15 May 2019 | 04:42 AM UTC
Malaysia: Vesak Day parade in George Town May 19
Malaysia will celebrate Vesak Day on May 19 with a parade and other festivities in George Town (Penang state); associated traffic and business disruptions expected
Event
Malaysians will celebrate Vesak Day (Buddha’s birthday) on Sunday, May 19. Vesak Day is a public holiday, and associated festivities will take place throughout the country. One of the largest celebrations will be the annual Vesak Day parade in George Town (Penang state). The procession will start at 18:00 (local time) at the Malaysian Buddhist Association on Burmah Road. Floats will then travel along Jalan Pangkor, Jalan Kelawai, Lorong Burmah, Peel Avenue, Jalan Macalister, Jalan Anson, and Lorong Madras before ending on Burmah Road around 22:00. According to media reports, up to 15,000 people may attend the celebration. Associated transportation and commercial disruptions are expected around the parade route.
Advice
Individuals in George Town, and Malaysia in general, are advised to respect local custom, anticipate crowded conditions and disruptions to government services and commercial activity.
