KNOWN for being one of the sports clubs that have vast experience in organising sports activities, the Penang Forward Sports Club hosted the national large-scale traditional lion dance championship here at Penang Chinese Town Hall today.
The 2nd Forward Cup National Traditional Lion Dance Championship attracted 21 local teams, yearning for success.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow lauded the Penang Forward Sports Club for always being actively working with the Penang government and various associations, hosting various non-governmental cultural and sports activities, assisting the state government in promoting various activities and policies in the state, and acting as a bridge between the people and the government.
“The championship provides a platform for the participating teams to demonstrate lion dance skills and cultural exchanges. It also helps to promote the tourism industry in Penang and attract more tourists to the state,” he said.
Also present were Thai consul-general in Penang Raschada Jiwalai, Penang Chinese Town Hall chairman Tan Sri Dr Tan Khoon Hai, Penang Forward Sports Club chairman Lim Choo Hooi, Penang Wushu, Lion and Dragon Dance Association chairman Datuk H’ng Ban Choon, and Penang State Sports Council director Harry Chai.
Dr Tan said the championship showcased the beautiful Chinese culture which has been highly accepted by various ethnic groups.
“The lion dance has united various ethnic groups, displaying Malaysia’s unique multicultural value,” he said.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis