THE grand finale of the Chinese New Year festivities came alive at the Esplanade Seafront Promenade as thousands gathered to celebrate Chap Goh Meh in a vibrant showcase of culture, tradition and community spirit on March 3.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the celebration marked a meaningful close to the 15-day Chinese New Year festivities, which saw the state brimming with colour, lights and festive energy.
“Tonight, we gather to celebrate Chap Goh Meh 2026, the grand finale of the Chinese New Year. For the past fifteen days, Penang has been alive with colour, lights, music and celebration.
“From the first day of Chinese New Year until tonight, we have seen families reunite, communities come together, and our streets filled with festive energy,” he said during his speech at the celebration held at the Esplanade on March 3.
Wong noted that the festive season was marked by strong participation across the state, with around 30 major festive events held across Penang Island and Seberang Perai, alongside more than 100 community-based celebrations.
“These celebrations reflect our rich cultural heritage and our people’s dedication to keeping traditions alive,” he said, pointing to popular attractions such as the annual light display at the Kek Lok Si Temple.
The exco man also highlighted Penang’s recent international recognition, noting that the Esplanade Seafront Promenade and seawall received the 2025 Unesco Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation under the New Design in Heritage Contexts category, with Special Recognition for Sustainable Development.
“This recognition affirms Penang’s heritage excellence on the international stage,” he said.
Chap Goh Meh holds special significance in Penang due to the well-known mandarin orange tossing tradition rooted in Peranakan culture.
Wong explained that the tradition dates back generations when Nyonya maidens would toss oranges into the sea, inscribed with their names or wishes, in hopes of finding love and good fortune.
“Today, the tradition continues not only as a symbol of romance but also as a reminder of Penang’s unique cultural identity,” he added.
Beyond cultural celebrations, Wong said the state is also seeing positive momentum in tourism as the nation enters Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
He revealed that Penang’s connectivity with China has expanded significantly, with new direct flights launched from Chinese cities in the first four months of the year.
“This shows strong confidence from the Chinese market and reflects Penang’s growing attractiveness as a tourism and business destination,” he said.
Wong also noted improvements at the Penang International Airport, including facility upgrades and the activation of the MyNIISe auto-gate system ahead of the Chinese New Year period.
“Since the introduction of the system, immigration clearance has become faster and smoother. Many travellers have shared positive feedback online, describing the process as efficient and surprisingly quick,” he said.
He stressed that efforts to preserve cultural heritage while enhancing infrastructure and connectivity are part of Penang’s long-term tourism strategy.
“We want visitors not only to enjoy our festivals, but also to experience convenience, efficiency and genuine hospitality from the moment they arrive,” he said.
As the festive season drew to a close with a spectacular fireworks display, Wong expressed appreciation to the organisers, community groups, industry players and volunteers who contributed to the successful celebration.
“Chap Goh Meh marks the end of Chinese New Year, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter. As we move further into Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Penang will continue to strengthen its position as a leading tourism destination in the region,” he said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En