The women posing for a photo at the gurdwara in Penang. — Courtesy photos
VISITORS can look forward to vibrant Punjabi and Sikh cultural performances, traditional music and delicious cuisine at the Penang state-level Vaisakhi open house at the Esplanade on Saturday.
State non-Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said the event would be a great opportunity to learn more about Sikh traditions, values and contributions to Malaysia.
“Like other festivals, Vaisakhi is part of the state’s commitment to celebrating the diversity and community that define our beloved state of Penang.
Lim (centre), Santok (at Lim’s left) and other organising members with the event posters.
“Penang has always been a melting pot of cultures, religions and traditions.
“And the 21st state-level Vaisakhi open house will be a vibrant and inclusive celebration of that very spirit,” she said during a press conference at the Wadda Gurdwara Sahib in George Town, Penang.
Held annually to celebrate and share the essence of Sikh values with the wider community, this year’s festival promises to be another colourful and vibrant event, said Lim.
It will be jointly organised by Wadda Gurdwara Sahib and Penang Harmony Corporation from 6pm to 11pm.
Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak is due to grace the event, accompanied by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo.
In another development, Wadda Gurdwara Sahib president Datuk Santok Singh said RM3mil had been raised for the ongoing restoration of the 123-year-old temple – a Category One heritage building – in Jalan Gurdwara.
The full restoration is estimated to cost RM6.8mil.
“On behalf of the temple’s conservation and restoration committee, we appeal to the public for continued support as we aim to complete the project by the end of the year.
“If all goes according to plan, we hope to host next year’s Vaisakhi open house right here at the gurdwara,” he said.
It is understood that the project is now 45% complete.
