A LIVELY Dondang Sayang procession made its way from the State Chinese Penang Association in Jalan Perak to the Esplanade in the heart of George Town for the traditional Chap Goh Meh celebrations today.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who flagged off the procession this evening, praised the organising committee of the Chap Goh Meh celebration for their dedication and commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
“A group of very special people (Babas and Nyonyas) come together in very colourful costumes and jewelry, to celebrate this occasion by having the Dondang Sayang performance in a beautifully decorated float.
“The Peranakan culture in Penang and Malaysia is a testament to the rich heritage and cultural tradition in this country, and all of you have shouldered this responsibility to pass on this legacy to the next generation.
“And it is through all the tireless efforts of the State Chinese Penang Association, in particular, that we can continue to meet and address some of the issues that the community faces.
“The state government is always looking for opportunities on how we can collaborate.
“Later in the evening, we will all be going to the Esplanade with the spirit of Chap Goh Meh tonight.
“Let us not only enjoy the festivities but also embrace the rich cultural heritage that defines us as Penangites.
“I wish everyone Happy Chap Goh Meh and I am sure you will paint the city red tonight. I look forward to joining in the merriment and the festivity with all of you,” Chow said in his short speech, eliciting laughter from the gathered crowd.
Present at the flag-off ceremony were Chow’s wife, Madam Tan Lean Kee, State Chinese Penang Association president Datuk Seri Tan Gin Soon, deputy president Datuk Lilian Tong, and their members.
Tan proudly shared that his association has been actively involved in the annual Chap Goh Meh celebration for an impressive 104th anniversary of this Peranakan fraternity since its humble beginning in 1920.
Peranakan refers to the descendants of early immigrants who intermarried with local women, with the male offspring known as Babas and the female offspring known as Nyonyas. Noteworthy Peranakan centres include Melaka, Singapore, Penang, Phuket and Tangerang.
About 100 Babas and Nyonyas took part in today’s annual event, with many of them ranging from 40s to 80s. Notably, Soon Chun Keat, 56, and his wife Celeste Tan, 44, stood out as they brought along their two daughters, Melody Soon, 12, and Magdalene Soon, nine, to gain insights into the Peranakan culture.
Some boarded two Dondang Sayang floats while others joined a bus, singing along to the live band playing keroncong music as the procession wound its way through the streets of George Town.
The sight of the Babas and Nyonyas waving to the crowd enhanced the procession’s charm, deeply rooted in the historical traditions and heritage of the Peranakan fraternity.
When they arrived at the Esplanade, the entourage disembarked from the floats and bus to engage in the orange-tossing ceremony. The participants also showcased traditional dances such as joget, inang, zapin and other creative dances, accompanied by the live keroncong band.
Chap Goh Meh, literally translated as the 15th night, signifies the culmination of the Lunar New Year celebrations.
It also coincides with the Chinese Valentine’s Day. Traditionally, single women partake in the custom of throwing mandarin oranges into ponds or lakes to find their Mr Right. To facilitate connections, these women will inscribe their names or contact details on the oranges.
Bachelors collecting the oranges undertake the necessary follow-up, making the occasion a unique blend of tradition and romantic possibilities.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissa Thian
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi