Noraini (in headscarf) and daughter in Jalan Wong Ah Fook as early as 5pm to get the best spot to watch the Chingay procession.
TOURISTS who joined in the fun at the Chingay Festival organised by Johor Ancient Temple, said they were impressed by the unique show of unity.
Singaporean Noraini Ismail, 48, was in Johor Baru for a three-day two-night holiday with her family when she noticed large crowds of people on Jalan Trus on Feb 29.
“After some locals explained that the procession would be held the next day, we decided to head to the main stage at Jalan Wong Ah Fook at around 5pm to get the best spot to view the event.
“Since we were staying at a hotel nearby, we managed to avoid traffic.
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“We also bought some snacks to last us throughout the evening.
“I was amazed at the scale of the Chingay celebration in Johor Baru.
“It was quite different from the Singapore version where we usually only watch it pass by from our flat,” said the childcare teacher.
American tourist Joseph Barrese said he would never get tired of seeing the passion and enthusiasm of those participating in Chingay.
Barrese says he never gets tired of seeing the participants’ passion and enthusiasm.
“This is my fifth year attending the event with my Malaysian friends and I usually plan my vacation in South-East Asia around it.
“A few years ago, the devotees even let me carry one of the palanquins where the deities were seated, which was an honour for me as I know that the deities are held in high regard.
“I also joined in when they shouted ‘Heng ah! Ong ah! Huat ah!,” said the New Yorker, adding that the sense of unity among devotees and spectators of various backgrounds was commendable.
The 73-year-old said he admired the people’s perseverance in keeping ancient traditions alive in the modern world.
A Taiwanese woman, who only wanted to be known as Huang, said it was her first time seeing how Chingay was celebrated in Johor.
“Although this was my second time in Malaysia, I just found out that Johor has such a unique Chinese New Year celebration.
“I was surprised at the scale of it as it is comparable to some of our religious celebrations in Taiwan.
“I took some photos and videos of the rituals to share with my friends back home,” said the 71-year-old who was part of a tour group from Taiwan.
She added that their tour guide also did a good job explaining the rituals observed throughout the festival. — By YEE XIANG YUN
