IT’S that time of the year again!
The much improved Covid climate has given hope to many, and to mark the highly-anticipated year-end month, the Penang government held a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Esplanade on Dec 8.
The ceremony, which was officiated by state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, was further warmly graced by Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak and wife Toh Puan Khadijah Mohd Nor.
While delivering his speech, Yeoh said Malaysia as a country had gone through a roller-coaster ride since the Covid virus made its mark in the country early last year, dampening all possible economically-driven activities, celebrations and many others.
“While it was tough and still relatively hard on us despite more relaxed than the earlier rage in cases, it is important that we embrace unity and stay as one, which is why festivals are deemed necessary.
“December is the most highly-anticipated month of the year, not only for Christmas, but also because we get to welcome year-end school holidays.
“It is such an honour to have our Governor here today with us, joining and embracing as we light up this Christmas tree to usher in the Christmas season.
“Celebrate it safely and don’t forget to always abide by the standard operating procedures,” Yeoh said during his speech.
During the ceremony, the state government also handed out basic necessities to children from the Salvation Army Penang Children’s Home.
The night then continued with several musical performances by the children from Salvation Army.
Story and pix by Kevin Vimal