Prancing into new year with panache

Han Shou Tang Dragon and Lion Dance Cultural Club Kuala Lumpur banging the war drums at the extravaganza.

The Chinese World Dragon and Lion Dance Extravaganza Malaysia took centre stage at LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre, attracting mall visitors and pedestrians along Kuala Lumpur’s walkway.

World Dragon Lion Dance Extravaganza Sdn Bhd organising committee member Raymond Khue said the event served as an excellent platform for preserving the rich cultural tradition of Chinese lion and dragon dances, providing the audience with narratives that conveyed moral values.

The event to mark the first day of 2024 featured 18 teams from across the nation.

“Among the performers are winners from their respective local championships.

“The participating teams comprise not only primary school pupils but also youths from diverse multiracial backgrounds,” he said.

Khue said the extravaganza originated from Hong Kong and the aim was to broaden the celebration on a global scale.

Long Yi N9 Art Association’s mascot waving to the crowd.

“For the culture to endure, it is essential to establish a commercialised ecosystem that enables lion dance practitioners to sustain a livelihood.

“When we first started in 2017, the mall we performed in attracted a large crowd, so we had positive reviews.”

“Over the past year, LaLaport has been a crucial supporter of our event, which now features performers from across the nation.

“This platform allows us to present high-quality lion dance performances with substantial content, providing the audience with valuable insights,” he said.

“For us, it serves as a means to preserve and pass on the tradition.

“Our mission is to celebrate, showcase, safeguard tradition while educating the public.”