THE 119-year-old Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang has become a night attraction during this Chinese New Year festive season with visitors thronging its grounds to snap photos of themselves amidst a backdrop of over 10,000 lanterns and 230,000 decorative bulbs that adorn the temple complex.

Photographic Society of Penang adviser Song Jin Teik, 72, said the temple had always been a haven for enthusiastic shutterbugs during this time of the year as it was only then that it would be so beautifully lit up.

“My friends from other states and countries always ask me to bring them to our ‘secret spot’ to capture the best view of the colourful pagodas and ornate rooftops in dazzling multi-coloured lights,” he said.

Temple trustee Datuk Steven Ooi said the crowd visiting the temple complex had doubled this year compared to the Chinese New Year season last year.

“Many of them came with the purpose of enjoying the night view, especially following the completion of the 20-storey pavilion housing the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin) statue,” he said when contacted recently.

Among the visitors were couple Janet Tan and Bryan Moh, both 25, who would make it an annual affair to visit the temple during the Chinese New Year season.

“It is always a must-do thing during Chinese New Year to come here and snap some beautiful photos.

“This year is definitely more worthwhile since we also get to take photos with the pavilion,” said graphic artist Moh.

The temple had recently earned three entries in the Malaysia Book of Records — the tallest pavilion at 89.23m, the tallest bronze Goddess of Mercy statue at 33.67m, and the tallest granite pillars at 42.24m.

Night visits are allowed only during the first 28 days of the new lunar year which started on Feb 14.

From now till March 13, the festive lights will be switched on from 7pm to 10pm.

The Star Online

Thursday March 4, 2010