Thean Hou Temple kick-starts CNY celebrations with record-breaking artworks

KUALA LUMPUR: Chinese New Year celebrations at the iconic Thean Hou temple in Seputeh, here became a sweeter affair after revealing three record breaking artworks in its vicinity, last night.
The three giant artworks which entered the Malaysian Book of Records consist of the biggest 3D Metal Rooster Paper-Cutting Artwork, the biggest 3D Solar Terms metal panel Paper-Cutting Artwork and the biggest Chinese Chess Set replica.
Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor who officiated the event praised the temple committee for its latest endeavour, saying that Chinese New Year celebrations in the capital will always be celebrated in an atmosphere of harmony by city-folk despite many leaving back to their hometowns to celebrate the festivities.
"Over the years it has always been a pleasure for me to be invited to this temple to celebrate Chinese New Year and other occasions with everyone here. Do not hesitate to invite me for any functions in the future," he said during his speech, adding that the ministry will always be ready to assist the temple committee with its requests.
In a statement by Selangor and Federal Territory Hainan Association, the three installations were part of the temple's Chinese New Year celebration.
Association president Dr C.Y. Tang said that the Paper-Cutting Artwork, entirely made of metal, featured the traditional Chinese paper-cutting art as its main theme.
"The artwork was inspired by the Chinese traditional calendar and aims to highlight the need to respect the natural laws while advocating ancient Chinese folk culture."
He said the giant metal rooster paper-cutting artwork which rotates 360° and is lantern-lit signifies a bright future as well as a guide for the new lunar year.
The Chinese Chess Set replica was built to portray the pattern of the chessboard game which resembles the ancient Chinese dynasties of Chu and Han.
"This symbolic Chess board is intended to explain the great wisdom of Chinese culture revealing highlights using LED technology."
In his speech, Tang emphasised that the temple was not only a place of worship but a tourist attraction which centres on promoting Chinese culture and tradition.
"About 80,000 visitors, both local and foreign come to the temple during the Chinese New Year period. As such the temple committee will continue to organise various programmes to highlight and promote the Chinese culture every year," he said.
The Thean Hou Temple is a six-tiered temple to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu. Costing RM7 million, the temple was completed in 1987 and officially opened in 1989.