Hari Raya celebrations are in full swing at Queensbay Mall with Eksplorasi Raya. This year, the mall transforms into a vibrant showcase of Malaysia’s East Coast heritage, bringing the charm of coastal traditions to life.
It is a warm and cheerful festive ambience inspired by the rich culture of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang. From beautifully decorated spaces to a seaside beachscape with tents, visitors can enjoy a cozy and nostalgic Hari Raya journey along with various cultural performances scheduled for the month.
The Bazar Ramadan in Bayan Baru, Penang, is one of the largest and most popular Ramadan markets in the area. Held annually during the holy month, this bustling bazaar draws crowds looking for delicious local food to break their fast. It’s located near the Bayan Baru market and Masjid Umar Al Khatab, with stalls opening as early as 4 p.m.
Visitors can find a huge variety of mouthwatering dishes, from classic favorites like nasi lemak, satay, and murtabak to refreshing drinks and traditional sweets. The lively atmosphere, filled with the aroma of grilled meats and freshly fried snacks, makes it a must-visit spot for food lovers.
Kek Lok Si, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, is a stunning hilltop sanctuary in Penang, blending Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architectural styles. Famous for its multi-tiered Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas and the towering Kuan Yin statue, the temple offers breathtaking views of George Town and beyond. Pilgrims and tourists alike visit to admire its intricate carvings, vibrant prayer halls, and serene gardens, making it both a spiritual haven and a photographer’s dream.
During Chinese New Year, the temple transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights at night, adding to its enchanting charm.
Preparations and booths set-up have began for the celebration of the Thaipusam festival this coming Tuesday (11 February).
Thousands of devotees will walk barefoot, carrying kavadis or pots of milk as offerings to Lord Murugan, with some even piercing their bodies as a form of penance. The air will be thick with the sound of drums, chants, and prayers as the massive silver chariot makes its way from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Georgetown to the Waterfall Hilltop Temple. The streets will be packed with people, both locals and tourists, soaking in the atmosphere, enjoying free food from stalls, and witnessing one of the most intense and visually striking festivals in Malaysia.
The Penang Snake Temple, also known as Temple of the Azure Cloud, is a unique Chinese temple located in Sungai Kluang, Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia. Built in 1805, it is dedicated to the Buddhist deity Chor Soo Kong, a Qing-era monk known for his healing powers and compassion for all living beings, including snakes. Legend has it that after the temple’s completion, snakes appeared on their own and have since inhabited the temple.
The temple is famous for its resident pit vipers, which are believed to be “tamed” by the deity’s presence. Visitors can observe these snakes coiled around statues and altars, seemingly docile. The temple also houses a snake museum and breeding pit.
Queensbay Mall in Penang is celebrating Chinese New Year with its “Blooming Bliss” theme. The mall’s central atrium has been transformed into a beautiful garden featuring pink cherry blossoms, red lanterns, butterflies, and a porcelain-shaped hut as the centerpiece. The decorations symbolize happiness, abundance, and prosperity, with flowers that open their petals for visitors to enjoy.
Touted as Penang’s first floating ferry food hall, Marina De Captain Restaurant is converted and renovated from an old unused ferry docked near the Queens Waterfront promenade in Bayan Lepas.
Colorful and beautiful display of Deepavali decorations in Gurney Plaza shopping mall.
Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is the Hindu festival of lights celebrated with joy and togetherness. It signifies the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, inspired by various legends, such as Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana.
In Malaysia, Deepavali is celebrated with vibrant cultural unity, bringing together people from all backgrounds to honor the Hindu festival of lights. Homes and temples are beautifully decorated with oil lamps, kolam (rangoli) designs, and colorful flowers, creating a warm, welcoming ambiance. Early morning prayers and rituals are followed by family gatherings, where traditional sweets like murukku and laddu are shared. Open houses are popular, inviting friends of all backgrounds to partake in festive meals and celebrations. Many communities organize public events and performances, including cultural dances and traditional music, highlighting Malaysia’s rich, multicultural harmony on this joyous occasion.
Ferringhi Bay is a beachfront container boulevard in Penang, offering a unique mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment experiences along the famous Batu Ferringhi beach. The outdoor mall features F&B outlets housed in containers, with a focus on modern, tropical aesthetics and an Instagram-worthy atmosphere. It’s designed to attract both locals and tourists, blending retail with a relaxing beachside vibe.
