Penang, 14th September 2024 — Penang is set to come alive with vibrant colours, energetic dance, and a celebration of cultural fusion as the Penang Yosakoi Parade 2024 takes centre stage at Karpal Singh Drive. The event, which promises to be the biggest Yosakoi celebration in Southeast Asia, was officially announced during a press conference held today, attended by members of the media, esteemed guests, and various stakeholders.
YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE), welcomed the attendees and expressed his excitement for the upcoming festivities. He highlighted that the Yosakoi Parade is not merely a cultural event but a testament to Penang’s dynamic and multicultural identity. “Penang has long been recognized as a melting pot where diverse cultures coexist and blend harmoniously,” YB Wong stated. “Our heritage is rich with influences from across the globe, making Penang an international city that attracts people from all walks of life.”
The Penang Yosakoi Parade, organized by the Yosakoi Parade Committee and spearheaded by Ms. Emi Yamazaki, is set to take place on the 14th of September, coinciding with the start of the Term 2 school holidays and a long weekend in Malaysia. The event is supported by PETACE, the office of ADUN Sungai Pinang, Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang (MBPP), and TEXCHEM.
This year’s parade is particularly significant as it reflects the city’s ability to embrace new cultural influences while staying true to its roots. Unlike the traditional Bon Odori, Yosakoi is a modern street dance that allows for a contemporary interpretation of Japanese culture, blending seamlessly with Penang’s local heritage. “It’s this ability to adapt and integrate different cultures that makes Penang not just a city of diversity, but a city of unity through diversity,” YB Wong remarked.
The Yosakoi Parade has also become a beloved event for Penang’s youth, who find in it a creative outlet for their passion for choreography, costume design, and energetic dance. This enthusiasm underscores the event’s appeal not just within Penang but across Malaysia, drawing participants and visitors from all over the country and beyond.
Ms. Emi Yamazaki, the founder of Penang Yosakoi, will share more about how the event is “Inspired by Japan, Uniquely Penang,” during the parade. The event is expected to attract significant attention, further cementing Penang’s reputation as a hub for cultural tourism.
In closing, YB Wong extended an invitation to all to experience the vibrant spirit of Penang at the Yosakoi Parade. “As they say in Southern Japan, ‘YO-SA-KOI,’ which means ‘Come at night.’ We invite everyone to join us for an unforgettable evening that celebrates creativity, culture, and the unique spirit of Penang—a city where the world meets.”
The Penang Yosakoi Parade 2024 promises to be a night of spectacular performances and a celebration of the cultural diversity that makes Penang truly unique.
