By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 28: More than 200 giant dragon incense sticks, a sea of joss papers, effigies and offerings set the night ablaze as the Kuching Chinese Cultural Development Association held its annual Hungry Ghost Festival (Zhongyuan Festival) worship ceremony in front of Fook Zai Food Court in Jalan Sekama last night (Aug 27).
According to TVS Rebao, the spectacular ceremony, held for the fifth consecutive year in conjunction with the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, saw participants ceremonially burning joss papers and offerings as a gesture of respect and remembrance for the “good brothers” or wandering spirits believed to roam the human world during the month.
The flames from the furnace illuminated the night sky, while the giant dragon incense sticks sent fragrant smoke into the air, creating a solemn yet striking atmosphere steeped in traditional festive customs.
The rituals also carried prayers for peace, prosperity, favourable weather and harmony, reflecting the community’s hopes for blessings and well-being.
Adding to the spectacle was a dazzling fireworks display, with bursts of colourful light lighting up the sky and complementing the glowing furnace flames.
Among those attending were Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, political secretary to Premier of Sarawak Susan Clement; Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How and Kuching Chinese Cultural Development Association chairman Ling Hong Yew, among others.
Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) personnel were also deployed throughout the ceremony to ensure it proceeded safely and smoothly.
They closely monitored fire safety during the burning of joss papers and the lighting of the giant incense sticks, while taking precautionary measures whenever necessary to safeguard participants and those attending the event.
The Hungry Ghost Festival is more than a traditional folk observance, carrying deep cultural significance through rituals that honour ancestors, express gratitude to those who came before, seek blessings and extend compassion to wandering spirits.
Over the centuries, the festival has evolved through the blending of Taoist, Buddhist and local folk traditions, becoming an enduring expression of Chinese cultural heritage.
Observed annually on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, the festival is traditionally associated with the belief that the gates of the underworld are opened, allowing spirits to enter the human world and roam freely before the gates are eventually closed.
Throughout the seventh lunar month, families traditionally make offerings to ancestors and wandering spirits, with food, joss papers and other offerings forming an important part of the observances.
For many devotees, these practices also serve as an expression of filial piety, with families worshipping their ancestors and seeking their blessings and protection. — DayakDaily
