ORCHID lovers, get ready for another round of floral extravaganza! The ‘Klippa Penang Orchid Show’ is making its debut on the mainland this year, at the Klippa Shopping Centre, IKEA Batu Kawan.
After a successful showcase at Straits Quay in September, the show is back and ready to dazzle once again with more than 60 classes of orchids. Admission is free and the event will run from 10 am to 10 pm, from Dec 13 to 21 on the ground floor of the shopping centre.
Organised by the Federation of Malaya Orchid Society (FOMOS) and supported by the Office of the State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE), the show promises a spectacular floral experience.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said that hosting the event in Seberang Perai marks a historic milestone.
“FOMOS is collaborating with Klippa for the very first time to bring the orchid show to the mainland, marking its inaugural edition in Batu Kawan.
“Founded in 1958, FOMOS is Malaysia’s oldest and most prestigious orchid society, committed to promoting orchid cultivation and appreciation.
“Over the decades, it has grown into a cornerstone of the nation’s orchid community,” Wong said during a press conference held at Klippa Shopping Centre today.
Wong also highlighted that Batu Kawan will be buzzing with activity this month, as it hosts the Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) 2025 (Dec 14), an eagerly awaited annual event that attracts runners from across the globe.
“As PBIM takes place, participants and visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the orchid show.
“This reflects the state government’s commitment to organising major events that benefit both Penang Island and Seberang Perai.
“It fully aligns with the government’s vision of ensuring that every corner of Penang and every resident, can share in the state’s vibrant cultural events and lively atmosphere,” he added.
Apart from that, Wong also shared that today also marks the first anniversary of Malaysia’s breakfast culture and the kebaya being recognised by UNESCO.
“It is a fitting moment to honour their cultural significance and to thank Penang’s heritage practitioners for keeping these traditions alive.
“This milestone reflects our international cultural standing and Malaysia’s harmonious diversity.
“Moving forward, we remain committed to safeguarding our intangible heritage, with hopes that more of Penang’s treasures, such as the Chingay Parade and Lion Dance, will also receive UNESCO recognition,” Wong said.
Meanwhile, FOMOS president Tony Tan expressed hope that this year’s event will attract more than 20,000 visitors, exceeding the attendance recorded at the orchid show in Straits Quay.
“Holding the orchid show on the mainland makes it more convenient for residents to attend and enjoy, and it is expected to attract more visitors given the larger population here,” Tan said.
Tan added that, prior to its showcase at Straits Quay, the orchid show had been held at various locations, including the Botanic Gardens, Gurney Paragon, and Fort Cornwallis
Klippa Shopping Centre (Ikea Batu Kawan) deputy commercial manager Jo Saw shared that, through its collaboration with FOMOS, Klippa serves not only as a shopping centre but also as a venue for events like the orchid show, providing meaningful opportunities for visitors.
The event will also feature the sale of orchids, plants, pots, fertilizers, and a variety of other gardening items.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis