KUCHING, Nov 4 — Tomorrow, Kuching will witness a historic and grand welcoming ceremony as statues of the revered deities Guang Ze Zun Wang and Miao Ying Xian Fei, both Seng Ong Kong deities from Fujian, China, arrive at Kuching International Airport (KIA). The Hong San Si Temple committee, along with local dignitaries, is prepared to receive these sacred statues with great reverence, including a vibrant lion dance performance to mark this special occasion.
According to Kuching Hockien Association president Dato Richard Wee, this visit is part of the deities’ inaugural journey to Malaysia. After touring several locations in West Malaysia, the statues will arrive in Kuching on a private jet from Penang, with their anticipated landing at KIA scheduled for 1.40 pm.
“The statues will be carefully placed on a custom-designed float and escorted in a convoy of seven special vehicles, led by traffic police, from KIA to their temporary home at the Hong San Si Temple on Wayang Street,” Wee explained at a press conference held earlier today. This detailed procession symbolizes a spiritual journey, and the Kuching community has shown high enthusiasm for the ceremony.
The itinerary in Kuching includes a grand worship ceremony on November 6, starting at 9.30 am at the Hong San Si Temple, where devotees are invited to gather and offer prayers to the deities. Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian will grace the event, joined by distinguished guests including Unit For Other Religions (Unifor) director Dato Georgina Apphia Ngau, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, and Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) Member Sih Hua Tong.
From November 6 to 8, Hong San Si Temple will host a series of cultural performances and special prayers for devotees and visitors. These events not only celebrate the deities’ arrival but also foster community spirit and showcase the city’s rich cultural diversity.
After completing their visit in Kuching, the statues will proceed to their final Malaysian destination in Sabah on November 9. The Hong San Si Temple committee and the Kuching Hockien Association have extended their warm invitation to all to participate in this unique celebration of faith and heritage.