The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has announced a three-day ban on the sale of alcohol during this year’s Thaipusam celebration. The decision, outlined in a letter dated January 22 to establishments serving alcohol, aimed to facilitate an “orderly and peaceful” observance of the Thaipusam festival.
According to MalayMail, the letter, addressed to premises from Queen Street to Jalan Air Terjun, stated that the directive was based on the recommendations from the Thaipusam Celebration Preparation meeting held on December 14, chaired by the Chairman of the Penang Hindu Endowment Board.
The MBPP emphasised that the ban on selling alcoholic beverages would be enforced from January 24 to January 26, aligning with the Thaipusam celebration period. Businesses failing to comply with this directive risk facing the revocation of their business licenses without further notice.
Penang Hindu Endowment Board chairman RSN Rayer, on Sunday, disclosed that approximately one million Hindu devotees are expected to gather in Penang from January 24 to 26 for the Thaipusam festival.
Notably, this year’s celebration will feature both the gold and silver chariots in a unified procession to the temple in Jalan Kebun Bunga, signifying a moment of unity.
In addition to the alcohol ban, Rayer urged participants to uphold the sanctity of the religious celebration by refraining from activities such as consuming alcohol or lighting firecrackers.
The MBPP’s measure aimed to ensure a respectful and serene environment during the Thaipusam festivities.
As the vibrant and significant Thaipusam celebration approaches, the Penang community prepares for a unique and unified commemoration, emphasizing cultural richness and spiritual devotion.
