Kuching, Feb 8 — The Wushu Association Kuching (WAK) successfully held its Lion Eye-Dotting Ceremony this morning at Zong Fuk Gong Petanak, drawing strong support from community leaders, sponsors and cultural enthusiasts.
The ceremony, which began at 8.00am, marked the official unveiling and blessing of four new lion dance costumes, including two lions sponsored by Serapi Farm owner Mr Randell Lim. The traditional ritual symbolises bringing life, spirit and good fortune to the lion dance, an important part of Chinese cultural heritage.
The eye-dotting ceremony, or deem jing, is a vital Chinese ritual used to “awaken” and imbue new lion or dragon dance costumes with life, spirit, and energy before their first performance. Typically performed by a guest of honor, it involves painting the eyes, ears, and other features with red pigment to invite good luck, health, prosperity, and protection.
The event was attended by several prominent figures, including WAK President Mr Thomas Liu, WAK Advisor Datuk Yong Khoon Seng, WAK Advisor Mr Sih Hua Tong, and WAK Founder and Life Advisor Mr Chester Lim. Their presence reflected continued support towards preserving traditional martial arts and lion dance activities in Kuching.
Sponsors and supporters who contributed to the success of the ceremony were also present. They included Serapi Farm Sdn. Bhd., represented by Mr Randell Lim and Ms Tiffany Ting, Mega Maju Sdn. Bhd., represented by Mr Alvin Lui Ha Chiew, Ms Irene Wong Ai Ling and Mr Tan Kah Sen. Also attending the ceremony was Zong Fuk Gong Temple Committee Chairman Mr Kho Yii Hua, who welcomed guests and participants to the temple grounds.
Speaking during the event, WAK representatives expressed appreciation to all advisors, sponsors and supporters for their contributions and continuous encouragement. They highlighted that the addition of the new lion dance costumes will strengthen WAK’s efforts in promoting cultural performances, especially during festive celebrations and community events.
The ceremony was carried out according to traditional customs, with prayers and symbolic rituals performed to bless the new lions. The lively atmosphere was further enhanced by lion dance performances that attracted attention from visitors and nearby market-goers.
The successful ceremony reflects the strong commitment of WAK and the local community in preserving cultural traditions and passing them down to future generations.
