GEORGE TOWN: Penangites gathered in large numbers at the Esplanade on Saturday (August 31) morning to celebrate National Day.
In spite of the morning's downpour, crowds were spotted heading to Jalan Padang Kota Lama with their families in drenched attire and carrying umbrellas from as early as 7am.
The community enjoyed the festivities with their loved ones, proudly waving the Jalur Gemilang.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow made his appearance at the Esplanade for the celebration, themed 'Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka', at 8.25am.
Before Chow's arrival, state legislative assembly speaker Datuk Seri Law Choon Kiang and his wife Datin Seri Teoh Hui Tuang arrivedat 8.15am.
The proceedings started following the arrival of Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak and his wife Toh Puan Khadijah Mohd Nor at around 8.30am.
Also in attendance were Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Mohamad Abdul Hamid, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, and state executive councillors.
The parade started as Ahmad Fuzi inspected the guard of honour from the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, which included 3 officers and 103 other ranks under the leadership of Major Mohd Solleh Jamal.
Over 10,000 participants from 126 contingents are set to take part, with 106 groups comprising 7,190 participants marching on foot. Additionally, there will be 20 motorcades with 1,078 participants in 714 vehicles.
