Categories: Festivals & Events

Why is Penang Governor’s Birthday celebrated in Malaysia?

The birthday of the Governor of Penang falls on Saturday, July 9th, 2022 in Malaysia.

The Penang state history traces all the way back to the 18th century when the British were involving Malaysia. Penang is among the four states under the parliamentary government system and the governor is the Head of State.

Thus, consistently the second Saturday of July, residents celebrate Penang Governor’s birthday. This is to mark the birthday of His Excellency the Governor in Malay-Tang di-Pertua Negeri Pulau Pinang.

The Penang Governor’s Birthday is noticed consistently Saturday in July. Penang is one of simply four states of Malaysia to have a non-hereditary head of state. The governor is rather appointed by the King of Malaysia.

Penang Governor is the head of the state of Penang, and it is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia with a conference with the Chief Minister of Penang.

One of only a handful of exceptional Malaysian states to have a non-hereditary head of state, Penang’s governor is appointed by the King of Malaysia. The main event of this holiday is a grand parade, however, the holiday likewise features a feast for the governor, as well as a cake-cutting ceremony.

History of the Birthday of the Governor of Penang

Penang is located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. A former British crown colony, Penang is one of just four Malaysian states without a hereditary monarchy. The head of the state of Penang is the Governor, referred to in Malay as Yang di-Pertua Negeri.

The governor is appointed by the King of Malaysia. The current Governor of Penang is Abdul Rahman Abbas, who accepted office in 2001 and has been reappointed six times since.

Abdul Rahman Abbas was brought into the world on April 15th, 1938, so the date of this holiday is honorific, however, it was likely established to check the birthday of a past Yang di-Pertua Negeri. The office of governor was established in August 1957 when Malaysia acquired its independence.

The day is celebrated with a grand parade followed by a feast and cake cutting by the Governor.

Consistently Saturday in July is a public holiday for Penang Governor’s Birthday. The governor is appointed by the King of Malaysia. On this day, the governor would be giving out awards, and the honorary title of “Datuk” to worthy individuals.

Raeesa Sayyad

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