The 6th Malaysia Twa Peh Kong Festival in Penang - Photohunt

PhotoHunt theme : Entwine/ Hot

On an official trip to Penang in mid September, we found ourselves caught in traffic jams, queues and crowds wherever we went. 3 major events were held over that weekend. I was fortunate to observe and participate in one of the events.

The 6th Malaysia Twa Peh Kong Festival (第六届马来西亚大伯公节) was organized by Poh Hock Seah in George Town. The Chinese community believes that Twa Peh Kong blesses the people with health and prosperity. More than 165 Tua Pek Kong temples participated, with delegates from overseas and all over Malaysia arriving at the Poh Hock Seah temple in a grand entrance.

This group rocked the sedan chair hard in front of the temples they passed. I was amazed by the strength and stamina of the men.

While observing the ceremony outside Poh Hock Seah, an elderly local who was standing next to me, told us the origin of this festival. Fascinating stories. :)

Many more groups (different coloured T-shirts identified groups) arrived with their offerings and Twa Peh Kong.

Last held in Bintulu, Sarawak, this three-day Twa Peh Kong festival was held for the first time in Penang. The festive celebration's highlight was the Twa Peh Kong's Procession with over 55 decorated floats on the night of 14 September.

offerings of roasted pigs

There were several downpours within 3 hours that afternoon. But that didn't dampened the spirits of the participants, worshippers and curious onlookers.

As I followed the various groups around, I enjoyed the many beautiful features like the dragon-entwined pillars and intricately carved beams framing the entrance of some temples.

I was invited to take a look at the decoration of several floats at a nearby compound.

It was extremely hot after the rain. Fortunately, there was a coconut ice-cream stall next to Poh Hock Seah temple. A yummilicious scoop of ice-cream on a wafer cone costs RM1. The two of us had a total of 5 cones that afternoon. hahaha.....

The 6th Malaysia Twa Peh Kong Festival (13/9 - 15/9/2014)
(第六届马来西亚大伯公节)