The Jade Emperor, known as Thnee Kong in Hokkien, is considered to be the ruler of the heavens.
He is one of Chinese mythology's most important and popular deities. He is one of the highest ranking gods and the very first Chinese emperor.
The Hokkien community celebrates the birthday of the Jade Emperor, also known as Hokkien New Year or Thnee Kong Seh, on the ninth day of Chinese New Year.
Devotees place offerings to the Jade Emperor on a grand altar, including ang ku (bean paste cakes), huat kuih (prosperity cakes) and fruit.
Hokkien Taoists pay homage to the Jade Emperor God at the Chew Jetty in George Town, Penang, on the auspicious day.
The Jade Emperor is also known as the "God of Heaven" and is included in the Taoist pantheon.
In ancient China, Hokkien folk who were under attack by Mongol invaders hid in a sugarcane field on the eighth and ninth days of Chinese New Year to avoid a massacre.
They survived and are eternally grateful to the Jade Emperor.
The Pai Thnee Kong festival is celebrated by Hokkien communities worldwide.