Mesmerising light display: Kek Lok Si Temple is once again brightly lit with colourful lights in keeping withvthe Chinese New Year tradition. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: For one month from this Friday, there’s only one thing to do if you’re in Ayer Itam – visit Kek Lok Si Temple, or briefly pause to admire the majestic sight from far.
The more than 130-year-old temple will be transformed into a mini fairyland of lights to usher in the Lunar New Year of the Dragon.
This year, thousands of LED lights, neon lights and traditional lanterns, some in the form of dragons, have been put up throughout its premises. The lanterns will be lit up for display from Friday until March 7.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the colourful lights were always well received by locals and foreigners each year.
“This event is an iconic programme every Chinese New Year here in Penang. It is also important not just for Penangites but foreign tourists, as well.
“However, it’s not easy to hold the event every year, as apart from the funds, they also need manpower and energy.
“I would like to thank Kek Lok Si Temple for their hard work,” he said before the lighting up ceremony on Sunday.
Thousands gathered at the temple to witness the event, which saw a dinner being held before the praying session. The lights were turned on at about 7.30pm followed by a fireworks display.
Also present were temple’s Kek Lok Sit trustee and foundation chairman Datuk Seri Venerable Seck Jit Heng as well as various state leaders.
