAR