THE Penang Chinese New Year (CNY) celebration or more fondly known as Miao Hui, saw thousands of visitors thronging the heritage enclave today.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who attended the event, said the return of Miao Hui in the physical form has brought life back to the state’s heritage area during the CNY festivity.
“The ancestors and their descendants have sacrificed time and energy to pass down cultural traditions to future generations.
“And today, I am happy to see that Miao Hui has finally returned to its physical form, bringing life back to the Penang heritage area during this Chinese New Year.
“Thank you everyone for your selfless contribution and support,” Chow said in his speech during the opening ceremony of Miao Hui near the Esplanade this evening.
Chow added that the beauty of Penang lies in the people’s hearts, and he congratulated all the community organisations in Penang for their dedication to organising the event.
“The Penang CNY celebration was first held back in 1999. That was the Year of the Rabbit, and today, Miao Hui is 24 years old.
“The volunteers and organisers of Miao Hui hosted the online Miao Hui celebration when the Covid-19 pandemic hit us two years ago.
“Due to their determination, the Miao Hui celebration did not stop (because of pandemic as it was held online) ,” he said.
This year, the celebration took place from 4pm to 11pm at various places in the heritage zone – from the Esplanade to the Khoo Kongsi.
Colourful cultural performances set the mood for a joyous CNY celebration.
Chow hoped that the Miao Hui would gain more support from those in the business sector in the future.
Meanwhile, Chinese consul-general to Penang Zhou Youbin welcomed the Year of the Rabbit.
“We hope to work together with Malaysia to bring our relationship to greater heights, and to continue working towards the ‘Belt and Road Initiative’,” he added.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud