ARULMIGU SRI RUTHRA VEERA MUTHU MAHA MARIAMMAN DEVASTANAM
Temple website
The The Ayer Itam Mahamariamman Temple (GPS: 5.40381, 100.27925) is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Penang. Its full name is Arulmigu Sri Ruthra Veeramuthu Maha Mariamman Devasthanam. Located along Jalan Air Itam, it started as merely a small attap shrine in 1886, by the Hindu community of Ayer Itam, to worship the female deity Mariamman. In 1898, the first annual fire walking ceremony in Penang was held at the Maha Mariamman Temple. The shrine was improved to a temple in 1920, and the first Maha Kumbha Abishegam ceremony was performed in 1926.
Since 1939, the The Ayer Itam Mahamariamman Temple hosts an annual chariot procession that passes through Air Itam, Kampung Baru, Rifle Range, Kampong Pisang and Thean Teik Dstate now known as Farlim.
In 2002, the The Ayer Itam Mahamariamman Temple began a project to completely renovate the temple. New entranceway and gopuram (temple towers) were erected, new sculptures were created by artisans. The project is estimated to cost RM700,000.
Address
Sri Ruthra Veeramuthu Maha Mariamman Devasthanam
640A MK 16, Jalan Ayer Itam
11500 Penang
Getting there
The Ayer Itam Mahamariamman Temple is located within walking distance of Air Itam town. Rapid Penang Bus 201, 203, 204, 206 and 306 ply the route to Air Itam.
Dear members, family and friends,
We are writing to you on behalf of the Sri Ruthra Veera Muthu Maha Mariamman Temple in Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia. As you may know, our temple is an important cultural and spiritual center for the local community and beyond. It serves as a place of worship, community gathering, and cultural education, as well as a source of pride and identity for many.
However, like many older buildings, our temple is in need of repair and renovation to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Over the years, wear and tear have taken their toll on the structure and its various components, including the roof, walls, flooring, electrical and plumbing systems, and more. We have been working tirelessly to address these issues, but the cost of such work is significant and beyond our current means.
Therefore, we are reaching out to you for your support in the form of donations towards our repair and renovation works. Every dollar that you can contribute will help us move closer towards our goal of preserving and improving this important cultural heritage site. Your generosity will not only benefit the current generation but also the generations to come who will continue to use and cherish this temple.
We understand that times are tough, and everyone has their own financial priorities. However, we hope that you can spare whatever amount you can, no matter how small, to help us with this important endeavor. Your contributions will be greatly appreciated and will go a long way in ensuring the continued vibrancy and relevance of our temple.
Donations can be made online via our website or in-person at the temple. We will also be hosting various fundraising events and activities in the coming weeks and months, and we hope to see you there.
Thank you in advance for your support and generosity. May you and your loved ones be blessed with health, happiness and prosperity.
Sincerely,
Temple Management