KUCHING, Sept 3 — The Lien Heng Wushu Association has made history in Sarawak with its spectacular 188-foot-long fire dragon, which has been officially recognised by the Malaysian Book of Records (MBR) as the longest fire dragon in Malaysia. This incredible achievement not only highlights the cultural heritage of Kuching but also solidifies the association’s position as a leading promoter of traditional Chinese martial arts and customs in Malaysia.
MBR Recognises Three Major Achievements by Lien Heng Wushu Association
The record-breaking fire dragon was first showcased during the Seng Ong Kong deity’s birthday celebration in March this year, captivating the audience with its fiery movements and elaborate design. The association’s dedication to preserving and promoting Chinese culture was further acknowledged by the MBR in three distinct categories:
- Largest Incense Fire Dragon Head
- Largest Incense Fire Dragon Parade (6,800 participants)
- Most Incense Fire Dragon Amulets Distributed in an Event (9,999 amulets)
These recognitions underscore the scale and cultural significance of the event, making it one of the most memorable cultural displays in Sarawak’s history.
The Cultural Significance of the Fire Dragon
According to Master Ronny Chin, president of the Lien Heng Wushu Association, the custom of the fire dragon has been embraced in Sarawak since 2017. The fire dragon dance, which originated in China over a thousand years ago, is believed to have protective powers.
“This fire dragon tradition began when a woman had a dream about building a fire dragon to parade through the village to ward off diseases,” Chin explained during an appreciation night held at a local restaurant on Sept 2. “Since then, this cultural practice has been preserved and passed down through generations, and we are proud to bring it to Sarawak and Malaysia.”
Sarawak’s Growing Appreciation for Traditional Chinese Heritage
The recognition of the 188-foot-long fire dragon in the Malaysian Book of Records reflects Sarawak’s growing appreciation for Chinese cultural heritage and the efforts of local communities in preserving age-old traditions. The event attracted a large crowd, including Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong, Padawan Municipal Council Chairman Tan Kai, and Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations (SFCA) President Dato Richard Wee, who were present to witness the record-breaking achievements.
Aiming for Greater Heights: Plans for an Even Longer Fire Dragon
Chin announced that the association has even bigger plans for the future. Inspired by their latest achievement, Lien Heng Wushu Association aims to construct an even longer fire dragon next year, with each subsequent dragon being seven feet longer than the previous one. This ambitious goal not only represents a commitment to pushing boundaries but also serves to inspire the younger generation to appreciate and participate in cultural preservation efforts.
“Our plan is to create a dragon that is longer and more magnificent each year,” Chin added. “This is not just about setting records; it’s about keeping the tradition alive and involving more people in this cultural art form.”
The Role of Community in Achieving Success
The success of the fire dragon event was made possible by the community’s strong support and participation. Over 6,800 individuals joined the parade, and 9,999 incense fire dragon amulets were distributed, symbolising blessings and good fortune. The scale of involvement underscores the cultural importance of such events in fostering community spirit and unity among Sarawakians.
Conclusion
The Lien Heng Wushu Association’s achievements have not only set new records but have also reignited interest in traditional Chinese customs within Sarawak. As the association continues to aim higher, there is no doubt that the fire dragon will become an enduring symbol of cultural pride for Kuching and the whole of Malaysia.
The recognition by the Malaysian Book of Records is a testament to Sarawak’s vibrant cultural tapestry and the dedication of its people to preserving traditions that connect past generations with the present.