Kuala Lumpur: The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah today graced a lunch gathering hosted by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) in conjunction with the Chinese New Year (CNY) celebration. The Selangor ruler's arrival at the venue was warmly welcomed by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil and Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, during the luncheon, Sultan Sharafuddin also participated in the tossing of 'Yee Sang', one of the popular CNY dishes. Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching, the ministry's secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din were in attendance.

Also present were Bernama chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, executive editor (International News Service) Mohd Shukri Ishak, and head of TV Norhamzeela Md Hambali. In his opening remarks, Wong expressed gratitude for Sultan Sharafuddin's presence, noting its significance for Bernama as it coincided with the ruler's visit to the news agency's headquarters on the same date last year.

Wong recalled the memory of the visit, stating that it remains significant for the agency, and extended gratitude to Sultan Sharafuddin for his continued support and guidance to Bernama and media practitioners in Malaysia. He also expressed personal appreciation for the ruler's guidance and advice.

Other guests at the gathering included senior editors from various media organizations. They were entertained by traditional songs played on the 'yangqin,' a traditional Chinese hammered dulcimer, and the 'erhu,' a two-stringed bowed instrument, both known for their expressive melodies.

The Chinese New Year, ushering in the Year of the Snake, will be celebrated on January 29. According to the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Snake symbolizes intelligence and wisdom.