KUCHING: A 90m long fire dragon costume, reputed to be the longest in Malaysia, will be the highlight of the Seng Ong deity's birthday procession here on Thursday (April 9).
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said the locally crafted costume was known as a fire dragon because it was built to carry joss sticks.
He said the costume's design also included hornbill elements, reflecting Sarawak's identity.
"A lot of effort has been put in by individual troupes for this year's procession. Not only is the dragon costume getting longer, it is also locally made because we now have the talent to make it.
"A fire dragon with hornbill features is uniquely Sarawakian," he told reporters after performing the dragon costume's eye-dotting ceremony at Hong San Si temple here on Monday (April 6) night.
Dr Sim also said the procession, which dates back 100 years, had grown from a Taoist tradition to an occasion bringing together Sarawak's multicultural society in mutual respect and celebration.
"This is not just a temple procession but an event to bless Sarawak. That's why we see participation from other communities and this is the best of Sarawak.
"With so many conflicts happening in the world, we need peace, harmony and respect more than ever," he added.
Organised by the Kuching Hokkien Association, the procession will feature 222 troupes, including dragon and lion dance performers.
They will be joined by cultural performances from the Guan Jiang Shou troupe from Miri, Malay drum group Kumpulan Hadrah Sri Melati and Sarawak indigenous groups.
The procession will start at the Hong San Si temple at Wayang Street, going along Jalan Tabuan, Jalan Ban Hock, Jalan Padungan, Jalan Bukit Mata, Main Bazaar, Gambier Street, Market Street, Khoo Hun Yeang Street, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Carpenter Street and Ewe Hai Street before returning to the temple.
