Tey Kim Chai: Sultan’s presence marks a new chapter for Chingay parade, the celebration promotes unity

 

Sin Chew Daily, 29 Feb 2016

(Johor Bahru, 28 Feb) Johor Bharu Tionghua Association president Datuk Seri Tey Kim Chai points out that the Chingay parade this year marks a new beginning in history with the presence of Johor sultan. The parade promotes unity, faith interaction and collaboration among ethnic groups, fulfilling the concept of 1Malaysia concept.

Speaking at the celebration tonight, Tey said ancient temple in Johor has more than 140 years of history since 1870. Each year the parade is scheduled on the 20^th day of lunar calendar. The highlight of the event is the evening parade on the second day.

“According to history, the annual Chingay parade has been held for more than 100 over years. It was stopped for a year when the Japanese troops occupied Malaya during World War II.”

He said the parade is unique in Johor Bahru which also earns international fame. Apart from China, the parade is the largest in Southeast Asia. Each year it attracts few hundred thousands of people of all races to witness the parade.

He hopes the annual event which is more than 100 years now can be continued in the country. He stresses that understanding among various races is the fundamental of unity in Malaysia. Three races live in harmony, work together to move towards the target of the nation.

Dressed in purple t-shirt for Hakka clan, this is Chong’s second time joining the parade

Deputy Education Minister Chong Sin Woon joins the parade in his personal capacity for the second time. As a Hakka, Chong is dressed in the purple t-shirt.

He says that he has just arrived Senai from Sibu, Sarawak at 4pm to join the parade.