CJMY
Thousands of people from all walks of life attended the iconic Chingay, Lion and Dragon Dance Parade in Penang on Saturday night. The event saw scores of people lining the streets along Light Street to catch the thrilling stunts by Chingay performers.
The public was in awe as the parade featured colourful floats and lion and dragon dances. The grand parade started from Padang Brown, passing through several roads before ending at Lebuh Light near the Esplanade at about 9.15 pm.
The Chingay, Lion and Dragon Dance Parade is one of Penang’s most significant cultural events, celebrated annually during the Chinese New Year. It is a vibrant and colourful procession featuring a variety of acts, including the famous Chingay performers who balance tall flag poles with their foreheads and mouths and the lively lion and dragon dances. The parade symbolises the unity and diversity of Penang’s multicultural society, with participants from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak graced the event at the main stage in front of the Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce building. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow praised the state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin and his office for organising the much-awaited event. Yeoh said the parade was synonymous with Penang and hoped the celebration brought health and joy to everyone and strengthened the bond with their loved ones.
The event was initially scheduled to be held during New Year’s Eve but had to be postponed due to the flood situation in the country. Nevertheless, the turnout was impressive, with a large crowd attending the event to see the Chingay parade. Chow added that the parade showcased the identity of Penang and was a unique cultural heritage of the Chinese community with its attraction. He hoped that the tradition would continue for years to come.
The Chingay festival originated in China and was brought to Southeast Asia by early Chinese immigrants. It is celebrated in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia during the Chinese New Year and other festive occasions. The festival is a vibrant and colourful display of martial arts, acrobatics, and stunts by performers who balance objects on their heads, hands, and feet while dancing. The lion and dragon dances are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
The Chingay, Lion and Dragon Dance Parade in Penang celebrates Penang’s cultural diversity and rich heritage. The festival draws tourists worldwide and has become an important tourism product in the state. The grand parade and performances by Chingay performers and lion and dragon dancers provide a visual spectacle that showcases the beauty and vibrancy of Penang’s multicultural society.
Jimmy Tan
