The Launching Ceremony Of Thai Festival 2018

 Speech by Chief Minister Of Penang
At The Launching Ceremony Of Thai Festival 2018

24 August 2018 @ 730pm

Gurney Paragon
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Mr. Sukoom Somprasonk, Acting Consul-General of Thailand

His Excellency Iwanshah Wibisono, Consul-General of the Republic of Indonesia

His Excellency Shinichiro Kanoya Consul-General of Japan

His Excellency Lu Shiwei, Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China

Dato' Seri Khor Teng Tong, Founder/Executive Advisor of Hunza Group

Ms. Maybel Ang, Representative of Thai Airways International Public Co,.Ltd

Distinguished Guests and Media

Ladies and Gentlemen

Sawatdee-krab!

When Mr. Sukoom Somprasonk paid me a courtesy visit last week, one of the matters we discussed was whether I like Thai food and my go-to Thai restaurant in Penang. The sweet and spicy Tomyum is clearly one of the local favourites, an achievement given the fact that Penangites pride themselves for their gastronomic taste buds as well as Penang’s reputation as a highly competitive food haven.

It is therefore unsurprising that the Royal Kingdom of Thailand remains as one of the top favourite holiday destinations for Penangites and Malaysians. With strong historical and cultural links between Penang and Thailand, and the warm bonds of family and friendship between the Thais and Pe-nangites, I am honoured to be invited to today’s launching ceremony of Thai Festival 2018.

For these three days, Penangites will be able to experience and enjoy a miniature replica of Thailand right here on the island. Without having to go through immigration clearance, we now have access to an extensive range of Thai products and feast on delectable Thai cuisines, which may not usually be available here. With something for everyone, the combination of shopping and food options makes it a good treat for family outings over the weekend.

I take this opportunity to thank the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Penang for having organised the Thai Festival for many years. I am sure Thai Festival 2018 will be a wonderful event and I hope that this will continue to be something Penangites will always look forward to.

My best wishes for a successful festival ahead, and I hereby declare the Thai Festival 2018 open