THE vibrant red and blue “lions” dancing house-to-house across Johor have been turning heads this Chinese New Year, captivating onlookers and adding extra sparkle to the festivities.
The costumes, part of a state government initiative, were distributed to lion dance troupes in time for the festivities.
Xuan Long Shi Pontian troupe team leader Ho Chee Shyan said the timing was perfect.
“We received the ‘Maju Johor’ lion costumes just before the festival, so the lions were immediately put to work visiting homes and bringing festive cheer.
“The unique red and blue colours really stood out.
“Many people asked us about them and they definitely added extra excitement to the celebrations,” he told StarMetro.
With more than 20 years of lion dance experience, Ho said the state government’s allocation was meaningful recognition of the troupes’ dedication to preserving the traditional art form.
“It is an acknowledgement and support for our long-standing cultural heritage,” Ho said, adding that such backing could inspire more youths to take up the craft.
The Pontian-based association has about 50 active members, mostly students, reflecting a strong youth interest among the younger generation.
The new lions were showcased at the Chinese New Year open house of Pekan Nanas assemblyman Tan Eng Meng, who performed the traditional eye-dotting ceremony (dian jing) to symbolise the ritual awakening of the costumes.
Some 460 lion dance costume sets worth RM1.5mil were distributed to troupes statewide, the largest allocation of its kind in Johor.
Johor health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the allocation benefitted 230 troupes, with each receiving a pair of lions and a drum set.
“The new gear is part of the RM17mil allocation announced by Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi for the Chinese community.
“This is the first time in the state’s history that such a big number of lion dance costumes was given out,” he said, adding that the initiative reflected Johor’s unity and inclusivity.
In Yong Peng, the allocation also brought much-needed relief to local troupes.
Yong Peng Xin Sheng Lion Dance Association team leader Kwong Jing Fong said the contribution saved the troupe from having to seek sponsorships to replace worn-out costumes.
“A pair of lion dance costumes can cost up to RM5,000.
“Usually, we have to look for sponsorships ourselves to replace old sets,” said Kwong.
He expressed hope that the initiative would continue annually, adding that costumes were frequently used for performances and competitions.
“Each set typically lasts only one to two years because they are made from lightweight materials such as bamboo, papier-mache and thin fabric.
“Regular replacements are essential to maintain performance quality,” Kwong said.
