Johor Ruler launches world's longest dragon tunnel in Yong Peng

YONG PENG: Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar has launched the biggest and longest dragon tunnel in the world here that is set to be an iconic tourist attraction.

Dubbed the Prosperity Dragon, the 351ft structure is adorned with Chinese cultural paintings inside and sits on a garden within the Che Ann Khor Yong Peng Association building grounds at Taman Kota Impian here.

Some 5,000 visitors, both local and foreigners alike, gathered to celebrate the launch of the massive dragon, which cost some RM8mil and took over a year and a half to build.

The atmosphere was festive as visitors cheered aloud upon the arrival of Sultan Ibrahim, who was accompanied by his son Tunku Temenggong Tunku Idris Iskandar.

After visiting the tunnel, Sultan Ibrahim planted a tree from the podocarpus macrophyllus species before he was entertained by a lion and dragon dance performance involving 99 lions, symbolising longevity.

State Tourism Committee chairman Datuk Tee Siew Kiong said that the dragon tunnel would draw more tourists into the district and in turn boost the local business and state economy.

"This dragon would be a symbol for prosperity for Johor and I hope that this Green Garden will become a iconic feature for Yong Peng," he said in his speech here on Saturday.