GEORGE TOWN: Weld Quay in Penang is buzzing with a hive of activities as thousands of ethnic Chinese of Hokkien origin ushered the Jade Emperor's birthday on Saturday (Feb 17) night.
The annual Thnee Kong Seh (Jade Emperor’s Birthday) celebration known as Bai Tian Gong in Mandarin was in its 117th year in Penang.
Thousands of people including tourists flock along the roadside of the centuries-old clan jetties from as early as 6pm to join in the festivities and to pay tribute to arch-deity said to rule the heaven.
Besides being entertained by cultural and dance performances at the main stage, the public was also sizzled with fireworks displayed by clan communities along the road throughout the night.
At about 11.15pm, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow arrived and was accompanied by Tanjung MP Lim Hui Ying.
Other guests of honour who attended the event were DAP supremo Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang, Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng and Chew Jetty chairman Chew Choon Seng.
Also present were state assemblymen and state leaders.
Chew in his opening speech said this year the communities hope the celebration will bring prosperity and peace to Penangites.
"Thanks to the state government for their continuous support and their effort in ensuring our state to be among the developed in the country," he said.
