The annual year end festive display and decorations inside the major shopping malls in Penang.
Christmas festive display at Gurney Plaza:
Christmas festive display at Queensbay Mall:
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.
Queensbay Mall’s Deepavali Festive Decorations for 2024 capture the vibrant essence of the Festival of Lights with a stunning blend of traditional and modern elements. The theme for this year is The Kaleidoscope of Deepavali.
In conjunction with George Town World Heritage Day, Georgetown Heritage and Penang Bazaar have unveiled a tribute mural at Penang Bazaar’s Color Lane. The mural, painted by local artist Vincent Phang, honors Pak Nazaruddin, who devoted 45 years to the Kebaya trade, leaving a lasting legacy in Penang’s cultural landscape.
Pak Nazaruddin’s dedication as a Kebaya merchant is celebrated through this artwork, which not only adds vibrancy to Penang Bazaar but also blends art and history in a meaningful way. The mural pays tribute to his contributions to the local community and highlights Penang’s rich heritage as a cultural hub.
Another art work by the same artist can be found along this alley as well: Link.
Located at the front facade of 𝗦𝘁 𝗫𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, this art work depicts an old green Morris Minor Saloon (PH 6074) car, which is a replica of the original Brothers’ car from St. Xavier’s Institution. The art work is collaborative effort by Art Director Reggie Lee and artist Tim Teh, both former students of the school.
Purchased in the early 1960s, the car symbolized the Brothers’ legacy, often used for transporting them to various events, including school activities and funerals. After being stolen in 1966, the car was recovered at Love Lane later that year. In the 1980s, it served mainly for errands, driven by Mr. Abdul Majid, the Brothers’ driver. Rediscovered in a scrapyard and restored, the replica was donated by an anonymous alumnus from the class of 2009, honoring the school’s heritage.
Titled “Chaigo: The Great Escape“, this vibrant mural art work is created via a collaboration of Malaysian street artists Kenji Chai and Azmi Hussin. The artwork can be found at the side entrance of Hin Bus Depit area, along Jalan Timah.
For Kenji’s other art works, click here.
Armenian Park in Penang is beautifully illuminated with 300 traditional lanterns to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. This display, organized by the Kampung Kolam MPKK and supported by local leaders, will run for a month, with the main event scheduled for 15th September. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, traditional games, workshops, and a lantern parade on the main event day. Penang’s Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the festival’s importance, emphasizing its role in fostering community and family bonds.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, originated in ancient China over 3,000 years ago during the Shang dynasty. It celebrates the harvest and the full moon, symbolizing family unity and prosperity. The festival is deeply tied to the legend of Chang’e, the moon goddess. Traditionally, people give thanks for the harvest, enjoy mooncakes, and participate in lantern displays. It usually falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month when the moon is at its brightest.
Found at Magazine Road, this mural features the popular food delivery and e-hailing company, Grab.
Ayer Itam is a bustling town located on Penang Island in Malaysia, known for its vibrant local culture and historical significance. It’s home to popular attractions like the Kek Lok Si Temple (as seen at the background of the picture), one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temples, and the Ayer Itam Dam, a serene spot offering scenic views and recreational activities. The town’s lively markets and diverse food scene, featuring local favorites like Ayer Itam Asam Laksa, draw both locals and tourists, making it a vibrant hub of activity in Penang.
Text based street art created by Trina Teoh. This art work can be found located at a zinc wall at a small park along Hutton Lane, George Town.
For her other text-based art works in Penang, please refer HERE.
