GEORGE TOWN: In a significant move to support the annual 'Theppa Thiruvilla' festival, the Penang Hindu Endowments Board (PHEB) has announced the provision of a free shuttle service for devotees attending the event at the Sri Singamuga Kaliamman Temple in Teluk Bahang, Buletin Mutiara reported.
Set to take place on Feb 24, from 6pm onwards, the initiative aims to enhance the experience for attendees by easing traffic congestion and parking challenges.
PHEB commissioner K. Kumaran revealed that RapidPenang buses would be deployed to ferry devotees to and from the temple, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey for all.
"This effort is part of our commitment to support the temple in organising the festival and to ensure that devotees can participate in the celebrations without any hassle," Kumaran said during a press briefing held at the PHEB office in Jalan Macalister.
The free shuttle service, funded by a generous contribution of RM4,823 from PHEB, will operate five buses at 30-minute intervals. The service will be available from 4pm to 1am, with the pick-up point located at the Tanjung Bungah market, directly transporting attendees to and from the temple in Teluk Bahang.
During the press conference, Kumaran presented the cheque for RM4,823 to A. Kanapathy, chairman of the Sri Singamuga Kaliamman Temple. Kanapathy encouraged devotees to take advantage of the shuttle service to avoid the anticipated traffic congestion.
"As we celebrate the 227th year of the 'Theppa Thiruvilla' festival, we are grateful for the PHEB's support and hope that our devotees will make full use of this free transportation provided for the event," he said.