THE highly anticipated annual Thaipusam festival in Penang is set to be even grander this year, with an expected turnout exceeding 1.5 million devotees and visitors.
Known for drawing massive crowds, this year’s celebration is forecasted to surpass previous records, attracting participants not just from Malaysia but also from countries like New Zealand and Australia.
Penang Hindu Endowments Board (PHEB) chairman RSN Rayer has assured that meticulous preparations are in progress to accommodate the influx of worshippers.
“With Thaipusam coinciding with the school holidays this year, the number of attendees is expected to be significantly higher.
“We anticipate over 1.5 million Hindu devotees and visitors, both local and international.
“With the school holidays aligning with the festival, we expect a surge in attendance,” Rayer said during a media conference at the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple office on Feb 1.
To improve the experience for devotees, the ‘Pathrikai and Chariot Tracker’ mobile application, launched last year through a collaboration between PHEB and Digital Penang, has been upgraded with enhanced features.
This app enables users to track the movement of the Golden Chariot in real time, ensuring devotees have better access to accurate and timely information.
A major highlight of Thaipusam, the Golden Chariot procession, will commence its journey from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple at Queen Street at 6am on Feb 10.
The chariot will then make its way to the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple, where it is scheduled to arrive the following day. After the celebrations, it will return to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple on Feb 13.
With enhanced digital accessibility and careful planning, Penang is gearing up for one of the most spectacular Thaipusam celebrations yet.
Story by Kevin Vimal