MIRI: Minister of Transport Sarawak yesterday, performed eye-dotting ceremony on six new lions for the upcoming Chinese New Year.
The ceremony was held at Miri Waterfront Tua Pek Kong with the presence of Miri Wai Sheng Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe Academy members.
According to the Chinese culture, the ritual is to empower the lion to fulfil its duty of bringing about protection, good luck, health and prosperity to those present.
“In Chinese culture, the eyes reflect the spirit and thus, the last step before the lion comes alive is for its eyes to be dotted,” Lee said.
Traditionally, lion dances were performed during New Year celebrations to scare off bad spirits with loud drums and cymbals paired with the face of a lion, which are auspicious animals in Chinese culture.
Prior to the eye-dotting, Lee who is also Senandin assemblyman and members of the Miri Wai Sheng Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe Academy offered incenses to pray for prosperity, good health and peace.
Lee when met later also called on Sarawakians to stay united and preserve the spirit of unity amongst one another.
“We in Sarawak are unique, because every time during festive seasons, we respect one another and celebrate the festival together,” he pointed out.
Citing on the lion dance, Lee said, it is now not a community sport exclusively to the Chinese anymore.
“In fact, it is a common sight here to see people of various races become professional lion dancers,” he said.
