THE Christmas tree lighting ceremony by The TOP Penang is back!
Visitors to the ceremony were entertained by a string of beautiful performances by The TOP entertainment team, coupled with beautiful Christmas decorations and cheerful Christmas songs.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the event, said he was delighted to be part of the Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
“This is something, I believe, all of us look forward to and it gives everyone a renewed sense of joy and hope for the coming new year as we reflect on the highs and lows we all rode through.
“It is also a time for us to treasure our loved ones, family members and friends who are always with us through thick and thin.
“No matter how tough the past two years were, I am glad that things are coming back to life, and we are returning to normal.
“This is a good sign and a welcoming one as we celebrate Christmas and usher in the new year,” said Chow in his speech.
Chow also thanked Only World Group (OWG) Holdings Berhad for playing a crucial role to help the state in its efforts to boost tourism.
“The TOP Penang is an iconic landmark in the state, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank OWG for being a significant stakeholder in Penang’s tourism industry.
“Your constant and consistent promotions as a one-stop edutainment venue for education, leisure and dining, like your mantra – ‘Fun, Food and Good Living’ – have been instrumental in returning the shine to Komtar.
“Visitors to The TOP would be spoilt for choice as there are more than 18 themed attractions and attractive food and beverage (F&B) outlets offering what they do best.
“I won’t be surprised that one can easily lose track of time here with friends and family, or even if he or she is travelling alone.
“A trip to Penang is incomplete without making a stop to visit The TOP Penang,” Chow added.
According to Chow, Penang has started to record positive tourism growth since the country’s borders were reopened in April this year.
“Some are here as travellers while others visit Penang as medical tourists.
“The traffic jam on weekends or public holidays is, to a certain extent, a welcoming sign that Penang is back in business.
“We are made aware that this is true and happening right now. The bustling activities and the resultant noise around us are increasing.
“Our hotels are getting reservations and our shopping malls are swarming with people.
“And based on the figures we have, the occupancy rate of our hotels this month is about 80 to 100%. All of these are reasons for us to continue seeking new and creative ways to boost our tourism and hospitality industry.
“To this end, the state government greatly appreciates the initiatives and support of various organisations like OWG in coming up with attractive promotions to be the pull factor for tourists and travellers to come to Penang,” he said.
At the end of his speech, Chow wished everyone a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Also present were state Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng, state Welfare and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) secretary Datuk A. Rajendran, Association of Tourist Attractions Penang (ATAP) chairman Datuk Ch’ng Huck Theng, OWG chief operating officer Puan Sri Jean Koh and Chow’s wife Tan Lean Kee.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Alissala Thian