Sunday, February 25, 2024

Thursday, 22nd Feb : A Glorious Celebration: Dragon Lunar New Year 2024


Easter Gifts
In the vibrant city of Melaka,today, amidst the bustling streets and the rich tapestry of cultures, there exists a special night that holds significance not just for the Chinese community but for all who call this city home. The Dragon Lunar New Year marked not only the beginning of a new lunar cycle but also a celebration of friendship and unity between China and Melaka that spanned five decades. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the streets came alive with the energy of anticipation and excitement.

Visitors eagerly flooded the Jonker Walk Main Stage grounds as early as 5pm, showcasing their excitement for the event which was officiated by the Governor of Melaka, Yang di Pertua Negeri, Tun Dr. Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam. The air was thick with anticipation, and as the first notes of music filled the air, the crowd erupted into cheers, their faces illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns and the promise of a night filled with magic.

Chief Minister YB Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture secretary-general Datin Radiahtun Malkam, and state leaders joined in the festivities, participating in the Yee Sang ceremony symbolising luxury, wealth, happiness, and prosperity for the community. It was a moment of unity, as leaders from different walks of life came together to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Melaka and its enduring ties with China.


The stage was set, quite literally, at the Jonker Walk Main Stage grounds, where visitors from near and far eagerly gathered, their faces beaming with excitement for the festivities that awaited them. It was a night unlike any other, a night where tradition met modernity, and where cultures intertwined in a harmonious celebration.

Among the highlights were the Traditional Chinese Orchestra by the Melaka Teo Chew Association, Peranakan sketches, the 24 Seasons Drums, and wushu performances. These performances added a touch of cultural richness and diversity to the evening, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of traditions that make up the fabric of Melaka.

The celebration, embracing a hawker-friendly concept with 323 vendors, was heightened by the state government’s provision of RM15 food vouchers to the first 10,000 patrons along Jonker Walk. This gesture not only added to the festive atmosphere but also ensured that everyone, regardless of background, could partake in the joyous occasion.



The guest list read like a who's who of Melaka's esteemed personalities, with Members of Parliament Kota Melaka, YB Datuk Khoo, Ayer Keroh MP, YB Kerk, YB Datuk Alex Seah, and YB Leng Chau Yen gracing the occasion with their presence. But it wasn't just politicians who added sparkle to the evening; esteemed artists Yuki Low and Vince Chong regaled the audience with their enchanting performances. Yuki Low's rendition of "Kenangan Terindah" tugged at heartstrings, while Vince Chong's spirited rendition of "Gong Xi Fatt Chai" had everyone tapping their feet in rhythm.

As the night unfolded, it became evident that this was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to the enduring friendship between China and Melaka. The 50-year milestone was commemorated with pride and joy, as the two cultures came together to revel in each other's company. The Yee Sang ceremony, symbolizing prosperity and abundance, was a poignant reminder of the shared values of hope and renewal that bind us all together.

But beyond the glitz and glamour, the Dragon Lunar New Year celebration was a time for reflection and gratitude. It was a time to honor the sacrifices of our forefathers and to celebrate the diversity that makes Melaka truly unique. It was a time to come together as a community, to laugh, to dance, and to create cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

As the night drew to a close and the last echoes of laughter faded into the night, one thing was clear: the Dragon Lunar New Year 2024 had been a resounding success. It had brought people together in a spirit of unity and camaraderie, reaffirming the bonds of friendship that have stood the test of time. And as we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, let us carry forward the spirit of this special night, remembering always the joy of celebration and the power of unity. Gong Xi Fa Cai!


Harmony's Embrace: A Dragon Lunar New Year Tale

 

In Melaka's heart, 'neath moon's gentle glow,

A joyous celebration, a radiant show.

Dragon Lunar New Year, bright and clear,

A fusion of cultures, harmony sincere.

 

Streets alive with laughter, with cheer abound,

Visitors flock, in joy they're found.

Jonker Walk, lanterns aglow above,

Symbolizing unity, peace, and love.

 

Governor and leaders, hand in hand,

With people united, a steadfast band.

Yee Sang shared, blessings cascade,

Luxury, wealth, in harmony laid.

 

Melodies echo in the crisp night air,

Dreams of a world so just and fair.

Teo Chew Orchestra, wushu's grace,

Each performance a cherished embrace.

 

Peranakan sketches, drums resound,

Tales spun with each beat's rebound.

Three hundred twenty-three vendors display,

With vouchers in hand, hearts light, joy's array.

 

Fifty years of friendship, Melaka, China stand,

Hand in hand, across the land.

As night's veil descends, memories weave,

Dragon Lunar New Year, pure, believe.

 

In time's tapestry, this night finds its place,

A beacon of hope, a vision to embrace.

Remembered in years yet to come,

Unity's spirit, forever won.



Gong Xi Fa Cai, let joy take flight,

In every heart, may hope ignite,

On this Dragon Lunar New Year night,

May blessings abound, shining ever bright.

 

Under lanterns' glow, 'neath moon's soft gaze,

Memories woven in Lunar New Year's haze.

As laughter fades, and melodies take flight,

Let's cherish unity, warmth, and light.

 

For in this celebration, cultures blend,

Essence of humanity, a message to send.

Friendship enduring, through trials grand,

Hand in hand, we'll always stand.

 

As Dragon bids farewell, new beginnings brew,

Gratitude guides, in all we pursue.

May this night's spirit, forever near,

Bring hope, joy, and blessings dear.

 

With voices raised, in joyful strain,

Memories cherished, friendships gained.

In time's embrace, let this night be,

A treasured chapter in history's sea.

 

Gong Xi Fa Cai, to one and all,

May blessings upon us endlessly fall.

In unity's embrace, may we stand tall,

Happy Dragon Lunar New Year, hear joy's call !