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A UNITY banquet has been scheduled in Bagan Ajam on April 11 to replace a Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house initially planned at the Thean Hock Keong Association temple grounds in Butterworth, which was cancelled following concerns raised by local authorities.
Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Mohamad Abdul Hamid explained that the event, organised by the Zhao Zi Long Cultural and Arts Association in collaboration with Bagan Ajam residents, will take place at Dewan Panorama Bagan Ajam.
“Therefore, upon the advice of the Penang State National Unity and Integration Department, the Penang State Islamic Religious Council has handed over all coordination matters for this unity banquet to the Penang State National Unity and Integration Department, as any events related to unity activities fall under the jurisdiction of this department,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
The decision follows reports that a Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house proposed by the Thean Hock Keong Association at Jalan Pantai Bersih had been ordered cancelled.
Mohamad noted that the Penang Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAIPP) received a complaint from the Persatuan Anak Jati Melayu Pulau Pinang regarding the planned event.
“The matter involved a poster that caused confusion among the public,” he said, adding that JHEAIPP subsequently issued a directive on March 31 instructing the temple to cancel the open house.
He emphasised that Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations are religious activities of the Muslim community and require the approval of the Penang State Islamic Religious Council.
“The association complied with JHEAIPP’s directive and cancelled the programme,” he said.
Ng Choong Seong, secretary of the Thean Hock Keong Association, said the event had been intended to foster unity, strengthen community ties, and promote harmony.
He stressed there was no intention to provoke sensitivities and that the programme had been planned following advice from the Penang National Unity and Integration Department, including consultations with local mosque and surau leaders and community representatives who had expressed support.
“All food served is fully halal and prepared by catering services owned by local residents, as a show of support for the local community,” Ng said.
He added that the association had amended the event poster after receiving feedback that the original title and venue were inappropriate, but nevertheless respected JHEAIPP’s decision to cancel the open house. - April 8, 2026
