Penang set to welcome the Year of the Horse with a host of events
PENANG will hold some 30 public events to usher in the Year of the Horse by the middle of this month.
State exco for tourism Wong Hon Wai unveiled the list of activities, programmes and celebrations planned.
With early signs of buoyant tourist arrivals, led by Chinese nationals, who have found a liking for the island, Wong said that the state will be a lively place for the celebrants.
He invited Malaysians of all faiths to help usher in the celebrations.
The Chinese New Year period, which lasts up to 15 days and climaxes with the Chap Goh Meh (Chinese Valentine) festivities, will be marked on the island and in Butterworth.
Wong said that the celebrations would be held at the state, district and community levels.
There are not only cultural ceremonies in temples that follow ancient rituals and have flourishing incense offerings, but also innovative and unique creative activities from the private sector, which can be described as a hundred flowers blooming.
"It creates a rich festive atmosphere in Penang."
He pointed out at a press conference that in order to enable residents and domestic and foreign tourists to have a more comprehensive understanding of the various activities in the state, Penang has compiled an activity list, hoping that everyone will bring their families to participate.
Among the events is the "Fish Leaping Over the Dragon Gate" lantern display at the Pui Kung Teng Temple in Bukit Mertajam, where thousands of lanterns hang high on the Bagan Raja Uda Highway in Butterworth, and rows of red lanterns light up the George Town heritage area.
The Ten Thousand Buddhas Auspicious Lights at Kek Lok Si Temple will be lit up at 7 pm on February 13 to welcome the Chinese New Year.
There are also travel deals mooted by Penang Global Tourism, the one - stop agency entrusted to stimulate tourism growth in the state. - February 5, 2026.
