THE Chingay procession made a memorable debut at the 2024 National Day parade in Putrajaya showcasing a spectacular display that included balancing a giant flag alongside vibrant lion and dragon dances. This performance by 23 members of the Lion and Dragon Dances Federation Malaysia marked a significant milestone in Malaysia’s Chingay history.
The Lion and Dragon Dances Federation Malaysia general secretary Ching Xiao Fong expressed immense pride in being part of the national celebration, noting the boost in morale it provided for participants.
“Chingay is typically associated with Penang and Johor during Chinese New Year or heritage performances in temples. So, being part of the National Day parade was a profound experience for us as Malaysians,” Ching shared with Bernama after the parade at Dataran Putrajaya.
“Chingay is typically associated with Penang and Johor during Chinese New Year or heritage performances in temples. So, being part of the National Day parade was a profound experience for us as Malaysians,” Bernama quoted Ching as saying after the parade at Dataran Putrajaya today.
Moreover, Ching also expressed hope for Chingay to grow in popularity, potentially becoming a co-curricular activity in schools and involving people from all backgrounds.
The parade, themed “Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka” emphasised national unity.
Last December, netizens widely praised the organisers of the Penang Chingay Festival after the event was paused to allow for the Azan (Muslims’ call to prayer). The organisers explained that the band stopped playing during the prayer as a mark of respect for Muslims who participated in the multi-racial event, which has become synonymous with Penang. – Aug 31, 2024
Main photo credit: FMT
