(From right) Chow, H’ng, Baderul Amin and Fadhlina painting a mural as part of the event. — Courtesy photo
Two-day event among efforts to boost redevelopment of Nibong Tebal town
THOSE living in Penang’s Seberang Perai Selatan, particularly folks in Nibong Tebal, have been urged to work together with the state government to empower the district.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said Nibong Tebal residents could drive growth in various sectors, such as tourism and agrotechnology.
“However, we must also continue to preserve and celebrate our arts, culture and heritage as a foundation of our identity,” he said in his speech at the second edition of the Nibong Tebal Festival.
Spread over two days, the event in Jalan Pasar Lama kicked off with great fanfare, attracting a diverse crowd.
Jointly organised by the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and Jawi constituency service centre, with support from the Penang government, the festival was launched by Chow.
He was joined by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek who is also the Nibong Tebal MP.
Penang local government, town and country planning committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, who is Jawi assemblyman, and MBSP mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid were also present.
In his speech, Chow said the festival aligned with the Penang2030 vision which emphasised empowering people and fostering active civic participation.
“It fills me with pride to witness the growth of this festival, which began last year and has now become an annual event.
“It attracts not only locals but also visitors from neighbouring states.
“This success reflects the hospitality of Nibong Tebal residents who welcome everyone with open arms,” Chow was quoted by state publisher Buletin Mutiara.
He also expressed hope that the event would be continued along with other major annual MBSP-organised festivals such as the Butterworth Fringe Festival aimed at promoting Seberang Perai.
Baderul said the festival was among MBSP’s efforts to boost the local economy and redevelopment of Nibong Tebal town.
“This festival focuses on various community programmes encompassing art, culture and heritage.
“Highlights were performances by local artistes, including a wayang kulit show by Wak Long Music & Art Centre, a drum circle by The Colour of Sounds, a lion dance by Hong Guan Academy, and chingay performances by Persatuan Chingay Seberang Perai,” he said.
Visitors also participated in Chinese calligraphy and batik drawing workshops, and traditional games.
They also enjoyed trishaw rides.
