Celebrating Unity and Tradition: The Duan Wu Festival and Bak Zhong Distribution Campaign 2024

On Sunday, June 2nd, 2024, the Taman Bukit Community Hall, Melaka, buzzed with activity and excitement as community members gathered for the annual Duan Wu Festival and Bak Chang Distribution Campaign, celebrating the Duan Wu Festival 2024. Organized by YB Kerk Ayer Keroh, this event exemplified the spirit of togetherness and cultural heritage.

A Morning of Joyful Collaboration

Starting as early as 7:30 am, the community came together to prepare 1,500 Bak Zhong (also known as Zongzi) for distribution. The scene was a heartwarming display of teamwork and dedication, with volunteers of all ages participating in the preparation process. By 11:00 am, all the Bak Zhong were cooked and ready to be served to the community.

The event not only provided delicious food but also fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose. It was a joyous occasion that highlighted the importance of working together in peace and harmony.

A Glimpse into the History of Duan Wu Festival

The Duan Wu Festival, also known as the Dragon Boat Festival, has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. It commemorates the life and death of the famous Chinese scholar Qu Yuan, who lived during the Warring States period. Qu Yuan was a loyal minister who, in despair over the corruption of his government, drowned himself in the Miluo River. The local people, in an attempt to save him or at least recover his body, raced out in their boats and threw rice dumplings into the river to prevent fish from eating his body. This act of remembrance evolved into the Dragon Boat Festival and the tradition of making and eating Bak Zhong.

The Significance of the Duan Wu Festival

The Duan Wu Festival, celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar, is a time to honor Qu Yuan's spirit and celebrate Chinese cultural heritage. The festival is marked by dragon boat races, the eating of Bak Zhong, and various other festivities. It serves as a reminder of loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the community.

Tips for Making Perfect Bak Zhong

Making Bak Zhong is an art that requires patience and skill. Here are a few tips for those who wish to try their hand at this traditional delicacy:

1. Choose the Right Ingredients: Use glutinous rice, fresh bamboo leaves, and high-quality fillings such as pork, mushrooms, chestnuts, and salted egg yolks.
2. Preparation of Bamboo Leaves: Soak the bamboo leaves overnight to soften them, and then boil them for a few minutes to ensure they are pliable and clean.
3. Seasoning the Rice: Marinate the glutinous rice with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings for enhanced flavor.
4. Assembling the Bak Zhong: Carefully wrap the marinated rice and fillings in the bamboo leaves, ensuring they are tightly secured to prevent leakage during cooking.
5. Cooking: Boil the wrapped Bak Zhong for several hours until fully cooked. The time may vary depending on the size and filling.

A Day of Celebration and Gratitude

The Bak Zhong Distribution Campaign was more than just a culinary event; it was a celebration of community spirit and cultural pride. We were honored to have a photography session with YB Kerk Ayer Keroh, YB Khoo, and representatives from various associations and donors. Their presence and contributions were greatly appreciated, making the event a resounding success.

As we reflect on this wonderful day, we are reminded of the joy and fulfillment that comes from working together in peace and harmony. Let us continue to celebrate our traditions and strengthen our community bonds in the years to come.

Ode to the Dragon Boat Festival

In the heart of summer's bloom,

When rivers gleam under the moon,

We gather to remember and to honor,

The legacy of Qu Yuan, a scholar.

Bamboo leaves in gentle hands,

Glutinous rice from fertile lands,

Wrapped with care, a family’s treasure,

Each Bak Zhong a token of pleasure.

Drums echo on the water's breast,

As dragon boats race with zest,

Oars slicing through the morning mist,

In a rhythmic dance, a joyous twist.

Colors bright, and spirits high,

Kites soaring in the sky,

The scent of incense, the sound of cheer,

Tradition's whisper, loud and clear.

A tale of loyalty and sorrow told,

In legends ancient and bold,

Yet in the present, it lives anew,

In every heart that beats true.

Families gather, hand in hand,

Together they work, together they stand,

In peace and joy, they find their way,

Celebrating this sacred day.

To the Dragon Boat Festival, we raise a toast,

To the culture and history we love the most,

In each Bak Zhong, a story we hold,

Of timeless values, brave and bold.

May this festival bring us close,

In bonds of love, we cherish most,

Rich in culture, steeped in grace,

In every heart, may it find its place.