Amirudin (second from left) greeting guests during the Selangor Chinese New Year open house at Dataran Kemerdekaan Shah Alam. — Photos: IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
OVER 10,000 people came out to enjoy the colourful performances, food and festive atmosphere at the Chinese New Year open house hosted by Selangor government.
The celebration attracted locals and tourists alike as they thronged Dataran Kemerdekaan Shah Alam where tents decorated with red lanterns had been set up.
One of the guests, Wily Lee, 37, said the Selangor government deserved praise for organising the event.
“I believe this must be one of the grandest celebrations,” he said.
Though happy with the strategic location, Lee said the event could have been better organised as there were long queues for food.
Children taking part in a Chinese calligraphy contest.
Guests were treated to a variety of entertainment, including a lion dance, 24-drum performance, traditional Chinese opera, wayang kulit and choir performances.
There were also dozens of booths where visitors could buy handicraft, accessories and confectionery.
Children had a chance to participate in a Chinese calligraphy and colouring contest.
Santhakumare Sakhadivan, 34, brought her two children, aged 10 and 12, who were dressed in a fusion of traditional Indian and Chinese outfits.
The 24-drum performance by Hin Hua High School, Klang and (below) a Chinese traditional dance by SJK(C) Taman Rashna, Klang, were among the performances that kept guests entertained at the open house.
She had hoped for a fashion show or talent competition for children to participate in.
“I want them to take part in such competitions so that they can gain confidence while learning more about the various cultural traditions in Malaysia.
“It is not about winning. I hope the Selangor government will conduct such events for Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Deepavali too.”
French national Nathan Sperber, who has lived in Shanghai, China, for more than 10 years, said he attended to to learn more about cultural festivities in Malaysia.
The 35-year-old, who currently lives in Subang Jaya, said he was amazed by the diversity showcased in the performances.
He said while Chinese New Year was usually celebrated in Paris, it would not be on such a grand scale.
Among those present at the open house were Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and state industry and trade committee chairman Datuk Teng Chang Khim.
Another state-level Chinese New Year event was held at the Shah Alam City Council auditorium and banquet hall.
