GEORGE TOWN: The more-than-a-century-old Hock Hin Keong (Ban Ka Lan Snake Temple) in Bayan Lepas is once again abuzz with activity as thousands gathered for its annual temple celebration and flame-watching ceremony on Sunday (Feb 2)
This year's event holds greater significance as it coincides with the Year of the Snake, which occurs every twelve years in the Chinese zodiac calendar.
With celebrations in full force, the temple grounds transformed into a vibrant hub with over 40 stalls and a lively lineup of musical performances, including drumming displays, games, and traditional dances.
This includes a traditional puppet dance performance by Kim Giak Low Choon Puppet Show at a separate stage in front of the temple.
A highlight of the evening’s entertainment was the snake dance by Xuan Kang Sports Cultural Centre, a unique variation of the famous Chinese dragon dance, where a snake puppet gracefully weaved through the crowd, captivating onlookers.
More performances entertained the crowd at the main stage, which also saw the event's opening by Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai and Hokkien Kongsi chairman Datuk Lim Ghim Hin.
Throughout the night, devotees made their way into the temple to offer prayers and check out the Wagler Pit Viper snakes on display throughout the temple.
However, the most anticipated moment of the night would be the revered "Chneah Hoay", or flame-watching ceremony as devotees and spectators await the deity’s divination.
This would take place at about 11.30pm.
The ritual, which observes the brightness, stability, and intensity of three bursts of flames in the temple’s incense urn, is believed to forecast Penang’s economic outlook for the year ahead.
Built in 1850, the temple honours Master Choo Sor Kong, a Chinese Buddhist monk who lived during the Song Dynasty (960-1279).
He was worshipped after dying due to his lifetime of good deeds and was given the title “Chor Soo”, meaning eminent historic figure.
According to a legend, the deity gave shelter to snakes from a nearby jungle and when the temple was completed, the snakes moved in and were regarded as protectors.
