THE state-level ‘Experience Penang: Chap Goh Meh with A Bang’ event at the Esplanade has been postponed after a downpour.
Many of the visitors, who came with their families and friends, were caught in the heavy rain in George Town.
Some of them had arrived at the Esplanade in the evening to celebrate the occasion.
The organiser later announced the postponement of the event till further notice.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who graced the opening ceremony of the event earlier, said it was an opportunity to cherish the spirit of unity and friendship.
“Chap Goh Meh, which is also known as the Chinese Valentine’s Day, marks the 15th and final day of the Chinese New Year.
“This joyous occasion welcomes the arrival of spring and it symbolises new beginnings and growth.
“This is a time to reflect on the past, to give appreciation for those blessings and to look forward to the opportunities and challenges of the year ahead,” he said in his speech during the Chap Goh Meh event.
Various activities were held to entertain the crowd. There were food stalls and interactive cultural booths.
In keeping with the Chap Goh Meh mandarin-throwing tradition, Chow also joined in the celebration with those present.
Chow said he was proud to witness people from all walks of life at the event.
“Let us celebrate Chap Goh Meh with laughter and may the year ahead be filled with lots of blessings and happiness,” he said.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the celebration was meant to bring happiness, health and prosperity to the people.
“This cultural event is an excellent way to promote tourism, attracting local and foreign visitors.
“A meeting will be held soon to decide on when to hold the Chap Goh Meh celebration.
“We have no choice, but to put it off for safety reasons. Had it not been for the heavy rain just now, I believe the crowd could have been bigger,” he said.
Among those present were Chow’s wife Tan Lean Kee, Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming, Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, and Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (PCCC) president Datuk Seri Hong Yeam Wah.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En