THE annual Penang Chingay Parade has long served as a wonderful platform to showcase Penang’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Speaking at the finish point of the parade at the Esplanade last evening, Chow praised the efforts of 1,800-odd participants from 42 Malaysian teams which brought the event to life with their remarkable skills.
Starting at Datuk Kramat field at 6pm, participants from various ethnic groups displayed dazzling skills along the 4.2km route. Their performances included Chingay flag stunts, dragon and lion dances (northern, southern, and prosperity styles), wushu demonstrations, school band, the squabbling couple act, a unicycle show, traditional Malay Boria, and Indian Silambam. Participants range in age from five to over 60 years old.
A special highlight this year was the inclusion of several women dressed in intricately designed kebayas riding Penang’s iconic trishaws. This addition celebrated the recent recognition of the kebaya on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. Earlier this month, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, and Singapore successfully submitted a joint application for this recognition.
The Chingay flag performers, particularly, captivated the audience with daring stunts, such as catching flag poles with their foreheads or mouths after being launched into the air by teammates’ feet. These feats were performed while balancing on benches or standing atop ladders, earning awe and admiration from spectators.
Originating in 1919, the Penang Chingay Parade has evolved over the decades into a symbol of cultural unity, incorporating performances from Malaysia’s diverse communities. Officially recognised as Malaysia’s National Heritage in 2012, the parade remains a unique hallmark of Penang.
Chow said Penang is keen on promoting Chingay culture on a global scale and is collaborating with Johor and Singapore, to submit a joint application in March 2025 for UNESCO recognition of Chingay as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, aiming to preserve this tradition for future generations.
“Over the years, the Penang Chingay Parade has grown into a major tourism event, strongly supported by the state government. It draws thousands of residents and tourists to witness this unique spectacle,” Chow said.
“The growing influence of the parade has inspired individuals from all ethnic backgrounds in Penang to develop a keen interest in this traditional culture, with many actively learning and participating in related performance skills.”
He emphasised that art and heritage are vital in shaping a nation’s identity and enriching Malaysia’s reputation as a country rich in culture and history. “These elements also play a pivotal role in driving domestic tourism and economic growth.”
“The Penang government is confident in its ability to inspire the nation, not only through economic contributions but also through the preservation and promotion of our cultural heritage.”
Chow complimented state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai and his team, associations and all volunteers for their tireless efforts and dedication in making this year’s parade a success.
Hosted by Wong’s office (PETACE), the event received robust support from George Town World Heritage Incorporated, the Wushu, Lion and Dragon Dance Association of Penang, and the Penang Chingay Association. The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) also gave their unwavering support.
Wong highlighted that this year’s Penang Chingay Parade served as a nexus for cultural exchange, welcoming representatives from the Singapore National Heritage Board, the Singapore People’s Association, Johor’s Chingay Committee, MOTAC, and even UNESCO agencies.
“Their presence underscores the cultural significance of Chingay as a bridge connecting communities across borders.
“In February next year, we will further strengthen these cultural bonds by participating in Singapore’s Chingay Parade. Penang will send a dynamic and highly skilled Chingay troupe, carrying our iconic Chingay flags across the Causeway to perform on Singapore’s stage,” Wong said.
Wong stressed the importance of innovation in preserving traditions.
“This year’s Chingay Parade embodies the spirit of innovation. While honouring our Southern Lion Dance traditions, we have introduced performances featuring the Northern Lion, Qilin, Pixiu, and the Five Prosperity Lions. These mythical creatures unite tonight to deliver heartfelt wishes for prosperity and joy, as we aspire for Chingay and lion dance traditions to one day achieve UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition,” he added.
The crowd was mesmerised by a breathtaking performance of a lion skilfully dancing on high poles to the rhythm of drums. The evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, leaving attendees in awe.
Other prominent personalities present were Lim Siew Khim, the state executive councillor for Social Development, Welfare and non-Islamic Religious Affairs; Joseph Ng, Air Itam assemblyman; Phee Syn Tze, Sungai Puyu assemblyman; Datuk Wira Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman, secretary general of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Malaysia; Mohamed Muda Bahadin, director-general of National Heritage Department; and Datuk A. Rajendran, mayor of the Penang Island City Council (MBPP).
Also in attendance were Jea Soon Lee, deputy director-general of UNESCO, International Centre for Interpretation and Presentation of World Heritage Sites (WHIPIC); Melissa Tan, director (Heritage Policy & Research) of Singapore National Heritage Board; Dr Ang Ming Chee, general manager of George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI); and Ooi Chok Yan, chief executive director of Penang Global Tourism.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Law Suun Ting