THE Kek Lok Si Temple transformed into a fairyland of lights this evening when thousands of Chinese lanterns, as well as neon and LED lights were switched on during the annual lighting ceremony.
The amazing ceremony was witnessed live by over 5,000 people who visited the temple’s Facebook page.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow praised the temple for observing the standard operating procedure (SOP) and using the online platform to hold the ceremony.
“We thank the Kek Lok Si Temple for broadcasting the lighting ceremony online so that the public can also witness the ceremony from their home.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted our lives. We are happy that the Kek Lok Si Temple has decided to continue with the annual lighting ceremony,” Chow said in his speech during the ceremony.
He also updated the public on the latest Chinese New Year SOP by the Federal Government.
“We understand that the Federal Government has now allowed family reunion dinner for CNY.
“But this would be limited to 15 family members living within a 10km radius and must not involve inter-state or inter-district travel.
“Religious activities at houses of worship are also permitted at certain times as according to the revised SOP,” he said.
The high number of Covid-19 cases in Penang recently has saddened the Chief Minister.
Penang recorded 250 new cases today (Feb 7) and 211 cases yesterday (Feb 6).
“The high number of Covid-19 cases will cause a big impact to the state,” he said.
He urged everyone to adhere to the SOP to break the Covid-19 infection chain.
Former Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng thanked the temple for continuing the tradition.
“My hope is for Malaysia to recover from this pandemic and to continue to prosper,” Lim, who is the Air Putih assemblyman and Bagan MP, said.
The lights in Kek Lok Si Temple were switched on at 8.05pm after the prayers were conducted. The ceremony concluded with a fireworks display.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Chan Kok Kuan