Penang’s Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development, Soon Lip Chee, addressed concerns over online messages claiming that firecrackers should not be used during the Bai Tian Gong festival. Speaking at a public ceremony in the Chung surname clan village, he encouraged people to embrace cultural practices freely.
“Come to Penang to celebrate culture. Embrace freedom of religion here, because Penang is a diverse society and a bastion of democracy,” Soon said. He added that Malaysia’s beauty lies in its diversity, vibrancy, and taste, and warned against extremists undermining multicultural harmony.
State Government Reviews Temporary Land Titles To Protect Clan Village Residents
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the government’s plan to review existing temporary land title regulations to ensure that residents of the clan village will not be forced to relocate when renewing their leases. “We aim for a win-win solution: securing residents’ rights, preserving culture, and supporting development,” he said.
Chow noted that many residents spend thousands of ringgit annually on maintenance of their stilt houses despite financial and practical challenges. “The state government values your commitment and will continue to review land policies to protect residents while supporting development,” he said.
He also praised the Bai Tian Gong festival as one of Penang’s most iconic Lunar New Year events, blending traditional rituals with modern innovation to rejuvenate cultural heritage.
Leaders Emphasize Courage And Responsibility In Governance
Penang leader Lim Guan Eng urged politicians to act boldly and responsibly, saying, “This year is crucial for our government as we advance our reform agenda. It’s a time to speak up and act decisively.” He stressed that good governance must remain people-centered and principled.
State assembly member Lim Hui Ying highlighted that cultural development depends on active community participation. “The roots of culture lie in the people, associations, and communities. Only through collective effort can multicultural traditions be preserved and passed down,” she said.
Clan Village Residents Are “Living Heritage”
Wang Yu Hang described the lives of residents in the Chung surname clan village as the city’s “living heritage.” He emphasised that as long as the people remain, traditions endure, but if the community disperses, cultural practices fade. He called for the land authority to reconsider temporary lease regulations to prevent depopulation and preserve the community.
Village head Chow Tek Keong added that preserving culture requires the collective effort of the community, not just the bridge itself. He thanked all supporters, particularly the Penang state government and Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, for their continued support of the clan village and its cultural heritage.
