GEORGE TOWN: In Penang, seafront promenades, shopping malls and heritage spots came alive with music, lights and performances as the countdown to midnight drew near.
One of the biggest celebrations was at Straits Quay in Tanjung Tokong, where live band and dance performances including interactive games were hosted at the waterfront.
Many revellers arrived early to secure spots by the waterfront as the final minutes of 2025 ticked away, before fireworks lit up the sky at midnight.
Account executive Lim Wei Jie, 32, hoped the new year would bring better health and more time with his family.
“I just want things to be more balanced in 2026 and to spend more quality time with my family,” he said.
University student Nur Farah Izzati Mohd Azman, 21, said she was looking forward to new opportunities upon her graduation.
“I tried applying for jobs in the hospitality sector but many applications were rejected.
“With some part-time experience and up-skilling, I hope to land a job in Penang in 2026,” she said.
Elsewhere, Fort Cornwallis and Hin Bus Depot drew steady crowds, while Gurney Paragon, Gurney Plaza, Queens Waterfront, Auto-City and Ferringhi Bay also saw large turnouts.
