EXCITEMENT is building in Penang ahead of Chinese New Year, with locals eagerly anticipating the Penang Chinese New Year celebration, or Miao Hui (Temple Festival), on Feb 1.
In the run up to the festival, several streets within the George Town heritage enclave have been adorned with some 2,000 red lanterns.
Strung across poles and buildings, the lanterns light up the night with a bright amber glow, creating a warm and inviting environment.
Event master planner, Chong Jian Mei, said over 300 lanterns were put up in Armenian Park, where a stage and decorations had been erected.
“The lanterns are turned on from 7pm to midnight daily until the end of Chinese New Year.
“During the Miao Hui event, a total of 12 roads will be closed to traffic.
“At least 21 clan houses within the heritage enclave have agreed to open their doors to visitors.
“We are expecting a crowd of about 200,000 at the event,” Chong said.
Chong hopes the event themed “Penang Lang, Let’s Celebrate!” will attract locals to return and celebrate the festival.
Among visitors to the park who were mesmerised by the sight were 50-year-old housewife Lau Lay Peng from Jelutong with her husband and their three children aged between 10 and 15.
“It has been a tradition to celebrate Chinese New Year in Penang as my parents live with us.
“With nine siblings among us, about 40 family members from different parts of the country will return this year.
“We are always excited when Chinese New Year is approaching, and it is coming early this year,” she said.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said, “The Miao Hui event has always adhered to the original intention of promoting and inheriting culture, and we have witnessed the people’s love for culture, persistence in tradition and dedication to the community.
“We believe that Penang has a rich cultural heritage and behind every cultural treasure is a story of the Penang people.
“Through a variety of activities and exhibitions, we can showcase Penang’s profound cultural heritage and revitalise traditions,” he said in his speech at the lighting-up ceremony for the 26th edition of the event.
Also present were Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, consul general of China in Penang Zhou Youbin and Penang Chinese Clan Council chairman Ho Swee Choon.
The annual Miao Hui event aims to showcase the rich heritage of Penang’s Chinese community through traditional performances including lion dances, Chinese opera and cultural demonstrations such as calligraphy, paper-cutting, and tea ceremonies.
Visitors can also enjoy street parades, traditional food and interactive activities that celebrate the diversity and history of Chinese traditions.
