Tag: chinese

Chinese New Year in Penang: Traditional Acrobatic Lion Dance

The acrobatic Lion Dance on poles, while rooted in Chinese tradition, was significantly developed and popularized in Malaysia, where the local Chinese community transformed it into a globally recognized art form. Malaysian performers introduced innovative techniques, such as high-pole acrobatics, combining traditional Lion Dance movements with martial arts, gymnastics, and modern choreography.

Through competitions and cultural festivals, Malaysia elevated the dance into a thrilling spectacle, with teams like Kun Seng Keng gaining international acclaim. Malaysia’s creativity, technical advancements, and dedication to preserving and innovating the Lion Dance have made it a global leader in this art form, earning it credit for shaping the high-pole Lion Dance as it is known today.

The Chinese Lion Dance is a vibrant and traditional performance often seen during festivals and celebrations, especially Chinese New Year. It involves two performers in a colorful lion costume mimicking the animal’s movements to the beat of drums, cymbals, and gongs. The dance symbolizes good luck, prosperity, and the warding off of evil spirits, with the lion often “eating” lettuce (symbolizing wealth) and displaying playful, acrobatic moves. It is a cherished cultural art form rooted in Chinese history and folklore.

Bukit Mertajam: Hung Kung Kong Hoay

Nestled in the heart of Bukit Mertajam’s old town heritage street, Hung Kung Kong Hoay stands as a significant Chinese clan association with deep cultural roots. This historic landmark reflects the rich heritage and traditions of the local Chinese community, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring Bukit Mertajam’s vibrant heritage area.

Bukit Mertajam: Tua Pek Kong Cheng Temple

The Tua Pek Kong Cheng Temple in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, is a significant Taoist temple dedicated to Tua Pek Kong, a deity worshipped for protection, health, and prosperity. The temple is known for its rich history, dating back over a century, and its vibrant cultural practices, particularly during the Hungry Ghost Festival.

The temple’s architecture reflects traditional Chinese design, with intricate carvings and decorations. It serves as a focal point for community gatherings and religious ceremonies, attracting both devotees and tourists interested in Penang’s cultural heritage.

2024 Thnee Kong Seh (Jade Emperor’s Birthday Festival)

The various scenes from Penang’s historic Weld Quay featuring the annual celebration honoring the revered Jade Emperor. As devotees and onlookers gathered, the air was filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of fireworks, creating an atmosphere steeped in cultural richness alongside traditional performances at the main stage.

The Jade Emperor’s Birthday Festival, also known as the Heavenly Emperor’s Birthday or Thnee Kong Seh in Hokkien, holds deep cultural and religious significance in Chinese tradition. Originating from Taoist beliefs, the festival celebrates the birthday of the Jade Emperor, one of the most revered figures in Chinese mythology, believed to be the ruler of heaven and earth. The festival’s history traces back centuries to ancient China, where communities would gather to pay homage to the Jade Emperor with elaborate ceremonies, offerings, and prayers for blessings and prosperity. Thnee Kong Seh, is celebrated by the Hokkiens on the ninth day of the Lunar New Year.

Penang Chinese New Year Festival: The Blue Lion

Lion dance performance during the Chinese New Year celebration at George Town. Lion dance in Penang was found to have started during the 1930s, whereby it was a tradition brought over by immigrants from southern China back then. Hence, the common lion dance here is the southern lion dance style. Usually performed during Chinese New Year or any major Chinese event, the lion dance is believed to bring luck and fortune.

Chulia Street: Han Jiang Ancestral Temple



The Han Jiang Teochew Temple (or Hanjiang Ancestral Temple) is a Chinese temple located along Chulia Street (Lebuh Chulia) in George Town and right at the cross junction of Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling. It is the community temple of the Penang Teochew Association. Completed in 1870, it serves as the community temple of the Penang Teochew Association which was formed in 1855 by six Teochew migrants.