JOHOR BARU, Feb 4 — Over 2,000 Chinese prayed at the iconic gates of Istana Bukit Serene here today for peace and prosperity at the start of spring in the Chinese calendar.
The scene this morning caught the attention of many motorists who slowed down to watch.
“HM Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, who was alerted about the gathering, personally came down from the palace to chat with the leaders of the group and ascertain what they were doing.
“The Ruler, who has always advocated religious tolerance and harmony under the ‘Bangsa Johor’ concept, permitted them to proceed with their meditations,” Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim’s Facebook page stated.
The Facebook post showed photos of people gathering at the entrance of Istana Bukit Serene.
The post stated that members of the group took off their footwear and stood barefooted on the grass patch surrounding the crown arch at the palace to meditate and offer prayers.
Chinese New Year falls on February 16.
