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!
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 !
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