SWEET smiles and happiness were clearly reflected on the faces of some 300 children and senior citizens during the early Christmas celebrations hosted by Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) Penang.
They came together to celebrate the joyous occasion in the spirit of unity during the event sponsored by the state government, some organisations as well as some individuals.
The guests were entertained with a wonderful magical show by a local magician and presented with some Christmas gifts by Santa Claus.
YWCA Penang president Datuk Dr Marina David said the annual Christmas celebration started eight years ago.
“At first, we only invited children from welfare homes around the state.
“And everything changed since three to four years ago when we started to invite senior citizens as well to celebrate Christmas together.
“The idea is to bring children and senior citizens from different faiths together to just enjoy the celebration without leaving anyone behind.
“The event also aims to foster unity and joy so that we recognise that each race has different cultures and different celebrations,” she said in her speech at YWCA building in Jelutong today.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was also invited to the event, praised YWCA for organising such event for the eighth consecutive year.
“Christmas is a time for us to share love, joy, peace and hope.
“Through Christmas celebration as well, it is a time when God gives his love to the people.
“And it is our duty to spread the love to the people around us,” he said.
According to Chow, the state government also has been supporting various religious celebrations throughout the year.
“This is proven when all state assembly representatives have been given an allocation for them to organise such activity so that we can bring the people together from different backgrounds and religions and to appreciate what we have now,” Chow added.
Also present was Chow’s wife Tan Lean Kee.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix and Video by Alvie Cheng