Penang Youth Peace Culture Festival Illuminates Vision of Peace through Creativity and Action

On 7 and 20 December 2025, SGM Penang held two unique Youth Peace Culture Festival shows at its Bukit Tambun Culture Centre and Penang Culture Centre respectively. Themed “Shining Peace, Rising Youth,” the shows were held in a carnival format open to the public, drawing enthusiastic crowds. Running from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the carnival showcased the efforts of young people in putting peace into practice through creative action.

Entirely planned and executed by SGM Penang youths, each venue was divided into a stage performance zone and an interactive experience zone, with activities running concurrently. The stage performances were woven together through three thematic segments – “Twilight,” “Starry Night” and “Hope” – featuring a diverse array of dance, martial arts, music and ensemble pieces performed by various youth groups.

The interactive experience zone catered to all ages, featuring creative stalls, art exhibitions, food trucks, games, a DIY eco-friendly LED cup workshop and dedicated areas for families and children. Many of these projects were led by the youth themselves; the atmosphere was both vibrant and warm, demonstrating the culture of peace in everyday life.

Lau Zheng Xian, who came with a friend, remarked that he had initially planned for a casual visit but was deeply moved by the powerful scene of the entire crowd singing “Running” together. He highly commended the growth of the youth throughout the planning and execution process, noting that this positive “wave of peace” deserves recognition and support.

Another visitor, Seah Chun Aun, originally attended to watch his friend’s lion dance performance but was unexpectedly captivated by the infectious energy of the youth. He described the rhythmic performances as exhilarating, allowing him to feel the vitality of peace amid the celebration.

The event attracted approximately 4,000 participants, mobilising 382 performers and 291 event staff – a profound testament to the collective strength and teamwork of the youth.

Prayers Amidst the Rain – A Shared Victory of Growth

The 2025 culture festival was held as an outdoor market carnival for the first time, making the weather the greatest uncertainty. To address this, the organising committee initiated weekly online chanting sessions every Tuesday from the early stages of preparation, with members across Penang uniting in prayer for the event’s absolute success.

During the dress rehearsal on 6 December, the team was met with a torrential downpour. However, through the united prayers of the performers and members, the rain gradually ceased. This experience allowed everyone to deeply feel the power of their practice and inspired them to continue their prayers leading up to the official performance, approaching the festival with unwavering conviction.

Ong Yew Sheng, who participated in the event as a member of a performance troupe, shared that he joined the festival after being invited by a senior in school. Over three months of rehearsals, he overcame the pressure of balancing a part-time job with his training. Supported by the warmth of the team, he regained his confidence on stage. He remarked that this journey of mutual support was something he cherished even more than the performance itself.

Reported by Eng Joo Min and Leang Hui Si, photographed by Lee Chin Kuan, Shaun Tye Chuen-Han and Yeow Chee Sing