SOME 2,000 participants took part in the 5km George Town Discovery Walk to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the George Town Unesco World Heritage listing.
Caretaker Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who flagged off the event at about 7am in Beach Street, said it was a momentous occasion for the state to usher in the 15th edition of the heritage listing.
“We witness a vibrant tapestry woven with history, culture, and diversity.
“The architectural marvels, historical landmarks, and the harmonious blending of traditions and contemporary expressions speak volumes about the indomitable spirit.
“The George Town Discovery Walk, which is a pre-festival event of the George Town Festival 2023, invites us to immerse ourselves in the rich narrative of our collective legacy,” he said in his speech before the event started.
Chow said that the festival has become a platform for artists from both local and international to showcase their talents.
“I understand that the participants today come from a total of 18 foreign countries,” he said.
Chow added that the preservation of heritage was a continuous effort.
“It requires the commitment of all stakeholders to ensure that George Town is preserved.
“It is essential for us to continue fostering a sense of belonging and pride in our community,” he said.
Chow and his entourage took time off their busy schedule to join the participants for the 5km walk.
The participants, dressed in pink, grabbed the chance to have a wefie with Chow during the walk.
Also present were Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying, who is also Tanjung MP, former Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, former Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, former Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI) general manager Datin S. Bharathi, and George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix Law Suun Ting
Video by Alissala Thian