A CHRISTMAS market, exciting singing, dancing and traditional performances, walking ‘dinosaurs’ and many more await visitors at the Penang State Christmas Celebration 2023 at The TOP Penang in Komtar, this Dec 9 and 10.
Themed, the Season of Hope, the celebration is jointly organised by the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) and Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico).
The CFM represents the Christian faith in Malaysia and is an umbrella body for churches under three main components – the Roman Catholics, the Council of Churches, and the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship.
State Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said this year’s celebration would be held at The TOP Penang for the very first time and many exciting programmes have been arranged.
“The theme ‘Season of Hope’, which was the same theme from 2021, was chosen because it emphasised the importance and power of hope.
“It demonstrates that people can always find or perceive hope or light amid darkness.
“To the Christians, Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and how He came to give love, hope, and joy.
“Christmas is also an opportunity for reflection on the blessings one received, be it health, love or hope.
“This is also a platform to learn about cultures. Our diversity is a priceless asset,” she told a media conference in Komtar today.
Also present at the media conference were Harmonico general manager Paul Au and CFM Penang chapter chairman Arokiadass Anthonysamy.
She thanked the organising committee from Harmonico, CFM, and The TOP Penang for striving to make the event a success.
Organising chairman Pastor Liew Yean Huat said the Christmas market would be a one-stop location for the visitors’ Christmas shopping needs.
“From unique Christmas gifts and homemade cookies to candles and books, the Christmas market offers an eclectic mix of treasures that will delight shoppers of all ages.
“Visitors can also find educational toys, customised gifts, and homecare products at the Christmas market,” Liew said.
He also highlighted some exciting performances, such as the singing of Christmas carols and Christian songs, storytelling, contemporary dance, traditional Indonesian dance, and bagpipe band performances.
The TOP Penang general manager Grace Teoh said both the ‘dinosaurs’ and the mascots of The TOP Penang, Pearl and George, are set to make appearances during the celebration.
The celebration will be held from 2pm to 10pm on Dec 9 and 10.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Siew Chia En