Best Place for Buddhism Calture Lovers

#tripxplorproject I visited Bukit Mertajam Tua Pek Kong Temple, situated on Jalan Pasar in the heart of Bukit Mertajam, Malaysia. This temple, established in 1879 by Hakka settlers, originally venerated the Tua Pek Kong deity, known locally as Thai Pak Kong. Over time, it expanded to include Xuan Wu and other deities, becoming a focal point for the community's spiritual and cultural life. The temple played a crucial role in the town's development, serving as a center for social gatherings and educational initiatives. In 1895, it founded Yi Xue Tang, an educational institution aimed at preserving Chinese culture and uplifting the community. This institution later evolved into Jit Sin Primary School, leaving behind a legacy of educational excellence. Tragically, on July 3, 2019, a fire originating from the adjacent food court engulfed the temple, causing severe damage. While the blaze destroyed much of the temple's structure and artifacts, meticulous restoration efforts ensued, leveraging detailed documentation of the temple's dimensions and imagery. Despite the setback, the temple was rebuilt with the retention of its original walls and pillars, thanks to the collaboration between local architects and artisans from China. Additionally, the adjacent hawker center underwent upgrades, showcasing the resilience of the community and the enduring cultural significance of the temple. Business Hours: 9:00 am : 5:30 pm Address: Jalan Pasar, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang