GEORGE TOWN: The LovePenang Carnival, featuring elements of the state's food, culture and heritage, will be held on Jan 7 to celebrate as the country emerges from the Covid-19 pandemic.
It marks the culmination of the LovePenang community-based campaign launched in June to inspire unity and goodwill among the people as they rebuild after the pandemic.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said 30,000 to 50,000 visitors are expected to join in the carnival which will take place from 4pm to 11pm at Esplanade in George Town.
"A variety of interesting activities will start at 4pm, including performances by great artists from the local and international scene," he said during a press conference in Komtar on Wednesday (Dec 28).
Chow said that in addition to delicious and unique local food, the carnival will feature the diverse traditions, culture and heritage in the state and is suitable for families.
"A lineup of artists such as Datuk David Arumugam, Acidic Bunch, Jaclyn Victor, Faizal Tahir, PongPong, Santesh and Shawn Lee will rock the stage.
"For fans of art heritage, contemporary dance performances from Euphoria Penang and Wak Long Music and Art Center will also add colour to the carnival.
"There will be booths set up by several state agencies to promote their ongoing programmes," he added.
Chow said the resilience of Penangites in recovering from the pandemic was the inspiration for the campaign and carnival.
"We want to spread the spirit of unity across all ethnic backgrounds, faiths and political inclinations to celebrate in a spirit of belonging," he said.
"The LovePenang campaign has succeeded in uniting us and now, we are about to step into the new year stronger and whole.
"This is the time for us to celebrate together and work towards achieving the Penang 2030 Vision," he said.
Also present was Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan.
