By V. Sivaji
The Penang Yosakoi Parade 2026 is back for its 11th edition from June 27 to 28 to be held at the Esplanade.
Growing from strength to strength, the event has become one of the biggest Yosakoi Parades in South East Asia.
Present to announce details of the gathering this time around was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai accompanied by Ms Emi Yamazaki, Organising Chairlady of the Penang Yosakoi Parade and her team members.
Having started in 2013, the celebration this time around will feature more itineraries and programmes for participants to partake and enjoy.
“Previously, Penang Yosakoi Parade was only held for one day but as support and participation having increased, the organisers decided to host it for two days.
“What started as a cultural initiative has grown into one of the most important Yosakoi events outside Japan. Today, as Yosakoi gains popularity across Southeast Asia with new events emerging in countries such as Singapore and beyond.
“Yet despite this growth, Penang Yosakoi Parade remains widely recognised as the most authentic and largest Yosakoi event in Southeast Asia. More importantly, it has become a respected platform for cultural exchange and artistic collaboration between Japan and Malaysia,” shared Wong.
He also added that in recognition of the dedication and efforts that have been invested over the past decade, the Governor of Kochi has granted Penang Yosakoi Parade the authority to present a special Governor’s Award to a participating team in Malaysia.
“For Penang and Malaysia, this recognition signifies that our Yosakoi community has earned a place on the international stage. One of the reasons for this success is the organisers’ commitment to building genuine relationships with Yosakoi communities in Japan.
Rather than simply inviting performers, the organisers have worked directly with leading Yosakoi teams to foster meaningful artistic collaboration. This year, we are honoured to welcome distinguished Japanese teams, including SoftBank and, for the second consecutive year, TOKIWA — the Grand Champion of the 2025 Kochi Yosakoi Parade,” added Wong.
Proceeds from the charity food fair will also go in aid of the Children’s Protection Society. A new project dubbed “Blue Santa” will also embark in the beach cleaning project around Esplanade in collaboration with MBPP.
Meanwhile, guests from Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines and Taiwan are expected to attend and participate.
For more information and programme, look up penangyosakoiparade.com