By V. Sivaji
Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai along with Penang Global Tourism (PGT) CEO, Ooi Chok Yan accompanied by a host of state assemblymen and women led the announcement ceremony of events and programmes for this upcoming Chinese New Year.
The Year of the Horse will be celebrated with much gusto and enthusiasm as a large number of visitors are expected to throng the state.
In hi opening remarks, Wong said that with Chinese New Year 2026 is just around the corner, and the festive atmosphere of the Chinese New Year is gradually taking over both Penang Island and Seberang Perai.
“As we approach the Spring Festival, Penang is already adorned with vibrant decorations, filling the city with a strong sense of celebration.
“During the Chinese New Year period, Penang will host a wide array of festive activities. These include events organised by the state government, local associations, temples, and private groups, offering a vibrant mix of celebrations across the region.
“To help both residents and visitors from Malaysia and abroad easily access information about these events, the Penang state government has compiled a comprehensive activity guide, encouraging families and friends to explore and join in the festivities across the state,” said Wong.
Among the much sought after are shopping for Chinese New Year goods, attire and other essentials.
“Two Tow Boo Kong Temples in Butterworth have already launched their New Year night markets, attracting large crowds and providing convenient opportunities for shoppers. Meanwhile, shopping malls across Penang are beautifully decorated with festive themes, offering shoppers special promotions and opportunities to take photos amid the seasonal installation arts, adding to the vibrant pre-holiday atmosphere,” he said.
Other festivities include the festive lantern displays where in the Bukit Mertajam’s Pek Kong Cheng area, the temple is illuminated with a spectacular array of red lanterns. This year, fish-shaped lanterns have been added to create a striking “Leaping Fish” display. In Butterworth, Jalan Raja Uda will be lit up with thousands of lanterns this Sunday evening, creating a dazzling spectacle.
“On Penang Island, 1,635 red lanterns have been hung along the streets of George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, creating a breathtaking cityscape. Additionally, the colorful lights and lanterns of Kek Lok Si Temple will be officially lit at 7pm on 13 February 2026, creating a serene and majestic spectacle that combines solemnity with tranquillity,” added Wong.
Other highlights include the Temple Fairs (Miao Hui), Worship of the Jade Emperor (Pai Thee Kong), Flame Watching Ceremony, Chap Goh Meh and a host of other activities.
Penang’s Chinese New Year celebrations extend beyond these signature events, with activities such as CNY fun runs, community gatherings, parades, and large-scale “YuSang” tossing (Lou Sang). Visitors can enjoy immersive experiences, whether participating in the festivities or simply soaking in the seasonal atmosphere.
In conjunction with the Chinese New Year festive period, Penang Global Tourism, in collaboration with Penang tourism industry partners, has launched the 2026 Penang Chinese New Year Travel Deals. These special offers allow visitors to experience the festive charm of Penang at more attractive prices.
Those interested may visit the following website for more information:
“In all, Penang hosts over 30 festive activities throughout the Chinese New Year period. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a vibrant, culturally rich, and joyous festive season. Visiting Penang during the Chinese New Year is an ideal way to experience Malaysia’s multicultural celebrations firsthand. This harmony among diverse communities reflects the city’s warmth and authenticity,” added Wong.