Fasting Muslim students keep lion dance rhythm alive at SMK Tung Hua

SIBU (March 3): As the rhythmic clash of cymbals echoed across the compound of SMK Tung Hua during its Chinese New Year celebration last Wednesday, few realised that the steady tempo guiding the lion’s movements came from two Muslim students who were fasting for Ramadan.

When met during the school’s 10th day of Chinese New Year 2026 celebration on Feb 26, Nur Azra Qistina Abdullah, 15, and Elyshya Evyanna Fikry Roger, 16, shared how their involvement in the Lion Dance Club has shaped their understanding of unity, respect and cultural harmony.

“Unity, to me, is about understanding and being considerate towards one another, like how our non-Muslim friends respect those of us who are fasting,” said Nur Azra.

Both girls have been playing the cymbals for nearly three years, having joined the team at the encouragement of their mothers. What began as a suggestion gradually grew into a genuine passion.

“At first it was a little difficult because I wasn’t used to the rhythm and coordination,” Nur Azra admitted.

Elyshya said she was motivated by a desire to foster unity and the Malaysian spirit, even though lion dances are traditionally associated with the Chinese community.

“Mutual respect is the key,” she said, when asked what message she hopes to convey through her participation.

In a lion dance performance, the cymbals play a crucial role in ‘translating the emotions of the lion’ – whether lively, mischievous or majestic, synchronising closely with the drum and gong.

While not as physically demanding as handling the lion’s head, playing the cymbals requires stamina, particularly during festive seasons when performances are held almost daily.

“Our hands feel sore and our fingers hurt after long performances,” Elyshya shared, adding that there were occasions she felt extremely tired.

Performing while fasting has presented its own challenges, but both described it as manageable.

“It’s not too challenging,” said Nur Azra, noting that proper hydration during non-fasting hours and careful energy management help her stay focused.

Throughout Ramadan, they said their teammates have been fully supportive, a gesture that reflects the very unity they speak of.

Beyond the applause, both students said the experience has broadened their perspectives.

“I’ve learned communication without words, to ‘listen’ with my eyes and heart,” Nur Azra reflected, explaining how lion dance demands instinctive understanding among team members.

Encouraged by their families who are even supportive of them learning the lion head role in the future, both are determined to continue their journey in lion dance.