PENANG is gearing up for the much-anticipated return of the Miao Hui cultural festival, a cherished event that has united the state in celebration of its rich heritage for over two decades.
Slated for February 1, 2025, the festival, organised by the Penang Chinese Clan Council, marks its 26th edition with promises of cultural vibrancy and community spirit.
The Miao Hui, a cornerstone of Penang’s Chinese New Year celebrations, has evolved into more than just a festival.
It stands as a testament to the state’s multicultural harmony, weaving together the threads of tradition, modernity, and unity.
Speaking at the ceremonial lighting event in Light Street earlier this evening, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the festival’s significance.
“Miao Hui is not only a cultural feast for the people of Penang but also a showcase to the world of our unique multicultural integration.
“It has become a shining beacon of Penang’s cultural heritage, uniting our communities and instilling pride among our people,” Chow said.
He also praised the tireless efforts of the volunteers, ancestral halls, exhibitors, and performance groups who breathe life into the event each year.
“Their dedication, combined with strong community and government support, has turned Miao Hui into a flagship cultural event.
“As preparations for the festival enter their final stages, I urged the younger generation to embrace their cultural roots.
“Young people must understand their heritage and explore traditions in innovative ways.
“Through Miao Hui, we not only preserve our past but also inspire future generations to carry these traditions forward,” he said.
The festival’s exhibitions and activities aim to delve deeper into Penang’s cultural stories, highlighting the people behind the traditions and the treasures they have passed down.
The state government, in collaboration with non-governmental organisations, has made cultural preservation a priority, ensuring that festivals like Miao Hui continue to thrive alongside economic development.
“The successful organisation of Miao Hui reflects the fruitful partnership between the government and private sectors,” Chow added.
Penang Chinese Clan Council chairman Ho Swee Choon and Zhou Youbin, the consul general of China in Penang, were among the dignitaries who attended the ceremony.
As Penang counts down to the Lunar New Year, Miao Hui promises to bring its streets alive with cultural performances, intricate exhibitions, and a festive spirit that celebrates diversity and unity.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Law Suun Ting