KUCHING, Feb 1, 2026 — The Chinese Martial Art Association (CMAA) Dragon and Lion Dance Team marked the arrival of the 2026 Chinese New Year of the Horse with the unveiling of 11 new lions in a ceremony filled with tradition, cultural pride and festive spirit. The meaningful event took place at the historic Tua Pek Kong Temple here and drew strong support from community leaders, sponsors and cultural enthusiasts.
The traditional eye-dotting ceremony, a key ritual believed to bring life and blessings to the lions, was officiated by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also the Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government. His presence highlighted the importance of preserving Chinese cultural heritage in Sarawak. He was accompanied by CMAA Founder Master Law Kaw Chai, CMAA advisor Pemanca Tan Kun Gee, as well as several long-time sponsors and supporters who have contributed to the association’s growth over the years.
CMAA President Mr Chester Lim said the association was honoured by the strong show of support and described the unveiling of the 11 new lions as a meaningful step in preparing for the festive season. He noted that the ceremony also carried deeper significance as it coincided with CMAA’s 52nd anniversary, marking more than five decades of dedication to martial arts and lion dance culture since its founding in 1974.
In his speech, Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian praised CMAA for its consistency and perseverance in safeguarding the dragon and lion dance tradition in Sarawak. He highlighted that CMAA had been entrusted to coordinate dragon and lion dance performances during Sarawak Chinese New Year State Functions for three consecutive years from 2024 to 2026. He also acknowledged the association’s success in organising the Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup in both 2024 and 2025.
He further congratulated the CMAA Northern Lion Dance Team for its historic achievement at the 2026 Sanya Cup International Dragon and Lion Dance Elite Competition in Hainan, China. The team placed sixth overall, finishing ahead of higher-ranked teams from Indonesia and Korea, a result that brought pride to Sarawak and Malaysia.
CMAA Treasurer Mr Nelson Nguang Kim Ban and Wushu Coach Mr Calvin Kong Ngon Chung shared that the team has a busy schedule ahead, with performances planned at homes and business premises from the first to the sixth day of Chinese New Year. The ceremony concluded with prayers for health, success and prosperity for all members and supporters in the coming year, reinforcing CMAA’s role as a cultural pillar in the local community.
