CJMY
The 2024 Miao Hui celebration is set to grace the heritage precinct of George Town on February 18, 2024, from 4 pm to 11 pm, marking the ninth day of the Chinese lunar calendar.
This significant event, lauded by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, is organised by the Penang Chinese Clan Council (PCCC) and the Penang Cultural Inheritors Society (Inheritors).
It will encompass 12 streets within the George Town heritage area, featuring the participation of over 20 ancestral halls, guild halls, and temples, many of which boast a century-old legacy.
The primary focus of Miao Hui is to showcase the customs and cultural practices inherited from ancestors and to share the historical narratives of Penang’s pioneers, their occupations, and industries.
Miao Hui to ignite interest of the younger generation
The 2024 Miao Hui celebration represents an annual dedication to preserving and sharing Penang’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a testament to the enduring success of the event, which has been a cultural mainstay since its inception in 1999.
The goal of this celebration is to ignite the interest of the younger generation in cultural heritage while garnering steadfast support from the state government.
The Miao Hui event has grown and evolved over the past 25 years, earning recognition as a well-known cultural brand. Its significance lies in its ability to connect generations and share the stories and traditions that have shaped Penang’s unique identity.
Chow envisions taking Miao Hui to the global stage, aiming to establish it as an internationally renowned brand. To achieve this goal, the state government is committed to formulating policies and strategies that build upon the dedicated efforts of the organisers, elevating Miao Hui to international recognition.
Organising chairman Leong Keng Fei expresses his gratitude for the trust placed in the Penang Chinese Clan Council and Penang Cultural Inheritors Society.
More than 40 exhibition teams have been established to curate the cultural aspects of each clan association, street, and stage, enriching the narrative of “Our Story.”
Weaving the tales of Penang’s ancestors
The theme for the 2024 Miao Hui celebration is “Our Story,” an intentional focus on preserving the cultural and industrial history established by Penang’s forebears.
The aim is to provide an opportunity for people to understand and appreciate the groundwork laid by earlier generations. This theme will help attendees reconnect with the unforgettable and beautiful memories of Penang’s past, fostering a collective resonance.
Miao Hui event master planner Chong Jian Mei highlights the extensive work undertaken by curators. This work includes interviews with seniors, site visits, research, and workshops to create a captivating and meaningful experience for the public.
The Miao Hui celebration introduces “Chen Chen,” a paper-cut dragon, as the mascot for this year. It aligns with the zodiac sign for the Year of the Dragon and serves as a tribute to the dedicated volunteers who contribute to the success of the event.
The collective efforts of organisers, volunteers, and the public are key to the success of the 2024 Miao Hui celebration. Organisers encourage the public to join the volunteer teams and become part of this cultural heritage celebration.
As it enters its 25th year, the event’s focus on “Our Story” promises to provide attendees with an opportunity to rediscover the beauty and significance of Penang’s heritage.
Source: Buletin Mutiara
Jimmy Tan
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