GEORGE TOWN: Those attending the Wesak Day celebration and procession on Sunday (May 31) are prohibited from setting off firecrackers and fireworks, says Penang police chief Datuk Azizee Ismail.
"The act of playing with firecrackers and fireworks is completely prohibited, and any individual who disobeys can be prosecuted under Section 8 of the Explosives Act 1957," he said when contacted on Saturday (May 30).
In addition, the use of drones during the Wesak Day celebration is also not allowed unless approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM).
Attendees are also advised to refrain from wearing jewellery that could draw the attention of criminals and to maintain proper behaviour to avoid causing discomfort to others.
Azizee added that the public should plan their journeys in advance and use alternative routes to avoid getting caught in traffic congestion during the celebrations.
"The public is also advised to use public transportation to help with a smoother traffic flow.
“Meanwhile, road users are reminded not to park their vehicles by the roadside and to comply with the instructions of the officers on duty to ensure the smooth movement of vehicles," he said.
The main Wesak Day celebration in Penang will take place on Sunday, with over 15,000 Buddhists and visitors expected to attend.
23 decorated floats will enliven the procession in conjunction with this year's state-level Wesak Day celebration, themed "Bridging Through Digital, Cultivating Wisdom Together."
The lighting ceremony will take place on Saturday night.
Police previously announced that several roads will be closed in stages, starting from 6pm until the completion of the celebrations around midnight, to make way for the Wesak Day procession.
The procession route involves Jalan Burmah (start), Jalan Pangkor, Jalan Kelawai, Lorong Burmah, Jalan Burmah, Jalan Perak (against the flow of traffic), Lebuhraya Peel (against traffic flow), Jalan Macalister (against the flow), Jalan Perak (against the flow), Jalan Anson (against the flow), Jalan Macalister, Lorong Madras, and back to Jalan Burmah. – Bernama
