THE Oktoberfest celebration is not just a merry-making festival; it is also a significant cultural event for the Germans.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the traditional German festival had been documented as one of the local festivals by the George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) this year.
“It is one of the authentic festivals that promotes good ties between the German community and the people of Penang,” Chow said during his opening speech at the festival at the Malaysian-German Society (MGS) today.
Chow said the festival was celebrated at MGS for the 47th year.
He also said that the Germans’ long presence in Penang had resulted in German influence on technology, automobiles, music and gourmet.
Chow said Penangites embraced multi-culturalism with open hearts.
He also complimented MGS for providing German languange courses and promoting cultural ties between Malaysia and Germany.
The guests were treated to polonaise, traditional German music and delicious German cuisine at the festival.
Also present were Bukit Bendera MP Wong Hon Wai and MGS president Petra Mueller.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud