Since most of us cannot travel to see the world, the wonders of the world have now come to Penang.
The “Penang Brings the World to your Doorstep” display of creative sculptures is a showcase of 23 large-scale traditional lanterns handcrafted by 100 professional lantern masters.
These lanterns resemble various famous landmarks and cultures found in countries and regions such as China, Japan, the United States, England, United Arab Emirates, India, France, Australia and Africa.
These creative sculptures aim to foster better community bonds and stronger social cohesion among Malaysians by acknowledging the unity, determination and resilience of its people in the ongoing battle against COVID-19 and to inspire hope for the future.
They also aim to provide Penangites and Malaysians with a meaningful activity even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, where global travel restrictions and health concerns threaten to dampen the mood. At the same time, it is aimed to promote Penang as a hub for cultural and community events in the region.
On hand to launch the latest attractions at the Esplanade was Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and State Tourism and Creative Economy Yeoh Soon Hin.
The initiative is part of Penang State Tourism’s efforts to spur its tourism industry as well as to bring festive cheer to its people during the fasting month and the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
The main highlights of the display of creative sculptures are “Hari Raya”, “Wildlife”, “Panda Wonderland”, and “It’s A Small World”. The “Hari Raya” display at the main stage features two majestic camels, so our Muslim friends can snap Ramadan and Raya photographs to remember the occasions.
At the “Wildlife” section, a 5-metre-tall giraffe represents Penang reaching for greater heights and a better future, while the majestic lion represents courage and strength in the face of adversity. Over at “Panda Wonderland,” one can find adorable pandas wearing face masks and keeping a safe distance from one another.
It demonstrates Penangites’ tenacity and resilience to remain optimistic in the face of the pandemic. Finally, those who miss traveling the world may find the right cure for their wanderlust at the “It’s A Small World” section, where eight sets of lanterns depicting scenes and popular tourist attractions from various countries, including England, Japan, Australia and France, await.
“As we continue to spur the tourism economy in the new normal, we need to stimulate domestic tourism and sustain our local businesses through various creative ventures. One of them is through this “Penang Brings the World to your Doorstep” display of creative sculptures.
“Recognising the fact that travelling is restricted at the moment due to the closure of borders, the Penang State Government is keen to spread festive cheer all around during this fasting month and upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri by bringing the world to its people through these gorgeous sculptures”. said Chow in his address.
Other attractions include the giant camels and iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, London Bridge and Eiffel Tower.
So, drop by the Esplanade with family and friends to take in the sights and scenery of the new attractions.
