THE Hean Tean Seng Temple, one of the oldest Chinese temples in Balik Pulau, today received an allocation of RM70,000 from the Penang government, which will be channelled to assist in its ongoing upgrading and repair works.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow commended the temple’s committee members for constantly carrying out the necessary works to maintain the temple’s historic look among the local community there, particularly the Hakka, Hokkien and Teochew communities.
“This is the fourth time the temple has carried out such works after its first time in 1929.
“I still remember a couple of years ago when I visited this temple, the committee had the intention to initiate the upgrading and repair works, involving several parts of the temple that were damaged due to roof leakage.
“I am happy to announce that my office will be contributing RM70,000 to help the temple complete the ongoing works, which I understand is close to completion very soon,” Chow said after visiting the temple during his ‘Jelajah ❤️ Penang’ programme in Balik Pulau today.
It is learnt that RM398,000 was needed to complete the project.
Chow said it was important for a temple of such history to continue doing what it has been doing to safeguard the well-being of the structure.
“The temple is so special that even the materials that are used contain very high heritage values.
“Congratulations to the committee for all the hard work and dedication in materialising this project,” Chow added.
Among others present during the visit were Balik Pulau MP Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik, Pulau Betong assemblyman Mohd Tuah Ismail and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang.
After the visit, Chow and his entourage headed to the Penang ATV Eco Tour Balik Pulau, a popular attraction in Kampung Perlis that offers an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rental service for visitors who wish to experience the ‘kampung’ feel in an exciting manner.
The centre has been serving its visitors since 2015.
“This is one activity that visitors can enjoy nature at its best.
“Despite being impacted by the Covid-19 previously, I hope the ATV operators here will continue with their services, and provide more reasons for visitors to come and enjoy Balik Pulau.
“This is a good time for them to also join hands with tourism players in Penang to make this activity popular,” Chow said.
There are currently 30 ATV units there.
Although Chow faced some difficulties riding the ATV for the first time, he said that with some practice, the experience would be a joyful one.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud