Datuk Mohd Nizar Najib, son of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, turned heads at a recent Chinese New Year celebration by donning a Qing Dynasty emperors robe. His striking attire was more than just a fashion statement it symbolized his message of cultural appreciation and unity.
In a Facebook post, Nizar shared that he attended the Closing Ceremony of the 2025 Chinese New Year Festival Programme alongside his wife, representing Pahang's Menteri Besar, YAB Dato Sri Diraja Haji Wan Rosdy bin Wan Ismail. The event was hosted by the Kuantan Chinese Opera Arts Association and saw the presence of notable figures, including YB Tuan Sim Chon Siang, Chairman of the Pahang State Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee, and YB Puan Leong Yu Man, Chairman of the Pahang State Unity, Tourism, and Cultural Committee.
Nizar's choice of traditional Chinese imperial attire quickly became a talking point online. While many applauded his effort in embracing Malaysia's multicultural identity, others debated the deeper meaning behind his costume selection. Some saw it as a genuine attempt to foster unity, while a few questioned its historical and cultural implications.
Regardless of differing opinions, Nizar emphasized the importance of harmony in his message. He expressed his hope that Pahang would remain free from elements that could divide the states multiracial society.
"May the state of Pahang remain harmonious and be protected from harmful elements that could divide our multiracial community here," he stated in his post, also extending warm Chinese New Year greetings to all.