KOTA KINABALU: The Wishing Tree at Tham Kung Temple in Sandakan has become a beloved attraction, especially during Chinese New Year, as locals and visitors uphold the tradition of making wishes.
Originally, wishes were made by tossing mandarin oranges tied with strings onto the tree’s branches. However, this practice was replaced with red wishing ribbons to prevent rotting fruit from accumulating. Visitors now write their hopes on ribbons before tying them to the branches.
According to Tham Kung Temple’s deputy chairman, Chang Boon Hang, the change has made the tradition more sustainable and accessible.
“We found that mandarin oranges would rot and fall, making it difficult to keep the area clean. The ribbons not only resolve this but also create a lasting and meaningful experience,” he said.
While visitors come year-round, the Wishing Tree sees the most activity during Chinese New Year when many Sandakan natives return home.
“Making a wish here has become part of the celebration. Some wish for prosperity, others for love, good health, or family happiness. It’s a wonderful way to start the new year with hope,” Chang added.
The red ribbons were chosen for their cultural significance and aesthetic appeal.
“Red symbolises luck and prosperity in Chinese culture. It also enhances the tree’s beauty and does not deteriorate over time,” he explained.
To participate, visitors enter the temple, make a donation, and receive a ribbon. They then tie it to a string and toss it onto the tree while making a wish. It is believed that a wish is more likely to come true if the ribbon lands on a branch on the first attempt. If not, it is customary to apologise to the deity before trying again.
The Wishing Tree, over a century old, is steeped in folklore. Legend has it that a deity guards the tree, granting wishes to those who pray at the nearby altar. This belief dates back to 1894 when the construction of the temple faced repeated obstacles. After consulting a monk, caretakers were advised to honour the deity, after which the temple was completed without further issues.
Today, visitors wish for love, prosperity, and health. Chong Sing Yun, a frequent visitor, shared how the tradition holds personal significance.
“I bring my children here to pray for their studies, hoping for a smooth academic journey,” she said.
The Tham Kung Temple, one of Sandakan’s oldest Chinese temples, was gazetted as an ancient monument in 1993. It underwent a major conservation project from 1994 to 1998, with the RM268,000 restoration funded by the federal government. It was re-gazetted in 1998 under Sabah’s Cultural Heritage (Conservation) Enactment, ensuring its protection.
Temple Chairwoman Chok Yen Li hopes the Wishing Tree continues to attract visitors.
“This temple is a significant part of Sandakan’s history. We are proud that the Wishing Tree has become a symbol of hope. We welcome visitors of all backgrounds to experience this tradition,” she said.
Despite its long history, Tham Kung Temple continues to evolve, blending tradition with modern needs. The Wishing Tree remains a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and culture, drawing those who believe their wishes, tied in red ribbons, may one day come true.
