KUCHING: The Kuching Teochew Association captivated audiences at the Year of the Dragon street parade with two intricately designed floats celebrating Chinese heritage and Sarawak’s vibrant multicultural spirit yesterday.
Held along Carpenter Street and its surrounding areas here, the association led the procession with the ‘Lantern Float’, a traditional red-headed boat adorned with 88 red lanterns, of which symbolised the deep and enduring traditions of Chinese culture.
Meanwhile, the ‘Community Float’ showcased traditional Teochew baskets, red-topped cakes, and tea sets, highlighting the community’s rich cultural heritage and paying tribute to their faiths and cultures.
The annual parade, organised by the more than 100-year-old Hiang Thian Siang Ti Temple under the Kuching Teochew Association, was also held in honour of Xuantian Shangdi, the Supreme Wealth Deity.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who was among those in attendance at the event, lauded the colourful and culturally rich celebration.
“There are more than 144 participating teams, featuring lion and dragon dances, traditional Chinese music, and decorated floats. Truly colourful,” he said in a Facebook post later.
He added the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) also joined with a float symbolising Sarawak’s harmonious multicultural society.
“These floats are a tribute to the best of Sarawak’s spirit,” he added.
Dr Sim then expressed hope for blessings upon the state and its people.
“May Xuantian Shangdi bless Sarawak and its people with prosperity, peace, success, happiness, and good health,” he said.
Among those present at the parade was MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng.
