AFTER having to hold the annual Kek Lok Si Temple lighting ceremony virtually last year due to the Covid-19 situation, the lighting ceremony was held physically this year.
Hundreds of visitors thronged the temple in Air Itam to witness the annual tradition.
The ceremony saw the 130-year-old temple transformed into a fairyland of lights when thousands of Chinese lanterns, as well as neon and LED lights, were switched on.
The temple was lighted up in a grand manner right up to the majestic Goddess of Mercy statue and the pavilion temple.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present during the ceremony, wished everyone a blessed Chinese New Year, and he reminded the people to celebrate it safely.
“Last year, visitors were barred from entering the temple to witness the ceremony due to the rage of the pandemic. Although it is permitted this year, it is important for us to follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs) strictly.
“I would like to thank the temple committee members and other relevant parties for organising this ceremony today, just like how they have successfully been doing it over the years.
“The lights have certainly set us all on a festive mood.
“We are still recovering from this crisis, and with concerted efforts, I am certain that we can help bring back life to normalcy.
“I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a prosperous and safe Chinese New Year,” Chow said in his speech at the Kek Lok Si Temple today.
It is learnt that some 10,000 different types of traditional Chinese lights, which were installed at the temple, will be lit up until Feb 28.
The hour-long ceremony today included prayers and 10 minutes of fireworks display.
Also present were Penang Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng, Air Putih assemblyman Lim Guan Eng, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng and temple trustee Datuk Seri Steven Ooi.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar and Alissala Thian
Video by Law Suun Ting and Alissala Thian