CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow today took the time out of his hectic schedule to visit ‘thaneer panthal’ (refreshment stalls) and share lighthearted moments with the devotees in Jalan Utama, ahead of the grand Thaipusam celebration tomorrow.
Over a million devotees are expected to throng the Thaipusam in Penang to fulfil their vows.
In the walkabout that began at 4pm, Chow received a warm reception and was greeted by enthusiastic devotees.
He was adorned with garlands of flowers by the well-wishers as a gesture of appreciation.
The Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) chairman R.S.N. Rayer was among those who accompanied Chow during the walkabout.
Other notable attendees included Chow’s political secretary Lau Keng Ee, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi, state Social Development, Non-Religious and Welfare Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, and state Infrastructure, Transportation and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.
Additionally, state assemblymen present were Joseph Ng (Air Itam), Wong Yuee Harng (Pengkalan Kota), Ong Ah Teong (Batu Lanchang), and K. Kumaran (Bagan Dalam).
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian