Penang’s Wadda Gurdwara Sahib to shine again 

The historic Wadda Gurdwara Sahib, a Sikh temple in George Town, is finally set to receive a much-needed restoration after years of delays.

Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo visited the site and assured the project’s completion within 24 months.

Work begins at Wadda Gurdwara Sahib

During the visit, Jagdeep announced the project’s total cost of approximately RM6 million. He expressed appreciation for the state government’s RM1 million contribution.

Datuk Seri Mahinder Singh Dulku, chairman of the Wadda Gurdwara Sahib conservation and restoration committee, revealed that an additional RM2.6 million has already been raised.

“Despite the challenges, including adhering to strict Unesco guidelines for heritage building restoration, we are committed to fulfilling our promise to the Sikh community,” declared Datuk Seri Mahinder Singh Dulku.

He commended the state government’s ongoing support for various places of worship, highlighting an RM11 million allocation distributed across all five Penang districts.

A project with personal significance

Jagdeep acknowledged the restoration’s delay due to unforeseen circumstances. He highlighted that initial work began before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The project holds a personal significance for Jagdeep, whose late father, Karpal Singh Deo, resided nearby. Jagdeep himself frequented the gurdwara as a child.

“This project is undertaken in memory of my late father,” stated Jagdeep.

He has a history of successful restorations for gurdwaras in Seberang Perai and Bayan Baru, alongside other initiatives.

Joining Jagdeep on the visit were key members of the restoration committee, including co-chairman Datuk Malkit Singh, Persatuan Wadda Gurdwara Sahib president Santok Singh, and committee member Datuk Surinder Singh.

Mahinder expressed optimism regarding a fundraising golf tournament planned for Hatyai this weekend, followed by a gala dinner in Penang scheduled for November. The dinner aims to raise an additional RM2.5 million to RM3 million.

He further expressed gratitude to Datin Seri Utama Gurmit Kaur, the late Karpal Singh Deo’s wife, who serves as the committee’s advisor.

“This project’s commencement marks a historic day,” declared Mahinder Singh. “We are honored to have the son of Penang’s esteemed figure, Karpal Singh Deo, overseeing this endeavor.”

He concluded by thanking all contributors who have ensured the preservation of this heritage building, a source of pride for all Penangites regardless of race or religion.

Source: Buletin Mutiara