BUTTERWORTH: The Chingay parade, synonymous with the Chinese cultural traditions, is not merely a performance but also unites people of all races.
This was seen during the Penang Chingay Parade 2025 held on Jalan Dato Haji Ahmad Said, Bagan Luar, on Saturday, which also saw the participation of those in the Malay and Indian communities.
Jamil Mohamed, 45, a member of the Persatuan Chingay Seberang Perai, said he started being involved in the Chinese tradition when he was 15 years old.
He said he had mastered several skills and agility techniques commonly showcased in Chingay performances.
"I see Chingay as a 'game' that tests my skills, and the team gives a lot of support.
"My son (Mohd Hazziq Zaqkuan, 13) has also started showing interest in Chingay and joined this team a few months ago," he said.
Meanwhile, P Thuchagaran, 49, said he had participated in Chingay performances for the past 20 years, and now his son had also joined the team with six other Indian friends.
"My father was among the Chingay players who were part of the city council team and I used to follow him to his practice sessions which attracted me to join.
"This is not about the traditions of other communities, but rather the ability to control the flag and turn it into a healthy activity that anyone can try," he said.
Team leader Phee Boon Chong said his team had 70 members aged between 13 and 70.
The 64-year-old said they would normally train for two months before joining the parade.
"Most members can perform the act of kicking a three-metre-high flagpole, which requires quite a significant amount of time to hone their talent and skills.
"We welcome the participation of all, making our team more 'colourful'," he said.
The parade was launched by state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
The parade towards Tow Boo Kong Temple was 4.5 kilometres long, and performances from groups doing aerobics, lion dance, marching bands, Silambam association, Muay Thai club, and decorated floats.
Wong, in his speech, said Chingay in Penang was not just entertainment, but a symbol of collaboration and appreciation of the rich culture shared by all communities.
He said balancing a flagpole that was 12 metres high with a flag that was 7.6 metres wide and weighed 10 kilogrammes was not an easy feat.
"They put the flagpoles on their chins, foreheads on their shoulders or behind their necks.
"We hope the Chingay parade will also be nominated as a Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage, alongside the kebaya," he added.