ST GEORGE’S CHURCH, PENANG CARNIVAL
SPEECH BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW
THE CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG
ST GEORGE’S CHURCH, PENANG CARNIVAL
27TH APRIL 2024
YB Lim Hui Ying
Deputy Finance Minister of Malaysia cum Member of Parliament for Tanjong
Dato' Ir. Rajendran A/L P. Anthony
Mayor of Penang Island City Council (MBPP)
The Right Reverend Dr Steven Abbarow
The Bishop of the Diocese of West Malaysia
The Right Reverend Dr Stephen Soe
The Suffragan Bishop of the Northern Region of the Diocese of West Malaysia
Members of the Parochial Church Council and all parishioners of St George’s Church
Distinguished guests,
Members of the media,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Good evening.
I am truly delighted to be here today, amidst this vibrant celebration marking the anniversary of St. George’s Church and commemorating its one-year journey as a pro-cathedral.
Reflecting on the past year, I recall being here to witness the declaration of St. George’s Church Penang as a Pro-Cathedral, a testament to its enduring legacy and pivotal role in our community since its consecration in 1819. In recognition of its longstanding dedication, the Penang State Government proudly bestowed upon St. George’s Church the Penang Centennial Excellence Award – an accolade richly deserved.
Situated at the heart of Georgetown, this church has been an integral part of the city's growth and cultural tapestry. Its elevation to pro-cathedral status signifies not only the church’s continued growth and prominence but also its unwavering commitment to serving the needs of its congregation and the wider community.
Building upon this legacy of excellence and service, it is heartening to see St. George’s Church continue its tradition of community engagement by partnering with George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) for the Georgetown Heritage Celebrations 2024. This collaboration underscores the church's commitment to preserving our cultural heritage and promoting local talent.
In the spirit of cultural enrichment, St. George’s Church is currently hosting an Art Exhibition from April 20th to May 4th, featuring works by acclaimed artists Lefty Julian and Vincent Phang. These captivating pieces offer a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Penang’s history and culture, inviting visitors to appreciate and reflect upon our shared heritage. I had the privilege of previewing these artworks earlier, and I must commend the artists for their exceptional ability to capture the essence of our beloved city.
Today, we also have the pleasure of experiencing the Carnival, which will commence shortly. It promises to be a delightful showcase of musical talent, featuring bands and choirs performing songs in English, Bahasa Malaysia, and Mandarin. Among the highlights will be performances by Rumah Victory, a drug rehabilitation centre, and the RISE Project, an initiative since 2000 dedicated to the therapeutic use of percussion for special needs children, some of whom will be performing tonight. These performances are not only to entertain but also to inspire, showcasing the transformative power of music and community engagement.
Ladies and gentlemen,
As we prepare to immerse ourselves in the festivities of the Carnival, let us not forget the underlying message of unity, inclusivity, and progress that binds us together as a community. Initiatives such as the Penang Harmony Corporation (HARMONICO) and the Penang Unity Manifesto 2023 are shining examples of our dedication to fostering harmony and understanding among all Penangites.
To bolster our efforts, the State Government has allocated RM1.3 million to HARMONICO for 2024. This funding will fuel interfaith dialogues and cultural exchanges, enriching our community fabric through diverse engagement activities and programmes. Additionally, the RM10 million allocation outlined in the Unity Manifesto reaffirms our unwavering commitment to preserving Non-Islamic Places of Worship (RIBI) until 2028. I am pleased to announce significant progress in this endeavour. Since reassuming office last year, the Penang Non-Islamic Places of Worship Trust Fund Committee (TARIBI) has diligently reviewed and approved numerous funding applications, totalling RM1,730,000.00. These funds will aid in the maintenance and preservation of non-Islamic places of worship across Penang, safeguarding our religious heritage for future generations.
Today, as we commemorate the church anniversary, I seize this moment to reassure you all that the State Government remains resolute in championing inclusivity and progress for all Penangites. We firmly believe that by nurturing understanding, tolerance, and cooperation among different religious communities, we can forge a stronger, more cohesive society.
Hence, I urge each and every one of you to join hands and become active participants in this journey. Together, let us celebrate our diversity, embrace our differences, and forge ahead towards a brighter future in line with the Penang2030 vision for the generations to come.
With that said, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to St. George’s Church Penang on this auspicious occasion. I commend all those who have contributed to the success of this carnival, and I express my deepest gratitude to the parishioners and volunteers for their unwavering dedication and hard work.
May this carnival serve as a beacon of hope, unity, and goodwill.
Thank you.