Streets washed with blessings: Chap Goh Mei temple processions in 3rd Mile Bazaar, Siniawan, Bau

The big headed Buddha who teases the lions in a photo at Siniawan Chap Goh Meh temple parade on Feb 24, 2024. Photo credit: Sc Chong
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By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Feb 24: As the Lunar New Year festivities reached their crescendo, Chap Goh Mei, the 15th and final day of celebration, brought forth a breathtaking display of tradition and devotion.

At three significant locations—the 3rd Mile Bazaar, Siniawan heritage town, and Bau town—hundreds and thousands gathered to witness the temple processions that washed the streets with blessings, marking the culmination of the festive season.

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The devotees carrying the chariots bearing effigies of deities at the 3rd Mile Bazaar Wu Fang Datuk Kong temple parade on Feb 24, 2024.
The lion dance troupe seeking blessings from the deities before embarking on the parade at 3rd Mile Bazaar on Feb 24, 2024.

At the Wu Fang Datuk Kong Temple in 3rd Mile Bazaar, an impressive 135 troupes converged to participate in this sacred event. The roads, usually bustling with traffic, were adorned with the colours of tradition and the scent of incense as decorated vehicles paraded through.

Among those present were Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai, and special assistant to Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Michael Kong.

Lo (fourth right) and other guests and sponsors for the 3rd Mile Bazaar temple parade in a photo on Feb 24, 2024.

Leading the spectacle were majestic chariots bearing effigies of deities adorned with intricate embellishments. These divine figures, symbols of prosperity and protection, were carried with the utmost reverence by devoted worshippers whose presence infused the atmosphere with an aura of sacredness and devotion.

As these divine figures glided through the streets, worshippers trailed behind, their prayers mingling with the rhythmic beats of drums and cymbals.

Decorated vehicles parade through the streets around the 3rd Mile Bazaar during the Chap Goh Meh temple parade on Feb 24, 2024.
Devotees dressed as deities and other characters, including dragon and frog mascots, add excitement to the 3rd Mile Bazaar temple parade on Feb 24, 2024.

The procession was not merely a visual feast but a symphony of cultural heritage and spiritual significance. Lion and dragon dances synchronised with the rhythm, and resounding drumbeats captivated the crowds. The performers breathed life into these mythical creatures, weaving intricate patterns and embodying the spirit of strength, vitality, and good fortune.

Alongside, devotees dressed as deities and other characters, including dragon and frog mascots, added to the vibrancy and excitement.

Yet, amidst the splendour and spectacle, the true essence of Chap Goh Mei shone through in the earnest prayers and hopes of worshippers seeking blessings and prosperity for the Year of the Dragon.

Families, young and old, from various backgrounds, gathered along the streets to offer prayers and partake in the age-old traditions of Chap Goh Mei.

Crowds at the 3rd Mile Bazaar temple parade on Feb 24, 2024.

Earlier today, similar scenes unfolded in Siniawan heritage town and Bau Town as communities united in the spirit of celebration and devotion.

In Bau, the procession was graced by hundreds of attendees, among them Deputy Minister of Transport Dato Henry Harry Jinep, bedecked in the iconic ‘Dongbei da hua’ attire, a resplendent flaming red Northeast China flower pattern that has captivated audiences worldwide, infusing the procession with the vibrant hues of the Spring festival.

Henry in iconic Dongbei da hua jacket as he join the temple parade in Bau on Feb 24, 2024.
Devoted worshippers carry the chariots bearing effigies of deities parade through the streets of Bau during the Chap Goh Meh temple parade on Feb 24, 2024.

Meanwhile, in Siniawan, a bountiful mountain of offerings ascended towards the deities while the air crackled with the ignition of firecrackers that lined the thoroughfare, illuminating the path with their radiant glow.

Amidst the lively spectacle, several majestic dragons, resplendent in hues of pink and green, gracefully weaved through the streets, symbolising strength and prosperity, while the gentle sprinkle of blessed water bestowed divine blessings upon all who traversed the sacred route. Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh was present.

Devotees and visitors flockedto  Siniawan old town during its Chap Goh Meh temple parade on Feb 24, 2024. Photo credit: Sc Chong
The atmosphere at Siniawan’s Chap Goh Meh temple parade on Feb 24, 2024. Photo credit: Sc Chong

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue upon the streets, these moments of collective celebration and reflection are a testament to the enduring faith, tradition, community, and unity in Sarawak society. — DayakDaily

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