UNITY, harmony and mutual respect remain essential in preserving Penang’s strength as a multiracial state, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He said festivals such as Deepavali provide an important opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together, celebrate diversity and strengthen the bonds that hold the community together.
“Today, we gather in Little India, Lebuh King, not merely to celebrate Deepavali, but also to strengthen the spirit of unity and harmony that forms the strength of Penang’s multiracial society,” he said.
Chow was speaking at the Lebuh Pasar Village Community Management Council (MPKK) Deepavali Celebration in Little India today.
He said this year’s theme, Celebrating Unity and Harmony, was timely and reflected the state’s aspiration to preserve unity and embrace diversity as the foundation of a peaceful and harmonious society.
He also described Deepavali as a festival symbolising the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and hope over despair.
“These values form the foundation of unity, mutual respect and harmony within our society,” he said.
Chow said Little India was among Penang’s treasured landmarks, reflecting the unique identity and cultural heritage of the Indian community.
He noted that the area was not only a popular destination for visitors to experience Indian culture and traditions, but also contributed significantly to the local economy and the state’s tourism industry.
He said the state government would continue supporting efforts to preserve Little India’s unique character, ensuring that it remained clean, safe, attractive and visitor-friendly without compromising its historical and cultural identity.
“Cooperation between the state government, Penang Island City Council (MBPP), traders and the local community is crucial to ensuring that this heritage continues to thrive and can be enjoyed by future generations,” he said.
Chow added that the state government’s Penang2030 vision aimed to develop a state that was not only economically advanced but also sustainable, inclusive and prosperous for everyone.
He stressed that progress should not be measured through physical development alone, as cultural heritage, community unity and the well-being of the people were equally important.
On Silicon Island, Chow said 39.4% of Phase One, covering 1,270 acres, had been reclaimed as of October 2026.
He added that development in 2027 would focus on the 700-acre Green Tech Park, with its first factory expected to begin operations by 2028, creating more high-skilled employment opportunities for Penangites.
Chow also thanked the organising committee, led by R. Kumaran, together with the sponsors, contributors and volunteers for their efforts in making the celebration a success.
He concluded by wishing the people of Penang a Deepavali filled with happiness, good health, well-being and prosperity.
Also present earlier were state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh, MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, and others.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi