Edmund Lee Tat Weng
Devotees in Kampar old town are gearing up for the nine-day Nine Emperor Gods Festival which begins today at the Sum Sun Sin See temple.
The deities are believed to be the nine sons of Tou Mu, the Goddess of the North Star. During this period, devotees observe a strict vegetarian diet and participate in a number of rituals.
“Every year, this temple serves free vegetarian meals from lunch till dinner as Kampar doesn’t have many vegetarian restaurants,” said Betty Seah, a devotee.
“On the last day of the festival, a fire-walking ceremony is held. There will also be a float procession, to send off the Nine Emperor Gods.”
She said the temple, which has a rich and long history, is headed by the third generation of a family of caretakers.
Another devotee, who wished to be known only as Sim, said he lends a helping hand when the festival comes around each year.
“I join others in cleaning up the temple and participate in the prayers at night. It is important for me to be a vegetarian for the full 
nine days, as I have made a wish to the deities,” he added.
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