GEORGE TOWN, Sept 20 — Colourful artwork, intricate kolam designs and the voices of children filled Poomarathamāl Temple in Gelugor here today as the community came together to celebrate Malaysia Day through art, culture and creativity.

The celebration, featuring a children’s colouring competition and kolam-making contest, brought together families, youngsters and residents in a lively display of community spirit and patriotism.
Jointly organised by Poomarathamāl Temple and the MIC Island Glades Gelugor branch, the programme began at about 9am with participant registration and a briefing before the competitions got underway.

The event was officiated by Dr N. Ahilan, chairman of Poomarathamāl Temple and MIC Bukit Gelugor division chairman, who is also a lawyer.
Dr Ahilan toured the competition area and took time to interact with the participants, organisers and members of the local community.

The programme also featured the singing of the national anthem, Negaraku, and the Penang state anthem, followed by welcoming remarks from the organisers.
Participants later saw their creativity put on display as judges assessed the colourful artwork and kolam designs before prizes, certificates and souvenirs were presented to the winners.

Beyond the competitions, the organisers said the programme was aimed at giving children a platform to express their creativity while strengthening ties among residents from different backgrounds.
The celebrations wrapped up with a communal lunch attended by participants, organisers and members of the community.

The event underscored how traditional art, culture and community activities can bring people together while giving Malaysia Day celebrations a distinctly local touch.