JOHOR BAHRU: Hundreds of Chinese people gathered in front of the iconic Crown Arch at the Istana Bukit Serene here, for a ceremony aimed at fostering the spirit of peace and harmony in conjunction with the Chinese New Year.
Many who came with their families and friends, dressed in red outfits were there since 10 am before they dispersed at around 12 noon.
According to a trader, Tan Teck Fat, 42, today is ‘Lichun’ which marks the first day of spring in the Chinese lunar calendar and traditionally this is a day when the Chinese community would perform various rituals to have a fresh start for the year.
“The Crown Arch area is covered with grass and according to our belief, an individual must remove his or her shoes and step on the grass to bring good luck and fortune. The energy from the palace makes it more auspicious and the palace grounds are filled with ‘ong’ (good fortune),” he said.
Another visitor Wee Seng Lee, 39, said this is the second time he has gathered in front of the Crown Arch as he was also there for the customary practice last year.
He said apart from stepping on the grass, another practice usually performed by those present was balancing an egg on a flat surface which would bring good luck to those who succeed in the act.
“I am here with my family, including my 70-year-old mother. We hope this year will bring us good fortune and peace,” he said.
Last year, the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar spent time to mingle with over 2,000 people who were there for the ceremony at the Crown Arch. – Bernama
