Unity under the lantern glow

MUKAH: Over 6,000 people gathered at Dataran Pehin Setia Raja for the 2024 Mukah Division Level Lantern Festival Celebration.

Deputy Minister for Economy Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib said that this was the third year of the festival, with participation increasing each year.

“This demonstrates the strong support from all parties, and I hope the celebration continues to be meaningful for everyone,” she said during the opening ceremony on Saturday night.

“This kind of event helps to promote harmony and appreciation for our diverse cultures.”

Hanifah perfects the opening gimmick of the dragon’s eye drop ceremony during the Lantern Festival celebration.

Penghulu Henry Lee Liong Inn agreed, noting that the festival united not only the Chinese community but also people from various races in the area.

He expressed gratitude to all involved in making the event a success.

The celebration featured a creative giant lantern competition and a lantern parade, with prizes awarded in three categories: government departments, schools, and village development and security committees (JKKK).

The Moon Cake Competition also attracted participants, with Tan Siok Kiang emerging as the champion.

Also present were Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine, Balingian assemblyman Abdul Yakub Arbi, Mukah Division Resident Kueh Lei Poh, and Mukah District Officer Peleadzman Ahip.

People join in, cheering up the lively party parade.