GEORGE TOWN: Early crowds are gathering at cemeteries and columbariums as Chinese families pay homage to their ancestors, marking the start of the Qing Ming Festival.
The school holidays allowed parents to also bring their children, turning ancestral rites into a lesson in culture and family values.
Taking advantage of the calmer setting, families performed ancestral rites at places such as Leng How Koe Columbarium and Funeral Parlour in Paya Terubong yesterday.
Among them were finance executive Helen Tan and her husband Jason Tian, both 41, along with their children.
The family from Johor was here to pay respects to Tan’s grandparents.
“When we saw the first day fell within the school holidays, we took leave to come together.
“It’s less crowded and our children can learn about Qing Ming without missing school,” said Tan, who is a third-generation Chinese Malaysian.
Tian said the timing gave their children a chance to learn about their culture and the importance of honouring elders.
Coffee shop operator Lim Poh Suan, 65, said the quieter setting allowed for a more focused and respectful observance.
“It’s more organised and less stressful. During peak days, parking and movement can be difficult,” she said.
United Hokkien Cemeteries president Datuk Cheah Cheng Ean said he expects a high turnout despite the ongoing hot weather.
“We expect more than 10,000 people to come during the festival period,” he said, advising visitors to plan ahead, stagger their visits and stay hydrated.
