By V. Sivaji
Penang’s much-loved Aki Matsuri celebration returns for its third edition on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Sunshine Central Penang.
The event details were announced earlier this morning at Komtar by YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, alongside H.E. Mr. Shinya Machida, Consul General of Japan in Penang.
The festival is proudly supported by the Penang Exco Office of Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE).
In his opening remarks, YB Wong expressed his delight at the return of Aki Matsuri, themed “Fall in Love with Japan.”
“Penang is the only state in Malaysia that hosts three major Japanese cultural events each year — the Yosakoi Parade, Bon Odori, and Aki Matsuri,” he said.
“In Japan, Aki Matsuri means the Autumn Festival — a time of gratitude and joy. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all sponsors and to the Consulate-General of Japan in Penang for their dedication and partnership.
Traditionally, this festival is celebrated from September to November after the rice harvest, when communities come together to give thanks for a fruitful year and to enjoy the beauty of autumn.”
He added that the festival embodies the best of Japanese culture — community spirit, harmony, and an appreciation of nature and tradition — and brings that same festive spirit to Penang.
In his remarks, Mr. Machida expressed his happiness at the growing appreciation of Japanese culture among Penangites and warmly invited everyone to join in the celebrations.
Also present at the press conference was Ms. Ooi Eng Ping, Event Coordinator, representing President Choo Shing Lai and the organizing team. She shared exciting details of the upcoming event:
“Visitors can look forward to a wide range of cultural workshops and interactive booths, including: Origami & Kirigami Workshop, Photography Workshop (by Canon), Simple Matcha Experience, Martial Arts Demonstration, Sushi-Making Workshop, Kimono Rental, Makeup & Hairdo, Face Painting, Japanese Food, Snacks & Beverages, Japanese Merchandise and also Station Games.
There will be 12 interactive stations, where participants can collect QR stamps as they visit or play. Collect six stamps to earn a chance to spin and win prizes! A total of 500 prizes will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis.”
Other highlights of Aki Matsuri 2025 include: Soran Bushi Dance Performance, Choir Performance – the largest Japanese choir performance in Penang, Karate Demonstration, Vocal Performances & Mini Concert, Aki Matsuri Dance Performances, Kimono & Yukata Modelling Showcase and many more exciting activities throughout the day.
Among those present at the press conference were Bryan Wong, Group Marketing Communications Manager of Sunshine Central; Yasuyoshi Kubota, Head of the Cultural Committee, Penang Japanese Association; Ms. Jane Hong, Communications Director, Texchem Resources Berhad; Daren Tan, Head of Branch, Canon Marketing; and Madam Etsuko Tanaka, Penang Japanese Saturday School Association, among others.