Nestled in the heart of Bukit Mertajam’s old town heritage street, Hung Kung Kong Hoay stands as a significant Chinese clan association with deep cultural roots. This historic landmark reflects the rich heritage and traditions of the local Chinese community, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring Bukit Mertajam’s vibrant heritage area.
The Tua Pek Kong Cheng Temple in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, is a significant Taoist temple dedicated to Tua Pek Kong, a deity worshipped for protection, health, and prosperity. The temple is known for its rich history, dating back over a century, and its vibrant cultural practices, particularly during the Hungry Ghost Festival.
The temple’s architecture reflects traditional Chinese design, with intricate carvings and decorations. It serves as a focal point for community gatherings and religious ceremonies, attracting both devotees and tourists interested in Penang’s cultural heritage.
The various scenes from Penang’s historic Weld Quay featuring the annual celebration honoring the revered Jade Emperor. As devotees and onlookers gathered, the air was filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of fireworks, creating an atmosphere steeped in cultural richness alongside traditional performances at the main stage.
The Jade Emperor’s Birthday Festival, also known as the Heavenly Emperor’s Birthday or Thnee Kong Seh in Hokkien, holds deep cultural and religious significance in Chinese tradition. Originating from Taoist beliefs, the festival celebrates the birthday of the Jade Emperor, one of the most revered figures in Chinese mythology, believed to be the ruler of heaven and earth. The festival’s history traces back centuries to ancient China, where communities would gather to pay homage to the Jade Emperor with elaborate ceremonies, offerings, and prayers for blessings and prosperity. Thnee Kong Seh, is celebrated by the Hokkiens on the ninth day of the Lunar New Year.
Located along Victoria Street and built in 1878, Boon San Tong Khoo Kongsi is is one of the two ancestral temples which belong to the Khoo clan in Penang.
The Hean Boo Thean Temple, nearby the clan jetties at Weld Quay, George Town.
A photo taken during the George Town Chinese New Year festival back in February 2020. This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Movement Control Order, no large celebrations, travel or mass gatherings will be allowed for Chinese New Year.
Lion dance performance during the Chinese New Year celebration at George Town. Lion dance in Penang was found to have started during the 1930s, whereby it was a tradition brought over by immigrants from southern China back then. Hence, the common lion dance here is the southern lion dance style. Usually performed during Chinese New Year or any major Chinese event, the lion dance is believed to bring luck and fortune.
The Han Jiang Teochew Temple (or Hanjiang Ancestral Temple) is a Chinese temple located along Chulia Street (Lebuh Chulia) in George Town and right at the cross junction of Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling. It is the community temple of the Penang Teochew Association. Completed in 1870, it serves as the community temple of the Penang Teochew Association which was formed in 1855 by six Teochew migrants.
Founded and established by Dr. Sun Yat-sen in 1910, Kwong Wah Yit Poh (or Kwong Wah Daily) is one of the oldest Chinese language newspapers in the country and is predominantly read by the Chinese community in the northern region of Malaysia.
A plate of Chinese fried rice served at the Eng Loh Kopitiam at Bishop Street, George Town.