THE second edition of the Nibong Tebal Festival kicked off today with great fanfare, attracting a diverse crowd to Jalan Pasar Lama today.
The festival, held over two days from Jan 18 (today) to 19, has once again proven to be a vibrant platform for celebrating local culture, arts, and heritage.
Jointly organised by the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and Jawi constituency service centre, with support from the Penang government, the festival was officiated by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. He was joined by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, who is also the Nibong Tebal MP, Penang Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, who is also the Jawi assemblyman, and MBSP mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid.
In his speech, Chow said the Nibong Tebal Festival provides a wonderful platform for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich arts, culture, and heritage that define the local community.
“Such initiatives also align with the Penang2030 vision, which emphasises empowering people and fostering active civic participation.
“It fills me with pride to witness the growth of this festival, which began last year and has now become an annual event.
“It attracts not only locals but also visitors from neighbouring states. This success is a testament to the warmth and hospitality of the people of Nibong Tebal, who welcome everyone with open arms,” said Chow.
Chow also hopes Nibong Tebal Festival, together with other major festivals organised by MBSP annually such as Butterworth Fringe Festival, will be continued for many years to come to promote Seberang Perai.
He also urged the people of south Seberang Perai, particularly those in Nibong Tebal, to work hand in hand with the state government to empower the district.
“Together, we can drive growth across various sectors, such as tourism, agrotechnology, entrepreneurship, and others.
“At the same time, we must continue to preserve and celebrate our arts, culture, and heritage as a foundation of our identity,” said Chow.
Baderul said the Nibong Tebal Festival is one of MBSP’s efforts to boost the economy of the local community and contribute to the redevelopment of Nibong Tebal town.
“This festival focuses on various community programmes, encompassing art, culture and heritage.
“Performances by local artists such as wayang kulit by Wak Long Music & Art Centre, Drum Circle by The Colour of Sounds, lion dance by Hong Guan Academy, chingay performances by Persatuan Chingay Seberang Perai, are key highlights,” Baderul said.
Visitors can also participate in hands-on workshops such as Chinese calligraphy, batik drawing, engage in traditional games, and enjoy trishaw rides.
“We want to bring an array of artistic expressions directly to the Nibong Tebal community and at the same time to lure tourists locally and abroad,” he said.
H’ng urged the public to experience the festival, describing it as a vibrant celebration of culture and art.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat