THOUSANDS of people flocked to the Penang Yosakoi 2022 that was held for the first time at the Karpal Singh Drive this evening.
The much-awaited event made a return this year for the seventh time after it was halted for two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
It was filled with merriment as over 17 teams of Yosakoi dancers with a total number of 600 dancers from all over Malaysia and overseas performed at the Karpal Singh Drive, one of the famous spots in the state.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the Penang Yosakoi is a showcase of Penang’s heritage, the creativity of its people as well as the unity that everyone upholds in their daily life.
“This is a reflection of what we, in the state government, have envisaged through the Penang2030 vision and LovePENANG initiatives.
“I am also proud of the way we, Penangites and members of the international community here, work harmoniously for the common good of the state which we all love so much.
“The Penang lifestyle is exemplary as we are peace-loving. We carry ourselves well especially when it comes to multiculturalism.
“We truly believe in unity in diversity!” Chow said during his speech at the opening ceremony of the event.
He said although the Japanese community has a small number of some 3,500 members, it is closely knit and has contributed enormously to Penang’s cultural diversity.
“An example is the Pink Hibiscus Club which was formed in 2005. It has been instrumental in promoting Japanese culture to Penang.
“Japanese calligraphy, yoga and kimono sessions, just to name a few, are very popular with the locals.
“Penang thanks you for continuously enriching our cultural life and cultural scene here for the past 17 years,” he added.
Chow expressed his hopes that the organisers would continue with their best efforts to make Penang Yosakoi not only a shining example of what is possible in Malaysia, but also a significant event internationally.
Meanwhile, Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim who is also the organising chairman said, the event has a Malaysian theme for the first time – ‘Yosakoi Penang: Malaysia Day International Parade 2022’.
“I would like to thank Emi Yamazaki for her hard work and for making this event a reality.
“And also to the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) team, headed by MBPP director of Corporate Management Mohd Muashraf, and to all the volunteers, thank you for all the great effort.
“This evening’s event is a success because of you,” Lim said.
Penang Yosakoi, she said, is an event for all, regardless of race and religion.
“Since we are also in the Malaysia Day mood, Penang Yosakoi belongs to everyone here no matter what race or religion you are.
“You can be Malay, Chinese, Indian, Eurasian or Japanese. It is now very much a Malaysian cultural event too, thanks to our Japanese friends. It belongs to us too,” she said.
Consul-General of Japan in Penang Hiroyuki Orikasa lauded Penang’s diversity in culture, heritage, arts, and food, as well as appreciated its natural beauty.
“Penang is one of the best places to visit for an ultimate Asian experience.
“And I would like to thank the state government, the MBPP and Emi Yamazaki for successfully organising this event,” said Orikasa, who will be leaving for Japan on Sept 19 for another posting.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis