THE Penang Chinese Clan Council (PCCC) has been praised for its efforts to preserve and pass down its culture to future generations by organising the annual Penang Chinese New Year celebration, which is also known as ‘Miao Hui’.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow congratulated PCCC for having the courage and wisdom to hold the much-anticipated 23rd Miao Hui this year, no matter what the challenges or difficulties they had encountered over the past two years.
“Fortunately, all of you did not give up but acted wisely and cautiously by taking preventive measures to organise Miao Hui even during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“In order to pass on this precious cultural heritage to future generations, you have devoted your precious time to keep alive the Miao Hui spirit every year.
“It makes me feel proud for Penang as you have prepared the celebration with enthusiasm and hard work,” Chow said in his speech at the opening ceremony of the Penang Miao Hui 2022 at the Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi tonight.
Chow added that the ‘George Town Cultural Heritage Activities Award’ given by the George Town World Heritage Incorporated to the organisers recently spoke volumes of the dedication by every Miao Hui volunteer and supporter over the years.
Commenting that every new year brings new hope, Chow said the state government would continue to focus on implementing policies that would benefit the people and lead the people through difficult times.
He also thanked the people from all walks of life and the sponsors, saying that without their support, the Penang Miao Hui would not have been successful.
Chow, together with Chinese consul-general to Penang Dr Lu Shiwei and PCCC chairman Datuk Ang Cho Tein, officially opened the Penang Miao Hui 2022 celebration at the temple grounds. All the three also wished the people a happy and prosperous Chinese New Year.
According to Ang, this year’s Miao Hui, which is celebrated from Jan 1 to Feb 15, is run on a hybrid format – partly physical and partly online – unlike last year when the 22nd Penang Miao Hui was held fully online for nine days.
“Since 1999, we have always focused on the promotion of excellent Chinese cultures. There is still a long way to go and I hope we will all work together,” Ang said.
Among the notable guests present were state Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi, George Town World Heritage Incorporated general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Wong Yuee Harng.
After the opening ceremony, the guests were all treated to a dance performance and a song rendition.
Chow, Lu, Ang and other guests later walked over to the nearby Armenian Park for the lantern lighting ceremony.
To enliven the atmosphere, a group of primary students gave a splendid performance which earned them a big round of applause.
The public is welcome to visit https://www.pgcny.my/ or their Facebook page pgcny to learn about the cultural treasures that the volunteers have planned for the celebration.
This year’s Chinese New Year falls on Feb 1, beginning the Year of the Tiger according to the lunar calendar.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Chan Kok Kuan