Faith in motion as over 190 contingents fill Kuching streets for Hiang Thian Siang Ti procession

Wee (fifth right) during the Hiang Thian Siang Ti Sacred Palanquin Procession in Kuching on Jan 22, 2026.

by Dayangku Hidayatul and Marlynda Meraw

KUCHING, Jan 22: The steady beat of drums echoes through the city as clouds of incense drifted into the afternoon air, marking the return of the Hiang Thian Siang Ti Temple’s annual sacred palanquin procession; a spectacle of faith and colour that drew more than 190 contingents and floats through the streets of Kuching today.

Held for nearly six decades since its inception in 1968, the procession, organised by the Teochew Association in Sarawak took place on the fourth day of the 12th month of the Chinese Lunar Calendar, continuing a tradition deeply rooted in devotion, heritage and community spirit.

One of the floats during the procession on Jan 22, 2026.

From early afternoon, Carpenter Street was transformed into a vibrant ceremonial corridor. Elaborately decorated floats rolled forward in stately succession, flanked by performers in vivid costumes who brought ancient legends to life.

Among them were portrayals of Nezha, the youthful warrior deity, and Sun Wu Kong, the renowned mischievous Monkey King.

Participants dressed up as Nezha (centre, red) and Sun Wu Kong (right) during the procession on Jan 22, 2026.

Lion dance troupes leapt and swayed to the rhythmic clash of cymbals, their brilliantly coloured heads snapping and bobbing with lifelike energy while towering above the crowd, sinuous dragon dance teams weaved through the procession. Their long, mythical bodies undulating like as they twisted within the streets.

Colourful lion dance troupe walking through the streets during the procession on Jan 22, 2026.

Colourful dragon weaving through the streets of Kuching during the temple procession on Jan 22, 2026.

Adding a playful yet auspicious touch were multiple appearances of Cai Shen Ye, the God of Wealth and Prosperity, portrayed by different float groups.

Dressed in gold-trimmed robes and bearing symbolic treasures, Cai Shen Ye moved through the parade greeting spectators, drawing smiles and camera flashes as children and adults alike reached out for blessings of good fortune.

Cai Shen Ye greeting the spectators during the parade on Jan 22, 2026.

The atmosphere balanced celebration with reverence, reflecting a tradition that honours both divine worship and communal unity.

Spectators from all walks of life: families, tourists, elders and young children gathered along the streets, soaking in the pageantry.

For many, the procession was not only a religious event, but a shared cultural experience that brought generations together under a common rhythm of drums, footsteps and belief.

Traditional Chinese drums being played during the procession.

The sacred palanquin procession was officiated by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who was represented by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng.

In his speech, Wee said the procession is not only a significant celebration for the Chinese community, but also an important cultural landscape for Sarawak as a whole.

“The Hiang Thian Siang Ti Sacred Palanquin Procession is not merely a religious ritual, but an important occasion that brings together faith, culture and community strength,” he said.

A curious onlooker observing the procession from the window of his shophouse.

“It reflects the Chinese community’s deep devotion to their beliefs and embodies a cultural spirit that has been passed down through generations.

“Each procession serves as a cultural dialogue that transcends time, allowing the younger generation, amid both vibrancy and solemnity, to understand their roots and appreciate the values of respecting Heaven, respecting people and upholding virtue,” added Wee.

Participants dressed in various characters, bringing life to them as they walked along Carpenter Street on Jan 22, 2026.

Wee noted that the procession has continued to grow over the years, with increasing public participation annually.

He attributed the success of the event to the dedication of the organisers and the strong cooperation among various associations and community groups. — DayakDaily