Chinese people enjoying the lion dance troupe performance at the Teng Yun Chinese Temple in Bandar Seri Begawan. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): Roads in areas like Kampong Kiulap and Gadong experienced less traffic since Friday, with many shops closed for Chinese New Year celebrations.
Parking, typically scarce in commercial areas, are now more available.
Eateries and workshops in Gadong, Kampong Menglait and Batu Satu along Jalan Tutong were also closed, with some planning to reopen more than a week later.
A popular chicken rice restaurant in Batu Satu announced it will resume operations on February 19, according to a memo posted on its premises.
Regular commuter Muqri who works in Kiulap said it normally takes more than 45 minutes to get out of Kampong Kiulap area but last Friday, it was smooth sailing.
“Normally, I leave office after 7pm when the traffic subsides,” he said.
Tony who has been visiting his Chinese friends’ house since yesterday noticed fewer people visiting this year compared to previous years.
“I guess most people spent their holidays outside Brunei while thousands of Bruneians crossed the border to the neighbouring cities of Miri and Kota Kinabalu during the long weekend, which coincided with Israk Mikraj and the Chinese New Year celebration.”
Meanwhile, the Chinese community in the country celebrated the Lunar New Year with vibrant festivities at the Chinese Temple in the capital since Saturday.
Crowds gathered as early as 7am to usher in the Year of the Dragon and enjoy lion dance performances.
The annual celebration attracts hundreds of people, including photographers, tourists and prominent members of the Chinese community.
Participants honour their ancestors by burning joss paper and incense at the temple to pray for good health, prosperity and peace.
The Chinese believe that the lion dance brings prosperity and good fortune, with the lion symbolising power and wisdom.
The dance is accompanied by the rhythmic beating of drums. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
