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  Only eight "divine pigs" take part in this year's competition, the least in history. Photo courtesy: Sin Chew Daily

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  The champion "divine pig" weighs 429 catties, large enough to spread across the entire table, but still 53 catties lighter than last year's champion. Photo courtesy: Sin Chew Daily

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PENANG: Thanks to the sluggish economy, even the "divine pigs" need to slim down!

A unique "divine pig" competition takes place every year at Batu Gantung, Penang, on the 15th day of the 11th lunar month.

Although the event has been going on for over half a century now, it still lures the attention of local residents.

Eight meaty pigs take part in this year's event, and after weighing, the one weighing 429 catties claims the title, with the runners-up at 427 and 408 catties.

Although the sizes of these pigs are awe-inspiring, they pale when compared to last year's champion, which weighed a whopping 482 catties, with runners-up at equally mind-boggling weights of 479 and 460!

During its heyday, the event saw the participation of almost 30 "divine pigs."

Other than the "divine pig" competition, a worship ceremony is also held in honour of the Heavenly God. (Translated by DOMINIC LOH/Sin Chew Daily)