AFTER over year of hiatus due to Covid-19 pandemic, more than 100 people, including Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow visited the Air Itam War Memorial Park today to mark the Penang Overseas Chinese Anti-Japanese War Memorial World Remembrance Day.
It is celebrated annually on Nov 11. The Penang Overseas Chinese Anti-Japanese War Memorial World Remembrance Day is held to remember the members of the armed forces who died during the Japanese Occupation. It was not held last year following the severity of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Those present observed a strict standard operating procedure (SOP). The seats were also arranged according to physical distancing rules.
A minute of silence was observed, and the guests sang the Negaraku and the state anthem before the event started.
Chow, in his speech, was thankful that the people could gather at the Air Itam War Memorial Park once again.
“It is utmost important for us to promote love, peace and harmony. We need to be grateful for the harmonious surrounding that we have managed to achieve,” he said.
Chow also conveyed a special thanks to the rakyat, especially to the frontliners and volunteers who have tirelessly contributed their strength during the pandemic.
“You are the heroes of this era,” he added.
Chow also reminded the people to be vigilant although Penang has entered Phase Four of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).
Meanwhile, Chinese consul-general to Penang Lu Shiwei was grateful that the event could be held this year.
“This is a symbolic event. We commemorate the struggles of the fallen heroes back then,” he said.
Lu also hoped that the Covid-19 situation would improve.
Also present were Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH) chairman Datuk Khor Teng How, state executive councillors and state assemblymen.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Chan Kok Kuan