New dragons, lions to enliven CNY

KUCHING: The Chinese Martial Art Association (CMAA) Dragon and Lion Dance Team has introduced two new dragons and twelve new lions for the upcoming Chinese New Year.

CMAA president, Chester Lim, expressed the association’s readiness to contribute to the festivities in the Year of the Dragon.

“The association is honoured to have today’s eye-dotting ceremony (Jan 14) officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, joined by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, CMAA Advisor Emeritus Datuk Yong Khoon Seng, CMAA Founder Master Law Kaw Chai, and CMAA Advisor Kapitan Tan Kun Gee,” he said in a statement.

This year’s ceremony, marking the association’s 50th anniversary since its inception in 1974, was conducted at the association’s premises to honour its “Zhu Shi Ye” (Ancestral Deity).

The event also saw the participation of CMAA secretary Victor Chin Chiu Hian, treasurer Nelson Nguang Kim Ban, Wushu coach Calvin Kong Nyun Chung, association members, and special invitees.

Looking ahead to the festival, Nelson and Calvin, leading the team, plan performances at residences and commercial premises, particularly from the first to the sixth day of the New Year.

Dr Sim (11th right) with Lim (10th right) and together with CMAA Dragon and Lion Dance Team members are seen in a group photograph.