By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Feb 28: Ready your cameras (DSLRs or camera phones) as Kuching Hockien Association (KHA) is calling for entries for its second ‘Harmonious Sarawak’ photography competition, centered on capturing the activities of the deity Seng Ong Kong’s birthday celebration and grand procession held from March 27 to 31.
Alongside the photography contest, KHA is introducing a new addition: the ‘Harmonious Sarawak Short Video Creation Competition’. The public is invited to participate by filming videos that capture the essence of the events from March 27 to 31.
According to KHA president Dato Richard Wee, the grand procession for the deity Seng Ong Kong’s birthday will take place on March 31.
“The purpose of the celebration is the same as it is each year—to commemorate the deity Seng Ong Kong’s birthday. Every year, we have a magnificent procession. Additionally, since this year is the Year of the Dragon, more people are interested in joining the event.
“We will obtain the required approval from the authorities before publishing the routes in the papers. It will be the usual route we take, passing through Ban Hock Road, Padungan Road, and others,” Wee told reporters at a press conference today at the KHA building here.
Wee also noted that approximately 200 or more groups are anticipated to participate in the event this year, compared to around 170 groups that participated last year.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Photographic Society (SPS) president Chan Hua Chiang stated that the photography competition will have two categories: ‘Professional Camera’ category and ‘Mobile Phone’ category.
“So anyone can take photos and participate. And because we are promoting harmony, we encourage the native people to participate. Our judges are also of mixed race, so we try to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate. Last year, we did this and were very successful,” he said.
The registration fees for the photography competition are RM30 for the ‘Professional Camera’ category and RM20 for the ‘Mobile Phone’ category. Also, the registration fee for the short video competition is RM30.
Submissions for the photography competition are due on April 15, and for the short video competition, the deadline is May 31.
The winner of the ‘Professional Camera’ category will receive a cash prize of RM1,000, with RM800 for second place, RM500 for third place, and ten consolation prizes of RM100 each. The winner of the ‘Mobile Phone’ category will receive a cash prize of RM500, with RM300 for second place, RM200 for third place, and ten consolation prizes of RM50 each.
For the short video competition, the winner will be awarded RM1,500, followed by RM800 for second place, RM500 for third place, RM350 for fourth place, RM250 for the excellence award, and RM150 for the consolation award.
Those interested in participating or knowing more may scan the barcodes below to access the registration form, or visit KHA’s Facebook page. — DayakDaily
