Penang is set to host an estimated one million Hindu devotees for the Thaipusam 2024 celebrations from January 24 to 26. The Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) Chairman, RSN Rayer, announced that this year’s celebration, dubbed ‘Thaipusam of Unity,’ will witness both gold and silver chariots in the procession towards Jalan Kebun Bunga temple, symbolizing unity. The two chariots will proceed almost simultaneously, maintaining a distance of about one kilometer from each other, aiming to reach the temple by 11 pm.
Rayer emphasized the importance of a faster-paced procession, recalling past delays where chariots took nearly 24 hours to arrive. He made these remarks while accompanying Human Resources Minister Steven Sim at the Kesuma Madani program, part of the Thaipusam 2024 celebrations at the Waterfall Hill Temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga.
The celebration will feature 150 ‘thaneer panthal’ (refreshment stalls) along the procession route, offering free food and drinks to attendees. Rayer mentioned that the golden chariot will begin its journey from the Lebuh Queen temple at 5.30 am on January 24, followed by the silver chariot an hour later from the Lebuh Penang temple. Both will return to their respective temples on January 26.
Rayer highlighted Thaipusam’s appeal beyond the Hindu community, attracting foreign tourists as well. He urged participants to respect the sanctity of the festival, advising against alcohol consumption and firecracker usage. Additionally, he appealed for responsible parking to avoid emergency situations and encouraged the use of public transport, reminding that free bus and ferry feeder services will be available. If you are planning to visit Penang for the festivities, book your Singapore to Penang bus tickets on redBus!
He also recommended face masks for high-risk individuals, particularly the elderly, and advised early arrival for those performing religious rituals in the Thaipusam 2024 celebrations.
