KUCHING: Chinese culture took centre stage at a bamboo forest here Sunday ahead of the Mid-Autumn festival which falls on Sept 29.
It was a stunning display, complete with people dressed to the nines in vibrant traditional Chinese attire, making it a picture-perfect photo opportunity.
Organised by the Kuching Elite Toastmaster Club, the programme was held at the bamboo forest near Jalan Landeh in conjunction with the upcoming festival.
It featured various activities such as a live demonstration of calligraphy, tea ceremony and Chinese chess, among others.
Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Batu Lintang chairman Sih Hua Tong, represented Sarawak Cultural Research Society president Datuk David Teng at the event.
According to Sih, it is crucial to incorporate traditional elements into any festive celebration to ensure the current generation understands the values that have been passed down.
“Apart from wearing traditional costume and embracing traditional food and lifestyles, there are numerous values that have yet to be conveyed to the urban folk and the new generation.
“Therefore, it is essential for the values to be passed down because it identifies with the community,” he told New Sarawak Tribune.
He also said the bamboo forest was an ideal venue for the programme as bamboo played an integral part in Chinese culture.
Another is Chinese calligraphy.
Graphic designer Chai Ching Lee, 52, said his journey in calligraphy began at the age of 11.
He often holds exhibitions or visits schools to teach calligraphy to the younger generation.
“For calligraphy to remain relevant in today’s setting, the younger generation must be exposed to it from a young age.
“Through various exhibitions, they can also learn a thing or two about calligraphy,” he added.
