THE Penang government’s high pole lion dance competition not only saw the participation of local members but those from neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, such as Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia.
Organised for the eleventh time this year, the competition which started on Oct 28 and ended earlier today, was supported by the Chief Minister’s special coordinating office and the Tiong Hua sports and culture association in Kepala Batas.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow was invited as the guest of honour to witness the closing ceremony.
“After a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it is good to see the return of the high pole lion dance competition.
“Good to see the lion and the dragon back in action.
“Despite competing on this ground for the very first time, it was no doubt that the participants were in good form and maintained a solid performance throughout the whole tournament.
“The lion dance is our heritage, and it is rich in cultural values.
“Times have changed as lion dance is now viewed and accepted by people of different cultures and backgrounds.
“It is no longer only known and celebrated among the Chinese community but widely being accepted by other communities too.
“It is hoped that through such activity, we will be able to further promote Seberang Perai as a key tourist destination in Penang,” Chow said in his speech during the closing ceremony of the high pole lion dance competition at the Pusat Eko Pelancongan SPU (north Seberang Perai district) in Kepala Batas today.
Also present during the ceremony was state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Ahmad Adil Muhamad