THE Penang government, under Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow’s leadership, actively upholds and celebrates religious diversity in the state by prioritising the organisation of various festivities.
Speaking at the Penang State Christmas Celebration 2023, Chow highlighted the importance of fostering tolerance and goodwill, aligning with the Malaysia Madani concept.
“This endeavour strives to uphold tolerance and goodwill among individuals, aligning with the Malaysia Madani concept.
“Grounded in the principles of mutual respect and the celebration of diversity, it seeks to foster an atmosphere where people can coexist harmoniously,” Chow said during his speech at the Penang State Christmas Celebration 2023 at The TOP Penang this evening.
Emphasising mutual respect and celebrating diversity, Chow commended the joint efforts of Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico), the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM), Penang, and The TOP Penang.
Through initiatives led by Harmonico, the state government encourages celebrations that promote understanding and a culture of mutual respect.
Chow emphasised the significance of unity and tolerance during festive seasons like Christmas, emphasising shared values within the community.
“In festive seasons such as Christmas, we unite to spread kindness and hope, nurturing a sense of harmony among those around us.
While Christmas holds significance for Christians in commemorating the birth of Jesus, I believe it is a day universally anticipated, transcending race and religion, symbolically marking the approach of a new year.
“Values like unity and tolerance within the community stand as pivotal elements for effective and progressive governance by any government,” he added.
The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Season of Hope,’ underscores the importance of hope for humanity, transcending religious boundaries.
Chow extended congratulations to Harmonico, CFM Penang, and The TOP Penang for organising the two-day event, hosted at The TOP Penang for the first time.
Expressing gratitude to Tan Sri Richard Koh for providing the venue, Chow urged everyone to unite to preserve the existing harmony and well-being.
Organising chairman Pastor Liew Yean Huat highlighted the essence of Christmas, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ as the source of all hope.
Acknowledging the state government’s continuous support, he emphasised the values of joy, peace, and hope that Christmas represents.
The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries, including state Social Development, Welfare, and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, and Arokiadass Anthonysamy, the head of the Inter-Religious and Ecumenical Department for the Diocese of Penang.
Charitable organisations, namely Little Sisters of the Poor, Persatuan Penyayang Warga Tua Pulau Pinang, Crystal Family Home Care Centre, and Children’s Protection Society of Penang, received RM5,000 each from event sponsors, contributing to the spirit of giving and community support.
The event features a Christmas Market, along with vibrant dance and singing performances. Children from the DOA Service Centre presented a lively musical performance.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Alissala Thian