295-foot fire dragon to headline Seng Ong Deity Birthday procession in Kuching

KUCHING (April 6): A locally crafted, record-breaking 295-foot-long fire dragon puppet, Hior Huay Liong, will take centre stage at this year’s Seng Ong Deity Birthday Procession on Thursday, following its eye-dotting and consecration ceremony held at Hong San Si Temple on Monday.

The ceremony marked the official launch of the grand procession, which is expected to draw one of the largest turnouts in recent years with 222 participating teams.

Organised by the Kuching Hokkien Association, the annual procession will feature an extensive lineup of dragon and lion dance troupes, alongside cultural performances including the Guan-Jiang-Shou troupe from Miri, Malay drum group Kumpulan Hadrah Sri Melati, and Sarawak indigenous groups.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the procession, which has been held for more than 100 years, has grown beyond a traditional Taoist celebration into a symbol of unity for the state.

He said the event now brings together people of different races and religions, reflecting mutual respect and harmony in Sarawak.

“This is not just a temple procession, but a blessing for Sarawak. You see participation from other communities including Malays and Dayaks, and this shows the spirit of unity,” he told reporters after officiating the ceremony.

Dr Sim said the 295-foot dragon puppet, which is expected to be recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records, also incorporates Sarawak elements such as the hornbill, reflecting the state’s unique identity.

He also highlighted the growing role of local craftsmanship in the celebration, noting that many of the dragon and lion heads are now produced locally instead of being imported.

“We used to buy from overseas because we did not have the expertise, but now we are able to make them ourselves with our own Sarawak features.

“This reflects the development of local talent and contributes to nation-building,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kuching Hokkien Association president Datuk Seri Richard Wee said the procession will begin at around 3.30pm, following its usual route through Padungan, Gambier Street and surrounding areas before returning to the temple at Wayang Street.

He said participating groups are encouraged to arrive early for lineup arrangements, with the deity procession expected to commence at around 6.30pm.

Among the main highlights this year is the specially crafted incense fire dragon, which will carry joss sticks along its entire 295-foot body, allowing devotees to place offerings throughout the structure.

Organisers said the strong response to this year’s event reflects continued public support and deep-rooted faith in the Seng Ong Deity, with registrations fully taken up within a short period.

The procession remains one of Kuching’s most significant annual religious and cultural events, serving as both a platform for devotion and the preservation of traditional heritage.

Among those present were South Kuching mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, Hong San Si Temple chief Foo Boon Leong, and Padawan Municipal Council chairman Tan Kai.