ALOR GAJAH: The border town of Pulau Sebang turned lively recently with the inaugural traditional lion dance tournament hosted by Tampin's Cheng Leong Keng Temple.
Located right on the state boundary of Negri Sembilan and Melaka, the temple became a hub of celebration as 12 lion dance troupes with 150 performers gathered to mark the occasion.
Temple's chairman Tan Chong Hai said the tournament was jointly organised by the Kun Seng Keng Lion and Dragon Dance Association and the Wen Wei Lion Dance Association, held in conjunction with the birthday of Lord Fah Zu Gong.
“The event also saw participation from people of various races from both Negri Sembilan and Melaka,” he said in an interview on Thursday (September 18).
The opening ceremony was attended by Melaka MCA Chairman Datuk Lim Ban Hong, Melaka's youth, sports, and non-governmental organisations committee chairman Datuk VP Shanmugam, and representatives of Repah assemblyman Lai Choi Sing, who is also the village headman of Tampin New Village.
“I am glad to see the event showcased multiculturalism and attracted more than 600 people,” he said.
Tan said that his temple committee worked in the spirit of gotong-royong to make the event a success, contributing as judges, setting up tents and seating, inviting VIPs, liaising with authorities for permits and sourcing funding and prize sponsorships.
Meanwhile, Wen Wei Lion Dance Association’s general affairs officer and Tampin branch caretaker Tee Jun Leong praised the determination of the temple to host the tournament.
“It’s really heartening to see the crowd and the enthusiasm shown by the temple committee,” he said.
Tee added that the tournament not only highlighted the artistry of lion dance but also strengthened bonds within the community across both states.
