PENANG has pledged to make "chingay" a heritage icon by lobbying for the art to be listed as a Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Penang has joined the national heritage and Singapore authorities to jointly seek a listing for chingay to be recognised as a Unesco art form.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the joint application, submitted in March, reflects the shared commitment of both countries to safeguard cultural practices that have been preserved across generations.
He said this as the Penang Chingay Association marks its 50th anniversary celebrations here.
The art form of balancing a tall pole on the forehead amid pulsating drums, lion as well as dragon dance troupes, would hold its annual parade over this weekend.
“This nomination is not only a recognition of the historical value of the Chingay parade, but also an acknowledgement of the long-standing efforts by communities in both countries to protect and pass down this cultural heritage,” said Chow.
During the gala dinner, a 500-page book titled Movement, Heritage and Change in a Landscape of Cultural Symbols, authored by Paul Boey and Wang Lisong, was launched.
Chow described the association’s five-decade journey as a testament to perseverance, dedication and collective effort.
The demonstrative art form has become an annual feature in Penang's tourism calendar for some 50-years, and it is growing in acclaim from tourists who witnessed the parade, which runs through George Town.
“Chingay requires discipline, endurance, patience and, importantly, strong teamwork built on trust. Every powerful and synchronised movement we see on stage is the result of countless hours of training, sacrifice and commitment,” Chow said.
Despite the lack of support in the initial years of the parade, the association persevered on and the tradition today is stronger than ever.
“It is because of the selfless contributions of earlier generations, who worked tirelessly without expecting returns, that Penang today has a troupe that is mature, organised and highly respected,” he added.
Chingay has also grown to attract non-Chinese performers in the artful skill of balancing a tall pole.
“These performances are not merely cultural displays, but reflections of Penang’s inclusive society, where people from different backgrounds come together on the same streets to celebrate a shared heritage,” he said.
Cultural diversity is one of Penang's strengths and a key asset in the state's drive for development and common prosperity.
Penang Chinese Town Hall vice-chairman Datuk Teh Eng Hin congratulated the association, and expressed hope that it would continue to shine in the years ahead. - December 19, 2025.
