THE restoration of Wadda Gurdwara Sahib Penang, one of the oldest Sikh temples in Southeast Asia, is nearing completion, with about 80% of the work done.
According to Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, the project aims to bring the historic building back to its original architectural beauty while preserving its cultural and religious significance.
Jagdeep, who is also the Datok Keramat assemblyman, announced this during his site visit to the Gurdwara at Jalan Gurdwara today.
He was accompanied by the temple president, Santok Singh, as well as the chairman of the Conservation and Restoration of Wadda Gurdwara Sahib Penang, Datuk Seri Mahinder Singh Dulku, and its co-chairman, Datuk Malkit Singh.
“Once completed, it’s expected to continue serving not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Penang’s multicultural heritage.
“This 125-year-old Gurdwara, which is classified as a Category One heritage site, is an important landmark for the Sikh community in Penang and Malaysia as a whole.
“We are hoping for a soft opening in April during Vaisakhi Day which will also coincide with the Tamil New Year,” Jagdeep said.
Jagdeep added that the restoration typically involves structural repairs, repainting, and careful conservation of heritage features so the building reflects its authentic design.
“The project also involves the installation of one large dome and six smaller domes, all specially brought in from Amritsar, India,” he said.
Apart from that, Jagdeep said, the project costs approximately RM6 million, of which nearly RM4.1 million has already been spent.
“The remaining works are valued at RM2 million. Recently, RM600,000 was raised during a fundraising dinner held in Kuala Lumpur to support the ongoing restoration efforts,” Jagdeep said.
Meanwhile, Malkit shared that restoration work is being carried after the some part of the building deteriorated needing repairs.
“It is monitored by heritage consultant Dr Tan Cheng Leng, previously it was by Dr Gwynn Jenkins, also including heritage architect Mr Edmund,” he said while sharing that the building is constructed from clay and limestone.
Other restoration work includes ceilings, door and window frames, tiling, and car porch interlocking tiles, with carpeting, curtains, and lighting to be installed after the contractor’s handover.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alisala Thian