PENANG is not only famous for its food, heritage, and nature but also for its people of different faiths who live together in peace and harmony.
These make it a vibrant place to live in.
State Social Development, Welfare, and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said the state government, through the establishment of Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico), has fostered unity through its support for cultural and religious festivals and celebrations.
“Penang is home to various religious communities, each one with its traditions and festivals.
“The state government supports interfaith dialogues to raise awareness and foster the spirit of mutual respect and understanding.
“By bringing together leaders from different faiths to discuss common issues and concerns, we have sown the seeds of unity and they have flourished in Penang,” Lim said when she attended the dinner organised by the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHT) at Eastin Hostel yesterday.
Representatives from the five different faiths (Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism) attended the dinner, themed ‘Peace and Harmony’, and they shared quality time, further strengthening community ties.
Lim added that the state government has played a vital role in preserving the religious heritage of the state.
“We have supported the maintenance and renovation of places of worship.
“This dedication to preserving the cultural and religious heritage strengthens the bond between the government and religious communities,” Lim said.
Lim acknowledged the dedication of the religious leaders and communities for promoting inclusivity and tolerance.
“They continue to work towards a common goal and complement the state’s efforts to create a harmonious society.
“Our lovely and colourful Penang, known for its rich culture and diversity, is an example of how different ethnicities, religions, and communities can coexist in harmony.
“This unique harmony is something that we must strive and preserve for our future generations.
“Collaborations between the state and religious communities have, without a doubt, enhanced the unity and harmony in our state,” Lim added.
Lim also highlighted the importance of educating the younger generations to embrace diversity and be respectful.
Meanwhile, MCCBCHST headquarters president Tan Hoe Chieow, who is also the chairman of the Federation of Taoist Associations Malaysia, commended the state government for its initiative in establishing Harmonico.
Harmonico takes charge of affairs concerning religions other than Islam and is tasked with implementing initiatives and policies aimed at promoting an inclusive and harmonious society in Malaysia.
The special speaker for the event was Think City’s Datuk Seri Dr Anwar Fazal, who said that the cultural diversity in Penang is reflected in the architecture of the houses of worship.
He also mentioned that the names of streets in Penang symbolise a multiracial community.
Also present were MCCBCHST Penang branch chairman Sardar Sukhindarpal Singh, organising chairman A.Arokiadass, Persatuan Muslim Tanjung (PELITA) chairman Mohamed Nasir Mohideen, and other dignitaries.
Story & Pix by Tanushalini Moroter