The Penang State Exco for Housing and Environment, along with the Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP), the Penang State Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS), and the administration of the Sri Singamuga Kaliamman Temple in Teluk Bahang, jointly advocate against the use of synthetic foam and plastic materials by Hindu devotees during the upcoming Masi Magam Theppa Thiruvizha. This traditional floating chariot festival is scheduled to be celebrated on February 24, 2024, in Teluk Bahang, Penang.
These organizations and temple management are collectively urging followers to abstain from utilizing any form of artificial foam or plastic, emphasizing the importance of adopting eco-friendly alternatives. Every year, the 117-year-old Singamuga Kaliamman Temple in Teluk Bahang hosts the much-anticipated Floating Chariot Procession, a coastal celebration that draws in numerous worshipers. This event, which takes place by the sea, sees a lavishly adorned floating chariot illuminated with lights and adorned with flowers, carrying the temple deities. The festival entails a mesmerizing sea tour, captivating the participation and devotion of thousands of attendees.
In keeping with tradition, numerous devotees set lantern-like lights float in the sea while making wishes during the chariot procession. Typically, these lights are affixed to lightweight styrofoam and polystyrene materials for their ability to float and ease of travel on water. In past years, after the event, we have often witnessed the presence of numerous synthetic foam-based materials floating on the sea.
The day following the event often reveals hundreds of these materials, predominantly composed of foam and plastic. Unfortunately, these substances pose a significant threat to the marine ecosystem as they are major contributors to sea pollution. The main contributors, styrofoam, and polystyrene, are non-biodegradable, meaning they cannot naturally decompose into smaller, environmentally harmless components. This lack of decomposition capability exacerbates their impact on the marine environment, leading to long-lasting pollution and posing a serious risk to marine life and ecosystems.
Marine creatures, like fish and turtles, often mistakenly consume these materials as food, resulting in harm or even death. In efforts to curb marine pollution and protect sea life from detrimental impacts, the Penang State government, Consumers’ Association of Penang, Malaysia Hindu Sangam, and the temple administration are urging devotees to refrain from utilizing Styrofoam or any form of polystyrene or plastic-based materials for their lanterns.
Approximately two to three decades ago, these lights were attached to tiers of banana tree stems, a superior option as it not only floats well but also undergoes natural biodegradation in the sea. Over the years, the temple administration has actively advocated for environmentally conscious choices, and once again this year, the temple is facilitating the provision of eco-friendly alternatives. As a collective effort, Consumer’s Association Penang, in collaboration with the State government responsible for housing and environment, Penang State Malaysia Hindu Sangam, and the temple management, strongly encourages devotees to opt for safer and environmentally friendly alternatives. Consider using items such as plates crafted from betel nut tree leaves, rice husks, and banana tree stems to float the lights. These alternatives not only enhance safety but also contribute positively to the environment. The adoption of such eco-friendly practices aligns with the ongoing commitment to preserving the marine ecosystem and reducing the ecological footprint associated with traditional celebrations.
The festival, dedicated to expressing gratitude to God, Mother Nature, and the sea for the sustenance they provide, calls for a fitting celebration through environmentally conscious practices. It is only apt that we embrace eco-friendly approaches to enhance the significance of the festival. By adopting such measures, we not only pay homage to the divine forces but also demonstrate our responsibility towards preserving the very environment that sustains us. As we immerse ourselves in the festivities, let us be mindful of our impact on the ecosystem and choose practices that align with our collective duty to protect the natural world. Devotees are encouraged to take note of this call for environmentally friendly celebration, ensuring that our expressions of gratitude are harmoniously intertwined with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship.
Source: Consumers’ Association of Penang
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