THE drizzle failed to dampen the spirit of some devotees as they took part in a six-kilometre procession of the 8th Malaysia International Guan Gong Culture Festival at the heritage enclave of Penang today.
The cultural festival was organised by the Malaysia Guan Gong Cultural Promotion Centre and Penang Toi Shan Ningyang Wui Kwon.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present to grace the event, spoke on the importance of the cultural programme held in the state.
“It is a lively and remarkable event that attracts a sea of people.
“I am pleased to be invited to attend various cultural programmes as they signify the cultural values that we have here in Penang.
“We always emphasise the importance of inheriting different sets of cultural values because preservation of culture is of utmost importance besides development,” said Chow, who is also the Padang Kota assemblyman and incumbent Tanjung MP, during the event at Toi Shan Nin Yong Temple in King Street.
A total of 45 participants took part in the procession.
The festival, which had earlier taken place in other states, is being held in Penang from Oct 14 to 30.
After Penang, it will then be organised in Kedah and Perlis.
Penang Toishan Ningyang Wui Kwon chairman Ng Kwan Fook said his organisation was pleased to host the event in Penang.
In Taoism, Guan Gong is worshipped as the God of War and the Martial God of Wealth.
Among those present were Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Wong Yuee Harng and other distinguished guests.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat