By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 13: The age-old tradition of tossing oranges into the river during Chap Goh Meh—also known as the Lantern Festival or Chinese Valentine’s Day—once again brought a lively and romantic atmosphere to China-Malaysia Friendship Park, uniting the community in celebration.
A large crowd gathered at Friendship Park in Jalan Song to witness the spectacle, which was jointly organised by Kuching South City Council (MBKS), Midin Media, Chagee, and the Kuching Foochow Association. The event transformed this cherished cultural practice into a vibrant social gathering, blending heritage with modern romance.
As part of the tradition, hopeful singles—especially young women—inscribed their names or contact details on mandarin oranges before tossing them into the netted area in the lake.
According to belief, if a man retrieves an orange, fate may guide them toward love and marriage.
While many today view the custom as a lighthearted cultural activity rather than a serious matchmaking ritual, it remains a beloved symbol of hope, love, and new beginnings.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng highlighted the significance of community-driven events in strengthening social bonds.
He noted that the Chap Goh Meh celebration was not just about preserving tradition but also about fostering unity and deeper mutual understanding.
“Seeing families, friends, and neighbours come together, share joy, and create cherished memories embodies the strong social fabric we strive to build. A united community leads to a stronger city, and that remains MBKS’s core mission,” he said when addressing the Love Blossoms event last night (Feb 12).
The event, graced by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, also featured cultural activities like dragon dance and a bazaar offering various food and beverages as well as gifts for Valentine’s Day celebration.
Wee encouraged citizens to work together in shaping Kuching into a harmonious and livable city.
He also praised the event as a model of corporate social responsibility (CSR), with MBKS partnering with strategic collaborators to bring the celebration to life.
He commended the co-organisers for their dedication to strengthening community ties through cultural events and festivities. — DayakDaily
