SANDAKAN: A historic Chinese New Year convoy of lion, dragon and unicorn dances rolled through Sandakan, drawing crowds in a first for the east coast town.
The celebration featured 15 lorries carrying 38 troupes, parading through the town centre and Bandar Kim Fung before culminating in an open street performance at Bandar Indah.
Sandakan, Sabah’s second-largest city, has rarely seen large-scale cultural performances held on its main roads.
Sandakan Municipal Council president Walter Kenson said the convoy aimed to bring the festive spirit directly to the people while strengthening multiracial unity.
“We wanted to create a lively Chinese New Year atmosphere and share the celebration with all communities in Sandakan, because Chinese New Year is a festival for everyone.”
Kenson described the open street performance, witnessed by more than 5,000 people, as a milestone for the town.
The temporary closure of a two-lane main road allowed the cultural showcase to take place in the heart of town, drawing spectators from across Sandakan.
Kenson said the strong turnout reflected growing appreciation for cultural events that unite residents while stimulating the local economy.
Among those present was Mandy Chiang, a mother of two, who brought her sons to witness the celebration.
“It was truly amazing. My boys had so much fun, and it opened their eyes to our culture in an exciting way. Sandakan hasn’t been this lively in a long time, and I’m impressed with how well everything was organised.”
The programme organisers are considering making this an annual event.
Having the time of their lives: Performers thrilling the huge crowd of spectators as the historic festive convoy rolls through Bandar Indah, Sandakan.
A “Big Head Buddha” performer interacts with the crowd during the historic Chinese New Year convoy in Sandakan.
Colourful cultural performers entertain thousands gathered for the historic convoy.
Young performers display choreographed movements accompanied by traditional drums during the celebration.
