Penang’s latest initiative to promote unity and religious harmony is the newly launched ‘Harmony Street’ in Bayan Baru. Joining a number of similar streets in the state, this vibrant project reinforces Penang’s multicultural reputation and its long-standing commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow officiated the launch, highlighting the state’s dedication to creating spaces that promote religious harmony. The Bayan Baru ‘Harmony Street’ now stands alongside other locations such as Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling in George Town, Bukit Mertajam, and Seberang Jaya, serving as symbols of the state’s religious diversity and unity. Chow also revealed plans for a future ‘Harmony Street’ in Butterworth, with a plot of land already allocated for the project.

In Bayan Baru, six places of worship are part of this newly established street, including Ban Ka Lan Snake Temple, Sri Visvanather Sri Visalatchi Kuil, Charismatic Church, Gurdwara Sahib Bayan Baru, Than Hsiang Temple, and Surau Al-Ubudiah. Chow emphasized that these initiatives play a crucial role in bringing together people from different religious and cultural backgrounds, creating a more united and harmonious society.

The project was originally developed by the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) in the 1970s. Since then, the area has evolved into a thriving hub of interfaith activities. The state government, through the Penang Harmony Corporation (Harmonico), has allocated RM1.3 million towards these efforts.

Furthermore, Penang has developed the eRIBI database, which currently lists nearly 1,500 non-Islamic places of worship. This system is a one-stop centre for managing these sites and ensuring their proper maintenance.

State leaders hope that these initiatives will continue to foster inclusivity, promote unity, and strengthen community bonds in Penang.