By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, Feb 15 — Some 15,000 people statewide are anticipated to attend the state-level Chinese New Year celebration at IOI City Mall, Putrajaya on February 24.
State executive councillor for investment, trade and mobility Ng Sze Han said the event will feature various activities and cultural performances.
He highlighted the importance of celebrating the festival considering the Chinese community comprises the second-largest population in the country and Chinese New Year is embraced by people of all backgrounds, alongside other major festivals like Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Deepavali and Christmas.
“The state-level celebration aims to enhance the relationship between leaders and the community, particularly in Selangor.
“It also seeks to promote understanding among the diverse communities in the country and symbolises Malaysia’s unique multicultural fabric, comprising various races and religions,” he said at a press conference at Invest Selangor Bhd’s headquarters, here, today.
Invest Selangor chief executive officer Datuk Hasan Azhari Idris was also present.
Ng said the February 24 celebration will be graced by Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj and Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin.
Others who will be present include Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, state executive councillors, senior state officers and industry players.
“Approximately 15,000 people are expected to visit the IOI City Mall in Putrajaya to celebrate the state-level Chinese New Year celebration,” he said.
The event will take place from 10am to 6pm and is open to the general public.
Ng said attendees will be entertained by a colourful array of cultural performances, including traditional Malaysian dances like the dragon dance and lion dance, as well as gamelan and drums.
“These performances beautifully showcase Malaysia’s rich heritage and traditional culture.
“To add excitement to the festival, we’ll continue the tradition of giving ang pow to children under 12 and handing out oranges,” he said.
The programme, themed ‘Perayaan Muafakat’ (Celebration of Harmony), will feature five main performances led by local art director Anthony Meh, who will spearhead the Dua Space Dance Theater and choreograph the performances.
Additionally, there will be performances from various artists and groups, including ASK Dance Company, Vehaara Arts Dance Studio, VIVO Experimental Orchestra, Souls Impact, Khan Loke Dragon and Lion Dance Association, and Yu Hua Dragon and Lion Dance Association.
