THE Penang government has pledged to increase its contribution to the Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Temple from RM200,000 to RM240,000 to support the organisation of this year’s Thaipusam celebration, in conjunction with the 240th anniversary of the festival in Penang.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the increased allocation after the temple’s chairman, Kumarathiraviam Kasinathan, highlighted the milestone during his preceding speech at the temple grounds in Waterfall Road today, drawing applause from the crowd.
Chow also extended his appreciation to the Penang Hindu Endowment Board, chaired by Jelutong MP R.S.N. Rayer, and the entire organising committee for their meticulous planning in ensuring the success of this year’s Thaipusam celebration.
He said the state government remains committed to supporting PHEB, including the provision of an annual RM2 million grant as an ongoing commitment to safeguarding houses of worship, while strengthening social development, human capital growth and the well-being of the Hindu community in the state.
“Thaipusam is a religious festival of great importance, rich in tradition and deeply significant to the Hindu community.
Since yesterday, Penang has welcomed devotees and visitors from within and outside the country in conjunction with the Thaipusam celebration. According to estimates by the temple committee, nearly one million visitors are expected to be present for this religious event. On behalf of the Penang State Government, I warmly welcome everyone to the Pearl of the Orient,” Chow said.
As in previous years, Chow took part in a walkabout session along Jalan Utama to Jalan Kebun Bunga yesterday, observing the rows of carefully prepared and vibrantly decorated thanneer panthals (refreshment stations).
He noted that the active participation of local traders, private companies and industry players clearly demonstrates how religious celebrations can serve as catalysts for community economic development, particularly for small and medium enterprises, in line with the inclusive development agenda of the Penang2030 vision.
On the proposed ‘People Mover Project’ at Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Temple aimed at facilitating movement, particularly for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs) and those in need, as announced last year, Chow said the appointed company has conducted a feasibility study involving three proposed design options.
The findings of the study have since been presented to PHEB for further consideration.
Chow also shared that the Thaipusam procession has been listed among 16 items of recognised intangible cultural heritage.
The Gazette Declaration for recognition has been submitted to the State Legal Adviser’s Office for the process of official gazettal.
“The state government has taken the initiative to elevate this heritage item as a State Heritage, not only for preservation and conservation purposes, but also to promote it to the multi-ethnic society within and beyond Penang. Congratulations!” Chow added.
Also present were Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying, National Unity Deputy Minister Yuneswaran Ramaraj, Jelutong MP and Penang Hindu Endowments Board (PHEB) chairman R.S.N. Rayer, Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh, and PHEB deputy chairman Senator Dr Lingeshwaran R. Arunasalam.
Also in attendance were state executive councillors Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Lim Siew Khim, Zairil Khir Johari and Wong Hon Wai; Bagan Dalam assemblyman Kumaran Krishnan, Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo Sze Zeng, Kebun Bunga assemblyman Lee Boon Heng, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, MBPP councillor Visvenathan Tangavello, and Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Temple chairman Kumarathiraviam Kasinathan.
Kumarathiraviam thanked the state government for its continued support, including financial aid for the temple’s consecration ceremony, and several other parties for their unwavering support.
“There are many unsung heroes who have worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth Thaipusam, including those at the temple peak. Thanks also go to members of the public for providing free food to devotees,” he said.
Rayer also expressed his appreciation to Chow and Jagdeep for their strong support for PHEB, and thanked Steven Sim for his RM100,000 donation to the board.
“We’re apolitical and God-fearing. Many of PHEB members are not politicians, but experienced professionals. We’re here to serve, and only to serve,” Rayer stressed.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Muhamad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Siew Chia En