THE Sikh community in Penang, although small, has always played a significant role in shaping the social and cultural fabric of our state.
On April 26, the Wadda Gurdwara Sahib in George Town, in collaboration with the Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico), will organise this year’s state-level Vasakhi Open House in Esplanade.
Held annually to celebrate and spread the very essence of Sikh values with the larger community, this year’s fest will not be short of a colourful and vibrant event.
State Social Development, Welfare, and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said that Vasakhi, like other festivals, is part of the state’s continuous commitment to celebrating the diversity and community that define our beloved Penang.
“Penang has always been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions.
“From Chinese New Year to Hari Raya, from Deepavali to Christmas, we celebrate together as united Penangites and Malaysians.
“The state-level 21st Vasakhi Open House reflects that very spirit and promises a vibrant and inclusive celebration.
“Visitors can look forward to a showcase of Punjabi and Sikh cultural performances, traditional music, delicious Punjabi cuisine, and of course, the warmth and hospitality of the Sikh community.
“The open house is a wonderful opportunity for the public to learn more about Sikh cultural practices, values, and its contributions to our Malaysian society,” Lim said during the media conference at the Wadda Gurdwara Sahib in George Town this morning.
Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak is expected to grace the event, accompanied by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo.
In a related development, Wadda Gurdwara Sahib president Datuk Santok Singh provided an update regarding the ongoing restoration project on the 123-year-old temple, regarded as a Category One heritage building.
“We have so far raised RM3 million but the entire project is expected to cost RM6.8 million.
“On behalf of the temple’s conservation and restoration committee, we would like to pledge support from the public to assist us as we hope to complete this project by the end of this year.
“And if everything goes well, we hope to celebrate the gurdwara’s Vasakhi Open House at the Gurdwara next year,” he said.
It was learned that the project has now reached 45% completion.
Also present earlier was Harmonico general manager Paul Au.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Law Suun Ting