Creative beat: Malaysia’s first-ever rendition of ‘Jingle Bells’ performed using 24 Chinese drums for the first time. The groundbreaking act captivated the audience and set a new standard for creative celebrations.
BUTTERWORTH: The state-level Christmas celebration was an enchanting evening that left many in awe, especially when the Boys’ Brigade from Chung Ling High School and SMK St Mark performed a rendition of Jingle Bells with 24 Chinese drums for the first time.
The captivating performance was undoubtedly the highlight of the event, which was held for the first time at Padang Dataran Pemuda Merdeka here.
Previous Christmas celebrations were typically hosted on the island, at venues such as Fort Cornwallis or the Esplanade.
The celebration, held from 5pm to 10pm on Saturday, was filled with festive joy, featuring a live band and choir performances, a vibrant Christmas market and Christmas-themed shows.
The field was transformed into a stunning Christmas wonderland with dazzling lights and colourful decorations, while visitors were treated to a variety of delicious food from food trucks and local vendors.
The theme, “Tidings of Great Joy”, aimed to capture the true essence of Christmas – spreading love, hope and joy to the community.
The event was a collaborative effort between the Penang government, Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico), the Christian Federation of Malaysia (Penang Chapter), local churches and the Seberang Perai City Council.
In his speech, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the event not only brought Malaysians from all walks of life together in celebration but also reinforced the values of love, unity and hope that bind the people of Malaysia.
He described the event as a testament to the state’s harmonious diversity and a fitting moment to reflect on Penang’s remarkable journey this year.
Looking ahead to 2025, Chow highlighted transformative projects such as the Penang Silicon Island, Northern TechValley @ BKE, the Bayan Lepas Light Rail Transit and other key components of the Penang Transport Master Plan.
He also mentioned the Penang Water Contingency Plan 2030, which also promises to redefine the state’s future.
“Let me take this opportunity to reaffirm the state government’s unwavering commitment to unity, which is and will always be the foundation of our shared success.
“Let tonight’s celebration remind us of the timeless values Christmas represents – peace, love and hope.“By embracing these principles, we can create a future filled with opportunities for all,” he said.
Chow also pointed out that the values of Christmas closely aligned with Penang2030’s vision of a harmonious and inclusive society.
Also present were state assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, state excos Lim Siew Khim and Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo, former chief minister Lim Guan Eng, state assemblymen, event organising chairman Bishop Stephen Soe and Harmonico general manager Paul Au.
