Musical fountain at temple in Negri Sembilan draws curious tourists

The temple has been decorated with special lights and props for this year’s Chinese New Year celebrations. — Photos: Bernama

The musical fountain performance at the Si Thian Kong Temple in Kuala Pilah, Negri Sembilan has become a popular attraction.

The show, lasting between 15 and 20 minutes, is enhanced by vibrant laser displays accompanied by harmonious music, captivating the attention of visitors who gather to watch the performance in the upper outdoor area of the temple.

According to the temple’s vice-chairman, Loh Kok Wah, the temple surrounded by nature was opened in 2015 and holds significant historical value. Its beauty is particularly striking at night when the building is illuminated by an array of colourful lights.

“The temple attracts tourists from Singapore, China, Taiwan, Britain, the United States, Japan, Korea, and Indonesia, in addition to local visitors. It once recorded over 10,000 visitors in a single night. The musical performance is held every Saturday and Sunday,” he said recently.

Loh, 60, said the number of visitors is expected to increase, particularly those from outside the area, during the holidays as various activities will be organised.

He said that in conjunction with this year’s Chinese New Year celebrations, the temple management has specially ordered a range of decorative lights, primarily LED displays from China, at a cost of nearly RM400,000, to brighten up the temple.

“The temple grounds are adorned with LED light decorations and more than 100 lanterns, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere,” he added.

Loh, a native of Kuala Pilah, also noted the diversity of visitors.

“We welcome people from all backgrounds – Chinese, Malay, Indian and others – who come to witness the joy of the Chinese New Year celebration. There are even Malay wedding couples who choose this temple as a backdrop for their photos, creating beautiful memories,” he said.

Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome at the temple.

Meanwhile, visitor Yong Ker Sin, 39, from Perak, said she and her family are planning to stay in Kuala Pilah until the Chinese New Year celebrations conclude.

She said her family was captivated by the temple’s musical fountain performance, which can be enjoyed free of charge.

“We chose to spend our holiday here to see the musical water show at the temple. It’s incredibly fascinating ... The decorative lights are also stunning, making us feel like we’re abroad,” said Yong.

For Tay Chan Yew, 37, from Johor, this was her first visit to Kuala Pilah to experience the beauty and unique architecture of the temple firsthand.

The mother of two shared that, in addition to worshipping, her family was thrilled to explore the decorations at the temple which include beautiful designs of cherry blossoms, dragon motifs, and fountains.

New in Kelantan

Meanwhile, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac) has channelled RM250,000 to the Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Kelantan branch to develop “Kem Wawasan” at its Machang campus as a tourist attraction.

Motac deputy secretary-general (management) Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot said the university was selected due to its tourism potential, supported by a geographical setting suitable for recreation, leisure and camping activities, which could boost the local economy.

“This camp is not only intended for students but also for local communities and tourists, both domestic and international.

“We welcome any input from student leaders in driving a competitive and sustainable tourism sector that contributes to the country’s socio-economic development,” he said after officiating the UiTM Kelantan Outstanding Student Awards ceremony in Machang recently.

Shaharuddin added that Motac would continue collaborating with public universities to promote tourism, culture and arts-related activities.

“In the past, we worked with several universities such as Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Universiti Putra Malaysia and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak.

“This year, we plan to engage other universities to enhance tourism facilities in their respective areas,” he said.

Over in China

In China, the picturesque landscape, pleasant climate, and abundant activities in Sanya’s have contributed to its popularity among holidaymakers as the city ushers in its peak tourism season.

The Publicity Department of Sanya Municipal Party Committee in a statement stated that Sanya’s one-of-a-kind charm and hospitality have made it a preferred destination for many travellers from various countries.

Sanya is working to diversify its tourism products, foster a tourist-friendly atmosphere, and establish itself as a key function and leading area of Hainan Free Trade Port’s international consumption centre.

To celebrate the Year of the Snake, Sanya is hosting the first World Intangible Heritage Spring Festival, featuring a wealth of events under the theme Heartwarming Year of the Snake. Citizens of 59 countries are able to visit the city without a visa, while many can enjoy a visa-free transit of 240 hours.

Visitors can enjoy activities like beach strolls, countryside relaxation, water sports, and low-altitude sightseeing. The city’s Yazhou Ancient City, with its fire pot show, dragon dance, and fish lantern parade, remains a major attraction.

Local folk customs and traditions continue to draw attention, while Dadonghai Beach, a thriving international resort, is a hotspot for tourists.

As the tourism sector is booming, Sanya is continuously improving its services with multilingual signs and friendly staff at the airport, train stations, and scenic spots to help international visitors navigate the city with ease. – Bernama