THE ASEAN Navies’ City Parade (ANCP) returned to George Town today after more than three decades, marking the highlight of the Hari Buletin 4.0 organised in collaboration with the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM), at Padang Kota Lama which drew some 40,000 people.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the event not only strengthened regional ties but also gave the public an opportunity to witness the capabilities of ASEAN naval forces up close.
“Earlier this evening, before our main event set sail, we were treated to a series of lively stage performances by naval teams from Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore and the Philippines.
“I believe that, in addition to the special tours of all ten warships berthed here, this programme is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. In the spirit of our Penang2030 Vision, Hari Buletin has truly become a gathering that brings people from all walks of life together,” he said in his speech during the closing ceremony.
The parade, last held in George Town in 1990 during the International Fleet Review, was revived this year as part of the fourth edition of Hari Buletin.
Naval demonstrations, silent drills, marching bands and maritime exhibitions were among the highlights that drew thousands of visitors to the site.
Chow also praised the collaboration between the Information Unit of the Chief Minister’s Office and TLDM for successfully staging the event, which he described as an extraordinary experience for the public.
“This twin-track programme has not only boosted community participation but also given visitors a rare chance to witness naval assets and equipment up close,” he added.
Chow further expressed his appreciation to the Royal Malaysian Navy, participating ASEAN navies and the media for their support.
He also congratulated contest winners, including five lucky draw recipients, with a new motorcycle as the grand prize.
Other lucky winners walked away with 43-inch smart televisions and electric scooters.
Children who took part in the colouring competition had fun and went home with some prizes as well.
Earlier in the morning, Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Datuk Seri Utama Ramli Ngah Talib, accompanied by his consort Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah, graciously attended the ceremonial inspection of the guard of honour and naval band performance. Also in attendance were State Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang and wife Datin Seri Teoh Hooi Tuang, Chief of Navy Admiral Tan Sri Zulhelmi Ithnain and wife Puan Sri Zamzelina Ahmad, and other state dignitaries.
Various booths were also set up for the crowd to enjoy, with an award presented to the booth with the best design.
Also present during the closing ceremony were Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, state Environment and Housing Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, state Social Development, Welfare and Non-Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Kebun Bunga assemblyman Lee Boon Heng, Sungai Puyu assemblywoman Phee Syn Tze, and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.
Others included State Secretary Datuk Zulkifli Long, Royal Malaysian Navy deputy chief Vice Admiral Datuk Pahlawan Shamsuddin Ludin, Royal Malaysian Navy Commander of the Western Fleet Vice Admiral Datuk Baharuddin Wan Md Nor, Chief Minister’s senior confidential secretary Mohd Balkish Othman and State Communications Division director and Chief Minister’s press secretary Yap Lee Ying.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad & Siew Chia En
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi & Alissala Thian