By V. Sivaji
The Oktoberfest 2025 is currently underway at the Malaysian German Society (MGS) premises in Penang, drawing a lively crowd eager to experience one of the most anticipated cultural celebrations of the year.
Guests turned up in full festive spirit, donning traditional Bavarian attire and joining in the merriment of authentic German music, food, and camaraderie.
The event was officiated by Guest of Honour, YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, and attended by Her Excellency Silke Riecken-Daerr, German Ambassador to Malaysia, along with former Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, Ms Carolinda Bieck, President of the Malaysian German Society, members of the diplomatic community and an enthusiastic crowd of festival-goers.
In his address, YB Wong Hon Wai expressed his delight in joining the celebration, commending MGS for its enduring contribution to Penang’s multicultural landscape.
“As we gather to honour German culture, friendship, and the vibrant community spirit that defines Penang, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to MGS for bringing us together for this special celebration,” he said.
“For over half a century, Oktoberfest has been celebrated here in Penang, making it the longest-running Oktoberfest event in Malaysia. This remarkable history reflects the strong bonds between the German community and the people of Penang, highlighting the depth of cultural exchange that continues to thrive in our city.”
Wong further noted that the festival’s enduring success had earned official recognition from George Town World Heritage Incorporated, designating Oktoberfest Penang as one of the state’s signature cultural events.
“This milestone symbolizes how German cultural traditions have become part of Penang’s rich cosmopolitan heritage,” he added.
Highlighting Penang’s role as a hub of international exchange, Wong also underscored the state’s diverse cultural calendar.
“In just these two months, Penang is hosting the Japanese Aki Matsuri, the Latin American Film Festival, and the China Sichuan Festival — each contributing to the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage and showcasing our openness as a community that embraces and celebrates diversity.”
On the economic front, Wong praised the strong and growing partnership between Penang and Germany, noting that German companies remain among the state’s top investors.
“Germany ranks among the top three foreign investors in Penang and is the largest from Europe. Around two dozen German multinational corporations operate here, providing tens of thousands of high-skilled, well-paying jobs for Penangites. Germans come to Penang for business, recreation, and even retirement — while more Malaysians are discovering Germany through education, training, and travel,” he said.
The evening concluded with the ceremonial opening of the festival, led by Wong and MGS members, followed by hearty toasts of “Prost!”
Guests were also treated to authentic German cuisine, traditional music by the “Oompah pah” band and a joyful celebration of friendship and cross-cultural unity.