Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad was served with a rare Chinese tea, meant for ancient emperors, at the National Day special assembly comprising 120 Chinese organisations today.

The semi-fermented tea, originated from China and a member of the Oolong tea family, is known as 'Red Robe' among tea-lovers.

According to Chinese folklore, the tea became well known after it was said to have saved the life of an ailing emperor.

The ceremony this evening started with the performance of a lion dance, followed by rendition of the national anthem Negaraku.

Another patriotic song, Jalur Gemilang, was then performed by primary students followed by chants of "Hidup Dato Seri!" (Long Live, Dato Seri) by a packed audience.