Coconuts being broken along Jalan Datuk Keramat.
DESPITE having a lower supply of coconuts this Thaipusam, devotees continued to uphold the ritual of smashing the fruit with unwavering faith.
Construction worker Tan Wei Keat said he was only able to obtain 200 coconuts this year, a sharp drop from the 800 he had obtained last year.
“I requested for more but the supplier told me that this year’s coconut yield was lower,” he said when met at Chulia Street, George Town, Penang.
As Tan has never missed taking part in the ritual, he continued performing it this year, praying for the health and safety of his family and friends.
Volunteers giving out free food and drinks to devotees.
Factory technician V. Jeyasilan said he and his family had been at Queen Street since 6am to pray and seek blessings from Lord Muruga.
In addition to his family’s well-being and his daughter’s academic success, Jeyasilan said he also sought divine blessings for a peaceful life this year.
E-hailing driver A. Karthigayan was spotted with his daughter, K. Gavinaya, waiting for the golden chariot at Jalan Magazine.
Karthigayan said this was the first time he had taken his toddler along with the rest of the family for Thaipusam celebrations.
“We brought her along today to get blessings from Lord Muruga so that she will be healthy for the rest of her life.”
The day before, the toddler had her head shaved to symbolise purification, new beginnings and blessings for good health.
The Thaipusam festival is not only a spiritual journey but also an opportunity for acts of kindness and community service.
Among some 40 volunteers along Jalan Datuk Keramat was Queenie Teoh, who was with friends and relatives distributing food and drinks to devotees.
“We have been doing this for 10 years and we plan to continue serving the public.”
Teoh added that this year, her volunteer group had been able to serve over 10,000 devotees.
She said she and her relatives used to smash coconuts during Thaipusam.
However, her late husband had suggested spending money on devotees’ food and drinks instead of buying coconuts.
“It is a collective effort of friends and family,” said Teoh, who set up her stall near a supermarket and departmental store.
On the eve of Thaipusam, devotees had filled the streets to witness the procession of the golden chariot carrying the spear of Lord Muruga.
At 6.20am on Thaipusam morning, the procession accompanying the golden chariot left Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple along Lebuh Queen for Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple along Jalan Kebun Bunga.
Elsewhere, the silver chariot carrying the Lord Muruga statue left Nagarathar Kovil Veedu Temple along Lebuh Penang at around 7.30am for Nattukotai Chettiar Temple, also on Jalan Kebun Bunga.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced in his Thaipusam address that the state government’s efforts last year to establish a direct flight between Penang and Chennai, India, had borne fruit.
As a result, a 51.43% increase in tourist arrivals from India had been recorded at Penang International Airport.
“The state government believes that these initiatives will lead to growth in the tourism sector.
“They will strengthen Penang’s position as a heritage tourism destination on the global stage.
“We expect a greater number of visitors from India in conjunction with the Thaipusam celebration next year,” he said.
Chow added that besides focusing on manufacturing, investment, business and agrotechnology sectors, Penang was all set for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
He said Thaipusam, like other festivals in Penang, was celebrated with local and international tourists thronging the state.
“This shows that Penang unites people and celebrates the diversity of races and religions.
“Amid rapid development, traditions and culture continue to flourish.”
