KUCHING: A Sarawakian Muslim newlywed couple had an unexpected and unforgettable experience during their wedding photoshoot when they encountered a Lion Dance performance at Carpenter Street, one of the oldest streets in the city.
The couple, 25-year-old Dayangku Nur Zahiriah Awang Suhaili and Mohammad Shahfeezul Hussein, found themselves amidst two Chinese lions – one red and one yellow – along with the God of Wealth, creating a unique backdrop for their outdoor wedding photos.
Originally planning to have their photoshoot at the Old Court House, the couple had to change their plans due to unfavourable weather conditions.
However, this twist of fate led them to Carpenter Street, where they stumbled upon the unexpected lion dance performance.
Despite feeling initially disappointed, Dayangku expressed her belief that God had a better plan for them.
Sharing the experience with New Sarawak Tribune, Dayangku said that after their ‘akad nikah’ (solemnisation) ceremony yesterday (Feb 17), she and her husband decided to have their wedding photoshoot outdoors.
“We arrived at Carpenter Street and were met with a lion dance performance at one of the gold-selling shops.
“It was at that moment the ‘tauke’ (owner) of the shop who was so kind, had invited us to take photos with the lion dance troupe.
“We were shy but happy at the same time to be able to take photos with the lion dance,” she said.
Thanks to the couple’s photographer, she said the entire occasion was one of the most memorable experiences for her and her husband.
Their photographer, Syazani Abdul Rani, captured the spontaneous moment beautifully, with the lion dance troupe joining in the photoshoot as if it had been planned. He expressed his delight at being able to document such a unique and heartwarming moment for the couple.
“As we arrived at Carpenter Street at around 2pm, we saw the lion dance performance at the gold-selling shop, and I told the couple to wait for a while as there was the playing of firecrackers.
“While waiting, I just snapped natural moments and the shop owner then invited us for a photo opportunity with the lion dance.
“As I was photographing the couple, the lion dance troupe spontaneously joined in, posing with them as if it had been prearranged,” he said.
With the presence of the lion dance, he said it was really lucky for the couple as Chinese lions are believed to bring good luck.
“The entire experience was really touching as it really shows Sarawak’s unity and harmony regardless of race and religion.
“The unity is captured in photos as can be seen, and I hope such harmony will continue to be preserved,” Syazani said, who is also a Sarawakian.
