GEORGE TOWN: The George Town Festival (GTF) has always been an inclusive event with the participation of both local and international talent, says Chow Kon Yeow.
The Penang Chief Minister said the festival's previous programmes have included various communities and this year is no different.
He was responding to a recent uproar over a GTF 2024 promotional video which was criticised for not featuring elements of Malay culture and heritage.
He said the organisers had acknowledged their mistake, promptly removed the video and also issued an apology.
Despite having a shorter run of only 10 days, GTF 2024 will feature over 80 performances, exhibitions, workshops and more, held at various venues across the city and beyond.
Chow said nine different Malay groups are participating involving 81 performers.
"Penang has another celebration focusing on local communities, the George Town Heritage Celebrations (GTHC), with 100% local content.
"On the other hand, GTF combines local and international elements. It's about striking a balance," he said.
He also dismissed calls to dissolve George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI), who are GTF project owners, over the controversy.
"This is an unreasonable demand," Chow said, pointing to the organisation's achievements and recognition from global bodies such as Unesco over its 16 years of existence.
"Under GTWHI, George Town was named the best-managed world heritage site in South-East Asia.
"It should be judged on how well it safeguards George Town's heritage status. It would be unfair to dissolve it over one mistake," Chow said during the launch of GTF 2024 on Friday (July 19).
The ceremony featured a Boria performance by the Omara Boria group, titled "George Town: Kini Di Sini" in line with this year's theme "Here and Now".
The festival runs until July 28. Since its inception in 2010 as a small one-day celebration, it has grown to become one of the most significant arts and culture festivals in the Asia Pacific region, gaining plaudits from foreign visitors and press alike.