A SUDDEN downpour did not deter thousands from attending the state-level Christmas celebration at St George’s Church in George Town today.
The rain began just as the crowd was getting ready for the parade at about 5.15pm, but many stayed on with umbrellas and raincoats, patiently waiting for the programme to continue.
The lively atmosphere prevailed despite the wet weather, with the crowd, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, and other distinguished guests taking part in the parade around the heritage enclave.
Before the parade, attendees were treated to children’s performances and community groups that filled the church grounds with festive music and dance.
Chow said the parade reflected Penang’s unity and festive spirit.
“The last parade was in 2000. Its return today is very meaningful for all of us,” he said in his speech.
Chow added that the revival of the parade showed Penang’s strength as a diverse and harmonious community.
“This is not just a religious event. It is a symbol of confidence, hope and solidarity,” he said.
He said St George’s Church was a fitting venue as it represented Penang’s long history of multicultural harmony. He thanked the church for hosting the celebration, adding that their support strengthened the relationship between the state and the community.
Chow reaffirmed the state government’s continued support for non-Islamic places of worship, including churches.
“A total of RM1.884 million has been allocated in 2025 to 54 non-Islamic houses of worship as part of continued state support,” he said, adding that RM10 million has also been set aside until 2028 as medium-term assistance.
“These efforts show our commitment to harmony and unity,” he said.
Chow praised the Christian community for its continuous social work.
“Churches have always helped the needy, regardless of background. This contributes to our goal of building a caring society,” he said.
He said harmony must be nurtured through respect and understanding, noting that Penang’s diversity continued to be its strength, making the state progressive and stable.
Chow also thanked the organisers and volunteers for ensuring a smooth celebration.
State Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim extended her Christmas greetings and said she was honoured to join in the celebration.
She noted that last year’s state Christmas celebration was held in Seberang Perai, while this year’s edition took place on Penang island.
“This reflects the state government’s commitment to balanced development,” she said.
Lim also thanked churches, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), volunteers, and relevant agencies for their strong cooperation in making the event successful.
Deputy Finance Minister and Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying emphasised that such events foster stronger bonds among communities.
“Our strength lies in our unity,” she said, adding that she was proud that the significant occasion took place in her constituency.
During the event, the state presented RM150,000 to the Christian Federation of Malaysia (Penang). Six other NGOs — Persatuan Syukur Penyayang Pulau Pinang, Persatuan Kebajikan Haemodialisis St Anne Bukit Mertajam, Kawan, House of Hope, Asia Community Service, and Pusat Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Pulau Pinang — each received RM2,000 from Lim’s constituency and RM3,000 from the Christian Federation of Malaysia (Penang).
Among those present were Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen, Harmonico general manager Paul Au, Cardinal Sebastian Francis, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillors, and Penang State Christmas Celebration Committee 2025 chairman Arokiadass Anthonysamy.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Siew Chia En