‘Heroine’ steps up to save CNY event
PCCC executive secretary to organise celebration after lack of support from Penang govt
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Chinese New Year Celebrations 2018, which has been in limbo for the past week, will be held on Feb 25.
As the celebration was in danger of being shelved following a strain between the state government and Chinese cultural groups, a “heroine” has managed to rope in 95 volunteers, 16 performers, 57 hawkers and 15 cultural units to keep it going.
Kwoh Shoo Chen (pic), who is Penang Chinese Clan Council (PCCC) executive secretary, struck out on her own and decided to organise the event in her personal capacity.
“I made an announcement that I needed volunteers on Tuesday. So far, the response has been great.
“Registration is open until Jan 10 and I hope more people will come forward. This time, the celebration will be organised by us Penangites,” she said, adding she welcomed everyone but “they must not come with a political agenda”.
Kwoh said the celebration, themed “Sear- ching For The Beauty of Penang”, will be held from 4pm to 11pm at the George Town heritage enclave along Gat Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Cannon on Feb 25, which is the 10th day of the first lunar month.
“Even Malay volunteers are joining us, making it much more special. I hope this time we can show the true spirit and meaning of being Penanglang,” she said.
Asked if other PCCC members had approached her after she announced that she would coordinate in her personal capacity, Kwoh said none had but she is ready to face their reaction.
PCCC had earlier announced it would cancel the event due to a lack of cooperation and support from the Penang government.
“We will be holding a fund-raiser for the celebration soon,” said Kwoh.
Those who wish to volunteer, or join as a performer or cultural unit can visit the Penang CNY Celebrations 2018 Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pgcny/.