PENANGITES, who are unable to go overseas due to the travel restrictions, now have the opportunity to admire creative sculptures depicting iconic landmarks of several countries at the Esplanade.
The sculptures will be placed in the heart of the town until June.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present to officiate the launching of the ‘Penang Brings the World to Your Doorstep’, said it was aimed at spreading festive cheer during the fasting month and upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
“The state government is keen to enliven the atmosphere by bringing the ‘world’ to the people of Penang through these beautiful sculptures due to interstate border closures.
“The traders in the vicinity can look forward to brisk businesses as more visitors are expected to visit the Esplanade.
“The attractions will spur the domestic tourism and help sustain local businesses through these various creative ventures.
“It is my sincere hope that these displays will bring families together and lift the spirits of Penangites.
“I congratulate the Penang State Exco Office for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE) and Penang Global Tourism (PGT) for coming up with this creative idea,” he said in his speech at the Esplanade today.
Chow expressed hopes that the visitors would strictly adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) when they visit the Esplanade.
The sculptures feature iconic landmarks and monumental buildings from countries such as United Kingdom (Big Ben, Westminster Cathedral, Tower Bridge), Japan (Mount Fuji, Chureito Pagoda), Australia (Sydney Opera House, Twelve Apostles), India (Taj Mahal, India Gate), China (Temple of Heaven, Great Wall of China), United Arab Emirates (Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab), United States of America (Statue of Liberty National Monument, Golden Gate Bridge) and France (Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame de Paris).
There are also 12 sets of zodiac signs exhibited at the Esplanade.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, in his speech, said the one-of-its kind tourists attraction was to further promote Penang’s tourism.
“Those who can’t travel to other countries are welcome to the Esplanade to witness the lighted-up sculptures.
“It’s a complimentary admission for everyone as we want to position Penang as a destination for all,” he said.
When asked whether if there would be any extension after June, Yeoh said it would depend on public feedback.
Also present were Senator Lim Hui Ying, Batu Lancang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi, PGT chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, PGT board members, and Love Lane Trading Sdn Bhd director Gary Ang Bak Khoon.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Chan Kok Kuan