By V. Sivaji
Despite the slight drizzle, throngs of people turned up at the Penang International Food Festival @ Tanjong. The event ends later today – Sunday November 3, 2024.
The food fest is being held along Beach Street showcasing some 100 booths, hotel outlets, food trucks along with the finest of Penang ‘s hawker fare.
Present was the Deputy Minister of Finance, Lim Hui Ying who is also the Member of Parliament for Tanjong and a host of dignitaries.
As a launching gimmick, Lim cooked up a plate of Char Keow Teow assisted by celebrity Chef Zam and welcomed all those who had turned out to celebrate the festival and partake in the food and delicacies on show.
“Welcome to the Penang International Food Festival @ Tanjong 2024, here on the beautiful Beach Street in George Town Penang.Penang is celebrated worldwide as a top tourist destination, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and world-class cuisine. Often called the “food capital of Malaysia,” Penang draws visitors from across the globe who come to experience its unique culinary landscape.
“Beyond the food, we have an exciting lineup of performances that celebrate our rich heritage. Enjoy the multicultural drum shows, local talent showcases, and impressive lion dances on stilts. For those who caught Chef Zam’s cooking demonstration, you now know some of his culinary secrets. Local celebrities Jestinna Kuan and Danny will perform along with live bands, cosplay, gamelan, fire juggling, and a special performance by Santesh Kumar”, she said in her address.
She also thanked all of the sponsors in making the event a great success.
Also present was the Deputy Minister of Communication YB Teo Nie Ching, State Exco of Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang Island City Council Mayor Dato A Rajendran, Bapak Wandon Sidaauruk, Consul-General Republic Indonesia in Penang, Madam Ding Qiao, Deputy Consul-General of China in Penang among others.
Lending support were booths by several hotels, namely, the Amari Spice Penang, Citadines Connect Georgetown and the Royale Chulan Penang.
Meanwhile, Wong thanked YB Lim Hui Ying and her team at the Tanjong Service Centre for their steadfast support in making this festival a success.
“This year, the Penang International Food Festival will be held in two locations: here at Tanjong today, and next weekend at Design Village, Batu Kawan, on the 9th and 10th of November.
“By featuring our local vendors, renowned chefs, and small businesses, we create a platform for growth, collaboration and shared success within our community. Each year, the festival draws new visitors and opportunities, enhancing our reputation as a global food destination.
“We are also proud to have two restaurants awarded One Michelin Star, 25 Bib Gourmand-recommended establishments and 34 Michelin Selected eateries. Our city’s mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan influences brings a distinctive flavor to our culinary offerings and street scenes.
Catch PIFF @ Tanjong is on today which from 5pm till 11pm.
