KUCHING: Carpenter Street came alive last night (Jan 13) as thousands of devotees gathered to take part in the annual grand procession of deity Xuan Tian Shang Ti.
The grand and colourful event saw around 170 troupes embarking on a journey that commenced at the Hiang Tiang Siang Ti Temple, passing through Ban Hock Road, Pandungan Road, and returning to the temple.
The atmosphere around Carpenter Street was abuzz with excitement from as early as 4.30 pm, thanks to the favourable weather that drew both participants and onlookers alike.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who was among those present, said the grand procession stood as a testament to the unity that is inherent in Sarawak’s cultural diversity.
“This procession is part of our Sarawakian culture, and it is not only a Chinese culture, but it is the culture of various races. Today we are gathered here to seek blessings and peace for all Sarawakians.
“The Sarawak government is appreciative towards this culture that has persisted for hundreds of years, and we want to continue to support this, as we are all citizens of Sarawak.
“Therefore, I hope through our tolerance and unity, we can continue to make Sarawak better,” he said in his speech before the start of the procession here.
One of the highlights of the procession was the lantern float featuring a distinctive red-headed boat design, which measured 16 feet long, 10 and a half feet wide, and 12-foot-tall, adorned with lanterns. The red-headed boat design is a symbol of prosperity and happiness.
Complementing this centrepiece were two general floats, measuring 16 feet by 13.5 feet by 13 feet, and 12 feet by 9.5 feet by 12 feet, meticulously designed and crafted by a team of professionals.
The event also welcomed representatives not only from Sarawak but also China’s Teochew Qinglong Ancient Temple, Shenzhen Teochew Boying Chorus, Johor’s Teochew Eight Districts Association and Seu Teck Muar.
Notably, the grand procession of Xuan Tian Shang Ti is not a celebration of the deity’s birthday, which falls on the third day of the third lunar month.
The annual grand procession, which falls on the fourth day of the 12th lunar month, is seen as a gesture of gratitude to seek the deity’s blessings for favourable weather, peace, and prosperity.
Meanwhile, Xuan Tian Shang Ti, also known as Hiang Thian Siang Ti, serves as the host deity of the Hiang Tiang Siang Ti Temple in Kuching and similar temples across Sarawak and Malaysia.
The temple, located at Carpenter Street, has been the spiritual home since the migration of Teochew people more than a century ago.
Though its history dates back to 1844, the temple underwent reconstruction and completion in 1889, following a fire in 1884.
The original architectural structure remains well-preserved, not only serving as a landmark in Carpenter Street, but also attracting foreign visitors, contributing to its immense popularity in the capital city.
Also present at the procession were Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen, Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen, and Kuching Teochew Association president Chiew Boon Seng.
