Only a handful of people at temple to mark Jade Emperor’s birthday

Sticking to tradition: Yew Ju Chon, 70, burning paper offerings during the Hokkien CNY celebration at his house in Taman Chi Liung, Klang. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star

GEORGE TOWN: For the first time in over a century, locations that traditionally host the elaborate Jade Emperor’s birthday (Thnee Kong Seh) celebrations are quiet this year.

At Thnee Kong Tnuah (Jade Emperor Pavilion) here in Ayer Itam, halls within the temple were only filled with a handful of devotees in each hall at any one time, praying with joss sticks and candles.