By V. Sivaji
Penang’s tourism, travel, hospitality and other stakeholders attended the lighting ceremony of the Chinese New Year decorations at the Esplanade.
The bamboo structure features a tunnel-like passage with colourful lights and of course multiple glowing rabbits in keeping with the Year of the Rabbit.
Members of the public and tourists can enjoy and take selfies and memorable photos with family and friends till Feb 14, 2023.
Present to perform the launching ceremony was the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Yeoh Soon Hin along with the ambassador of Chile to Malaysia, HE Diego Velasco von Pilgrimm and Penang Global Tourism (PGT) chief executive officer, Ooi Chok Yan.
Also present were state assemblyman for Pengkalan Kota, Daniel Gooi, Penang director for the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Jonathan Freddy Bagang, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region Director Shahrul Aman, Penang Island City Council secretary Dato A. Rajendran, Chief Minister of Penang Incorporated general manager, Datin S. Bharathi, MAH national VP Dato Khoo Boo Lim, Penang ATTAP chairman Dato Ch’ng Huck Teng, MAH Penang representative, John Kim among others.
“This year is the Year of the Rabbit and just like the rabbit, Penang tourism is set to reboot steadily yet excitingly as we enter another year. We begin with the setup of Chinese New Year Decoration here at Esplanade and Dataran Pemuda Merdeka on the mainland.
“To promote a healthier lifestyle and to provide an opportunity for friends and family to get together, we will also be having several fun runs during Chinese New Year, for example the 1st Avenue Penang Chinese New Year Run and MBSP CNY Run.
“Penang is the place to experience the diversity of multi-ethnic communities living together in harmony. It is reflected through our myriad architecture, cultural activities, festivities and cuisines especially this year.
“So, come, celebrate your Chinese New Year and Thaipusam here, the Penang lang style. Bring along your friends and family members here at Padang Kota Lama on 5th February for Chap Goh Meh Celebration. Let’s take photos and make memories here in Penang for this festive season simply because Penang is the best,” said Yeoh in his address.
