MORE than 20,000 people from all walks of life gathered at the Esplanade this evening to celebrate the state-level Chap Goh Meh Festival 2025, which coincides with Valentine’s Day.
Families and loved ones came together to mark the grand conclusion of the Chinese New Year celebrations while embracing the rich heritage and multicultural spirit of the occasion.
The event was originally scheduled for Wednesday but was postponed due to anticipated heavy traffic congestion from the Thaipusam celebrations on the same day.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the guest of honour at the festival, said the overwhelming turnout showed the community’s overwhelming response for the festivities, which featured an array of activities.
“Penang has long been recognised as one of the country’s top tourism destinations, renowned for its history, culture, nature, and gastronomy,” Chow said in his speech during the event in Esplanade.
Among the highlights of the event were the traditional orange-tossing ceremony, performances by local artists, lion dances, and a dondang sayang troupe.
Chow also emphasised the state’s commitment to public safety and tourism development.
“We have continued to prioritise public security with the installation of 1,000 additional closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras across Seberang Perai to ensure a safe environment.
“Our cultural heritage plays a pivotal role in the national tourism agenda. Under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, we aim to attract 35.6 million international visitors and generate RM147.1 billion in tourism revenue.
“The Penang International Airport (PIA) has also recorded a significant increase in tourist arrivals, particularly from Indonesia, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Thailand, and India. Arrivals from China have also surged, further solidifying our global appeal in tourism,” he added.
During the event, Chow described Chap Goh Meh as more than just a festival, as it is a celebration of love, tradition, and unity.
“The orange-throwing ceremony reflects Penang’s dynamic cultural fabric, attracting people from all backgrounds,” he said.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai shared similar sentiments, highlighting Chap Goh Meh as both a cherished tradition and a cultural spectacle that unites communities.
“Tonight’s event is particularly special as we rescheduled it to coincide with Valentine’s Day, blending the romantic traditions of the East and West,” he said.
Wong also emphasised the beauty of the traditional kebaya attire and the significance of Chingay and lion dance performances.
Also present at the event were Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, who is also the Tanjong MP, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, and several state assemblymen.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Alissala Thian