Jonker Walk to stream virtual dragon, lion dances to comply with CNY SOPs

MELAKA: The management of Jonker Walk plans to stream a splendid dragon and lion dance performance via a virtual event to enliven the Lunar New Year festivities.

Jonker Walk management committee deputy chairman Datuk Wira Gan Tian Loo said the decision was reached following the standard operating procedures (SOPs) set for Chinese New Year where public performances are not allowed.

"We had earlier planned to organise stage performances to usher in the Year of the Tiger but we had to put that on hold after the SOP was unveiled.

"Hence, we decided to use digital platforms to telecast the performance of lion dance troupes," he said in an interview here Sunday (Jan 30).

Gan said the performance would be organised as a close door event at a hall before or on Chap Goh Meh (Yuan Xiao).

"It has been a state tradition for the past two decades to feature grand dragon and lion dance performance at Jonker Walk.

"We decided to keep the tradition going this year," he said.

Gan said hundreds of decorations had also been put up along the streets within Jonker Walk to liven up the atmosphere.

"Jonker Walk has been a focal point for revellers to congregate and I was told that there were a lot of people here on Sunday morning, despite the low-key celebration," he said.

He said temples in Jonker Walk will also preserve the tradition by observing the SOPs.

Gan said the iconic night market will continue as normal during the festive season.

"We have placed a strict SOP and physical distancing will be observed at all times," he added.