KUALA LUMPUR: About 2,600 people comprising members of Islamic non-governmental organisations, mosque and surau committee members and resident associations braved the rain today to take part in the 25th Annual Penang Muslim League's Maulidur Rasul Parade in George Town, Penang.
The 28 contingents included Penang Muslim League members and its affiliates. The event began at the iconic Kapitan Keling Mosque.
This year's silver jubilee parade coincided with the league's 70th anniversary.
Penang Muslum League vice-president Datuk Kader Hajah Mydin, who chaired the parade's organising committee, said the annual event has come a long way.
He said the first parade in 1999 was officiated by then-Deputy Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, and it has become a key event in Penang's Islamic calendar.
In previous years, the parade drew between 3,000 and 6,000 participants, starting at the Kapitan Keling Mosque, moving towards Komtar, and returning to the mosque.
The event is traditionally officiated by the Penang Governor and Deputy Chief Minister.
"The goal of organising the event is to honour Prophet Muhammad's (Peace Be Upon Him) birthday and his universal teachings and way of life which are exemplary and about the essence of humanity," said Kader in a statement.
He expressed the league's gratitude for the support from the Penang government, financial assistance from the State Islamic Religious Council, and contributions from the corporate sector, including Nasi Kandar restaurants.
"We appreciate the cooperation from all parties in making this event a success," said Kader.