February 27, 2026
GEORGE TOWN – About 40,000 people flooded Weld Quay to celebrate the Jade Emperor’s birthday on the eighth night of the Chinese New Year at Chew Jetty.
Starting from early evening, residents of Chew Jetty began gathering in front of the Chau Yuan Kong Temple.
Locals taking selfies before the commencement of the celebration. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
Long tables were set up and meticulously arranged with various offerings, including roasted pigs, huat kuih (prosperity cakes), pineapples and others in preparation for the arrival of the Jade Emperor.
For several years now, the celebration at Chew Jetty has refrained from setting off official fireworks or firecrackers for the safety of the massive crowd gathering there.
Fireworks seen at the site were acts of individuals and not arranged by the organizing committee.
Visitors began to trickle into the area as early as 4 pm, with the total attendance expected to surpass 30,000.
Locals seeking blessings from the Jade Emperor. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
At 6 pm, organizers distributed 1,500 packs of fried bihun, 2,000 rolls of popiah, and 300 cartons of mineral water for free.
These items were snapped up within an hour due to the overwhelming response.
This year’s Penang Jade Emperor celebration carries the theme “Hoseh Lah!” (A Hokkien expression meaning “All is good!”).
A variety of stage performances were arranged along Weld Quay to kick off the night’s festivities.
The line-up of entertainment included cultural dances, Chinese orchestral music, martial arts performance and high-pole lion dances.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the celebration was not only an important religious tradition for the local Hokkien community but also one of Penang’s signature festive events reflecting the state’s multicultural harmony.
“The celebration allows both locals and visitors to experience the richness of Hokkien culture and traditions,” he said in his speech during the event.