ALOR GAJAH, Jan 12 (Bernama) — The competition to decorate Chinese new villages for the Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrations has the potential to evolve into a major state tourism attraction, while simultaneously promoting creativity and unity among local residents.
Chinese New Village Division Secretariat chairman Khoo Poay Tiong said that the competition is expected to attract participants from 613 new villages nationwide, particularly in prime locations such as Melaka.
“Last year, 50 villages participated, and we hope for even greater participation this year, with winners to be announced after the Chinese New Year,” he shared with reporters after officiating the Lantern Festival for the Chinese New Year celebrations at Kampung Baru Machap Umboo, which was also attended by state Health, Human Resources, and Unity Committee chairman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem.
Khoo, also the Member of Parliament for Kota Laksamana, added that the creative displays from villagers this year are expected to surpass last year’s efforts, as 2025 marks the Year of the Snake in the Chinese lunar calendar.
“In 2024, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) named Kampung Baru Machap Umboo as the winner and awarded them RM10,000. This year, KPKT has announced a surprise regarding the main prize, and we are hopeful for increased participation,” he said.
He further emphasised that the competition not only adds vibrancy to the CNY celebrations but also has the potential to become a sought-after tourist attraction. At the same time, it presents an excellent opportunity for the community to learn about the village, some of which boast rich and captivating histories.
Meanwhile, Datuk Yap Young Leong, advisor to Kampung Baru Machap Umboo, shared that nearly 15,000 lanterns, crafted from recycled materials in a variety of shapes and sizes, have been on display since last week to usher in the CNY festivities.
He noted that the tradition of decorating the village continues with its signature concept – using recycled items such as cooking oil bottles, beverage cans, and air conditioner hoses. This year, the decorations have been further enhanced thanks to the collaborative efforts and creative input from the villagers.
“Our goal is to once again win the competition organised by the KPKT, and with it, to draw even more tourists, especially since we welcomed over one million visitors during last year’s CNY celebrations.
What makes this year’s event even more exciting, Yap added, is the photography contest, where the grand prize is a motorcycle. Visitors can capture the beauty of the sparkling lights and intricate decorations and share their photos on the village’s Facebook page to participate in the competition.
— BERNAMA
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