AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THAI FESTIVAL 2017

SPEECH BY CHIEF MISNISTER OF PENANG 
AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THAI FESTIVAL 2017

8 SEPTEMBER 2017
PADANG KOTA LAMA

 

I am very pleased to be here to launch the Thai Festival 2017 in Penang which starts today until Sunday, 10th September. The Royal Thai Consulate-General has once again brought “Thailand” to Penang in front of us and I would like to welcome all the Thai participants to our beautiful Penang.

This year is auspicious as it also marks the “60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Thailand”. It is also an eventful year for Penang to mark the 60th anniversary with Penang having the honour to receive Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in July and playing host to the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra this past Monday. And it is fitting that we conclude the anniversary celebration with the Thai Festival that strenghthens the bond of friendship and cultural ties between both countries.

Once again, Penangites will be able to enjoy various kind of authentic Thai foods and fruits and a variety of high quality Thai halal products. There will also be Thai cultural dances performed daily.

Penang’s endeavour to become a cosmopolitan international city that embraces modernity while retaining its old world charm and traditions of various cultures has indeed been augmented substantially by Thai culture and contribution of the Thai people in Penang.

I am certain that during these coming days our Thai guests will enjoy being in Penang as much as the Penangites enjoy all the Thainess presented here.

I wish the Thai Festival 2017 a great success!

Thank you.