Thomas Tan
The Hokkiens Chinese dialect group of the Taoist faith in the country usher in the Jade Emperor God’s birthday celebrations (Thni Kong Seh) today, February 18, 2013.
Devotees pay homage to the deity at the Jade Emperor God temples or set up their own altars with offerings including sugarcane stalks on the eve of the Jade Emperor God’s birthday.
Firecrackers and colorful fireworks lit the night’s skies on the eve of the Jade Emperor God’s birthday.
At the Jade Emperor God Temple (or known as Yoke Wong Thai Tay Temple) in Section 21 SEA Park, Petaling Jaya, the Thnee Kong Seh celebrations started on the eve of the Jade Emperor God’s birthday with hundreds of devotees thronged the famous temple to pay homage to the deity.
There were lion and dragon performances to entertain the Gods and the people as well as spread happines, longevity and good fortune.
Among those present at the celebrations were Yoke Wong Thai Tay temple committee president Richard Sha, Petaling Jaya Utara Community Service Centre chairman Dr Wong Sai Hou, Kampung Tunku coordinator and state liaison officer Kelvin Chong and Section 21 SEA Park Residents Association chairman Gan Keng,
“I am happy to be here. This temple is about 40 years old and served the needs of the Taoist community living in the areas as a place of worship and spiritual guidance.” said Kelvin Chong.
“As leaders in Kampung Tunku state constituency, it is our duty to pay a visit to all the elderly and the temples here. We wish that the Yoke Wong Thai Tay Temple here will bring continuing blessings upon our country and people especially our city Petaling Jaya.”
He added that “for the Taoists, today is a great day for all to come together to offer prayers to the Jade Emperor God on his birthday to receive his blessings of good things and good fortune for everyone to make a peaceful and happy living.”
“I brought my son here today to get blessings from Jade Emperor God for his study and to get good grades.”
CJMY
