Malaysia Boosts Tourism: Penang’s Kek Lok Si Temple Light Festival Shines as Brilliantly as Taiwan’s

Aside from being one of Malaysia’s important Buddhist temples, Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang is also a renowned tourist attraction. (Image / Malaysian Tourism Board)

Fireworks will also be launched during the Lunar New Year light festival. (Image / Malaysian Tourism Board)

The classic mural of an elder sister and younger brother riding a bicycle together is one of Penang’s most iconic images. (Image / Malaysian Tourism Board)

Recently, Penang has become an alternative “photo-taking” hotspot. Those who frequently browse Instagram will surely recognize the mural of “siblings riding a bicycle together.” This rustic yet heartfelt artwork is actually located in Penang, Malaysia. But Penang has much more to offer—apart from its rich cultural scenery and delightful cuisine, the area, home to many Chinese communities, is also adorned with festive lights and bustling with joy in celebration of the upcoming Lunar New Year.

Every Lunar New Year, Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang holds the Kek Lok Si Display of Lights, which has been running for 37 years. This year’s light festival runs from February 11 to March 15. On the night of the lighting ceremony, over 10,000 LED lights will be illuminated, and a nearly three-minute fireworks display will light up the sky, welcoming the Year of the Dog with dazzling lights and a spectacle of fireworks.

Kek Lok Si Temple is located in Air Itam on Penang Island. Built against a hillside, the temple spans 12 hectares and is one of Malaysia’s significant Buddhist temples, as well as one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. With Chinese people making up 40% of Penang’s population, the Lunar New Year light festival held at this famous Buddhist temple in Penang fully showcases traditional Chinese culture. Devotees from near and far flock to the 125-year-old Kek Lok Si Temple for worship. The event, enhanced with innovative and modern lighting decorations, captivates both locals and tourists, immersing them in the festive atmosphere of the New Year.