Sea of white-clad devotees mark final day of Nine Emperor Gods Festival in Kuching

1 hour ago 2

ADVERTISE HERE

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Oct 19: A sea of white-clad devotees gathered at the Kuching Sungai Apong Nine Emperor Gods Palace yesterday (Oct 18) as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival marked its ninth and final day.

The annual Taoist festival is observed during the ninth lunar month, with devotees gathering to honour the Nine Emperor Gods and pray for blessings, good health and prosperity. Wearing white is a common practice during the festival.

The ninth day traditionally marks the closing of the celebration, with rituals observed according to the temple’s customs.

Beyond the religious observance, the festival also brings devotees together to uphold traditions passed down through generations.

Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, who attended the Nine Emperor Gods Birthday Celebration organised by Nine Emperor Gods Temple (Jiu Huang Gong), said such celebrations also provided opportunities for people of different races and religions to interact and build friendships.

He said Sarawak’s peace and harmony depended on mutual respect and understanding among its diverse communities.

“Regardless of our racial, religious or cultural backgrounds, we all want to live in a peaceful, harmonious and caring society. This is the strength of Sarawak, and it is something we must continue to preserve and protect,” he said.

Wee also urged community organisations and religious institutions to extend their work beyond festive celebrations by supporting education, youth development and social welfare.

He said these organisations could help identify senior citizens, low-income families and vulnerable people who needed assistance, serving as a link between the government and the community.

He encouraged them to provide scholarships, skills training and other educational opportunities to help young people prepare for Sarawak’s growing digital economy and high-value industries.

“A truly developed society is not measured solely by modern buildings, advanced infrastructure or economic achievements. It is also measured by how well we care for one another, especially the elderly, the underprivileged and those who need our support,” he said.

Wee called on Sarawakians to continue respecting one another regardless of race or religion, stressing that everyone had a role to play in building a more inclusive and caring society. — DayakDaily

Read Entire Article