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This temple is famous for its annual “fire ritual” during 15th of lunar calendar in predicting Penang’s economic trend.

The origin story of this temple

In 1745, three Hakka people named Chang Li, Qiu Zhao-Jin and Ma Fu Chun from Canton Province sailed to South East Asia to seek for a new life due to hardship in their hometown. They landed in Tanjung Hai Zhu at Penang Island (Today is called Tanjung Tokong) by chance due to strong wind.

Chang Li is the most knowledgeable man in many disciplines like Chinese medicine, and be a de facto leader to administer and develop the economy in the area. Tanjung Hai Zhu became a prosperous area under leadership of three close friends.

After their death, they were buried in the high bank. Local folks called Chang Li as Tua Pek Koong (First deity), Qiu Zhao-Jin as second deity and Ma Fu Chun as third deity.

In 1799, the tombstones and new temple were built, and managed by five sections (the place of origin) of Hakka people.

On 16th of second month of lunar calendar, a lot of devotees will celebrate their birthday on large scale. The temple is promoted as a tourist sight in Penang due to its cultural and heritage value by Penang government.

Tanjung Tokong is named after the existence of this old temple in the cape.

Location Map:

Address: Jalan Tokong Thai Pak Koong, Tanjung Tokong, 11200 Tanjong Bungah, Penang.

GPS Coordinates: 5.463574N, 100.307606E Show on map

Photo Gallery:

Video (In mandarin)

Posted by admin on March 3, 2011 under Tourist Attraction.