KUCHING: Nine new southern lions of the Chinese Martial Art Association (CMAA) have been ‘brought to life’ through the traditional eye-dotting ceremony.
This also marks preparation for the upcoming Chinese New Year, which will usher in the Year of the Snake.
Accompanied by rhythmic beats of drums, cymbals, and gongs, the eye-dotting ritual was performed by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Hui Hian, CMAA president Chester Lim, and its advisors Kapitan Tan Kun Gee and Frank Kong at the Tua Pek Kong Temple here today (Jan 5).
Red inks, and calligraphy brushes were used to dot different parts of its body including the lion’s eyes, nose, ears, and mouth.
During unveiling of the new lions, prayers were also offered at the temple for the wellbeing and success of all for the year ahead.
Later speaking to reporters, Dr Sim said the eye-dotting on the lions is a tradition that symbolises Chinese New Year is around.
“In Sarawak, it’s a very important time for all the lions dance, because during Chinese New Year, they go around and wish everyone prosperity,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lim said this year’s eye-dotting ceremony is held at the temple to commemorate CMAA’s 51st anniversary.
On the lion dance, he described it to be more than just a festive performance but holds cultural and historical significance.
He said the lions used during lion dance represent the legendary characters of the Three Kingdoms era in China, each lion embodying the virtues and traits of these historical figures.
“The different colours of the lions represent characters from the Three Kingdoms period, a time that emphasised ethics, loyalty, bravery, and values like defending the nation.
“For example, the yellow lion symbolises Liu Bei, the emperor known for his kindness and soft heart; the black lion represents Zhang Fei, a brave yet impatient warrior; and the red lion portrays Guan Yu, revered for his unwavering loyalty,” he said.
He added green and white lions represent other Chinese generals, while the white lion, symbolising Ma Chao, reflects mourning and resilience as he constantly remembers his slain family.
Lim further said beyond its historical symbolism, lion dance instils essential life skills and values in its practitioners.
“It’s not just about playing the lion dance. It’s about training hard, being patient, and fostering unity to build a successful team and with the positive and noble values, being instilled. This is the colourful part of lion dance,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude for the state government’s support in preserving and promoting lion dance as a cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, the first day of Chinese New Year falls on Jan 29 this year, marking the beginning of the Year of the Wood Snake.
