Carnival atmosphere at CNY launch

KUANTAN: The festive mood was apparent in Air Putih with the launch of the inaugural Chinese New Year carnival to usher in the Year of the Rabbit.

Semambu assemblyman Datuk Pang Tsu Ming said the area had 90% Chinese residing in the neighbourhood.

“Hence, we proposed to stage a carnival to usher in the Lunar New Year and received favourable response from the Kuantan Municipal Council president Datuk Zulkifli Yaacob.

Good support: Pang (centre in red shirt) and Shafik Fauzan (third from left) distributing mandarin oranges to residents in Air Putih, Kuantan while opening the carnival.

“More lanterns were displayed around Kuantan town this year particularly along the junction leading into Semambu, SJK (C) Pei Chai and Air Putih.

“We are thankful for his support and urge the business community and individuals to complement the efforts to generate a more colourful and lively Chinese New Year atmosphere for all to enjoy,” he said after launching the carnival with Pahang Arts, Tourism, Women, Family and Community Development Committee chairman Datuk Shafik Fauzan Sharif recently.

Pang and Shafik Fauzan later proceeded to distribute mandarin oranges to residents who turned up in droves to attend the nightly programmes and activities.

Among the events lined up were lion and dragon dances, wushu and acrobatic performances, cultural dances, karaoke contest and parading of lanterns.

Pang said the carnival was mooted by his Indera Mahkota MCA division with the support of Chinese guilds and associations and businessmen.

He said the division had set aside RM30,000 for the purpose and the organising committee had worked tirelessly to look for sponsors.

“We hope this signals a good start and will continue with this tradition in years to come so that the Chinese community can celebrate the joyous occasion and share it with others,” he said.

-The Star-