15,000 turn up in traditional attire for Penang's Keretapi Sarong

George Town welcomed nearly 15,000 individuals from various backgrounds to the Keretapi Sarong celebration, held in conjunction with Malaysia Day. Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, participants reveled in the event's day-long festivities at the Penang Museum Ferry grounds. The celebration showcased Malaysia's rich cultural diversity through traditional performances and games, with many attendees eager to share the heritage with others.

For 27-year-old teacher Chai Chon Keat, the event offered a rare opportunity to showcase a lesser-known aspect of Chinese traditional attire – Hanfu. Chai, who hails from Taiping, had heard about Keretapi Sarong activities in Kuala Lumpur but was thrilled to finally participate. He described the experience as both beautiful and enriching, and expressed his desire to attend similar events in the future.

Another first-timer, 18-year-old pharmacy diploma student Hanushini Vijay Kumar, turned heads in traditional Indian attire. She expressed her excitement at witnessing such a diverse display of traditional clothing and hinted at a bright future for her participation in the celebration. Younger participants, such as 15-year-old Nuri Umairah Mohamad Yusni, also contributed to the colorful atmosphere, choosing traditional Chinese wedding outfits for the occasion.

Nur Alya Ayuni Mohd Hafiz, a 19-year-old Form Six student, attended the event after being encouraged by friends. The celebration allowed her to experience traditional clothing in a new and exciting setting, and she expressed her enthusiasm for future events. The Keretapi Sarong celebration provided a unique platform for young Malaysians to come together and celebrate the nation's cultural diversity.