KUCHING: Colourful and various types of lanterns illuminated the Malaysia-China Friendship Park in conjunction with the Mid-Autumn Festival here yesterday evening.
About 600 lanterns and mooncakes were distributed for free to the public at the Malaysia-China Friendship Park around 6.30 pm.
A lion dance performance took place, and there was a parade with participants carrying their lanterns around the park.
The event was organised by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), Persatuan Persahabatan Zong Ho Kuching, and the Chinese Martial Art Association.
According to MBKS mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Mooncake Festival or the Lantern Festival, is the second most important festive season for the Chinese, following the Chinese New Year.
“We chose to distribute free lanterns and mooncakes to convey the true essence of the Moon Cake holiday. In addition to mooncakes, I believe this holiday signifies a family reunion when people come together,” Wee told reporters during the event.
He also said that MBKS had planned several events with the less fortunate, including celebrations at the Sarawak Hun Nam Siang Tng (elderly’s home) on Friday morning, and The Salvation Army Children’s Home in Kota Samarahan on Thursday night.
Also present were the Consulate-General of The People’s Republic of China, Xing Weiping, and Chinese Martial Art Association patron, Kapitan Tan Kun Gee.
