Fun on the street without fear of being run over

What say you on the issue below?

IT was only 7am but the streets of George Town namely Beach Street already saw a flurry of activities albeit without the hustle and bustle of vehicles. This was the second week of the Penang Car-Free Day which was launched on Dec 11.

Roads such as Beach Street, Church Street Ghaut, Church Street and part of Bishop Street were closed to traffic from 7am to 5pm.

To mark the event, some 200 people from all over Penang including those from the mainland took to the streets and danced to upbeat songs in a line dancing event near the Logan Heritage building.

They included Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng who joined in the fun.

Children and senior citizens gyrated to fast numbers by artistes such as Pitbull, Lady Gaga and The Wondergirls.

Fresh air: Participants in the line dancing event.

Lim said to “spice” things up in Penang, the streets that are closed to traffic every Sunday will be used to cater for creative and recreational activities for Penangites.

“Now Penangites can have a platform to showcase their talent here (Beach Street) without the risk of being run over by passing vehicles.

“Instead of going to the good old Municipal Park which is getting more congested, they can opt to come here every week to meet friends and take part in healthy activities,” Lim said to reporters after sweating it out in the 40-minute line dance event.

He said Penangites can take to the streets to enjoy activities such as inline skating, line dancing and even sell their creative works such as handicraft and artwork.

“I will try my best to be here every Sunday. I can also see those who wish to meet me personally,” he said.

The event also piqued the interest of Australian Cole Bennets, 30, who was seen photographing the event.

The freelance photo-journalist from Canberra said the first thing he noticed upon his arrival in Penang last week was the traffic congestion.

“The Car-Free Day is a good idea.

“Penang is a beautiful island with many interesting places to see.

“Many of these attractions are within walking distance,” he said.