KUCHING: Five new lions were brought to life with the traditional eye-dotting ritual performed by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian ahead of the forthcoming Chinese New Year.
The ceremony held at the Chinese Martial Art Association (CMAA) saw Dr Sim conducting the ritual accompanied by CMAA Chairman Chester Lim and members the Tua Pek Kong Temple, on Sunday (Jan 9).
In Chinese culture the eyes reflect the spirit and thus the eye-dotting ceremony is the last step before the lion comes alive, empowering it to to fulfill its duty to bring about good luck, health, prosperity and protection.
According to Lim the five new lions for the celebration were exclusive models with traditional designs and finishing.
“Each and every one of the lions bears colours that are a representation of the various heroes from the Three Kingdoms era.
“Liu Bei (rainbow colour), Guan Yu (red), Zhang Fei (black) and the characteristics of brotherhood, honour, valour, justice, benevolence, loyalty and righteousness are associated with them,” Lim explained.
He said since CMAA was founded in 1974, the association had made it an annual affair to unveil new lions for every Chinese New Year.
Dr Sim commended the association for its tireless efforts over last 47 years to promote Chinese culture and tradition.
At the event, devotees at the temple were treated to an impromptu preview performance by the CMAA Lion Dance Troupe.
Also present were CMAA Adviser Datuk Yong Khoon Seng and CMAA founder adviser Law Kaw Chai.
