Kampung pulai: The Chinese New Year festivities at the 600-year-old Swee Nyet Keung Temple, also known as Tokong Mek, in Kampung Pulai here were enlivened by the presence of the 'God of Prosperity' or Chai Shen Ye to welcome visitors. Temple staff Cheaw Yee How, 42, said he has donned the costume to portray the deity for the past 12 years, volunteering for the role every first day of the Lunar New Year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Cheaw Yee How mentioned that the temple provides the full costume and accessories to facilitate his duty in greeting the guests. He expressed enjoyment and excitement in meeting the crowd, who are happy to see Chai Shen Ye. He is at the temple from 8.30 am to 11.30 am on the first day of the New Year and then returns home to spend time with his family.

He added that he greets visitors, distributes ang pow packets (red envelopes), and offers blessings as soon as they arrive at the house of worship before they begin their religious rituals. Each year, they receive sponsorship and donations from the public for the festivities, which are placed in ang pow packets, with over 1,000 packets allocated for distribution to guests.

Swee Nyet Keung Temple Beautification Unit deputy chairman Chan Kim Lan said the presence of the fully costumed deity is a major attraction at the temple, which is the oldest in the state. The friendly nature of the Chai Shen Ye character, who knows how to win over the hearts of the people, is well-liked by the visitors.

Meanwhile, a visitor from Kuala Lumpur, Pauline Chew Phik Sim, 51, mentioned she seized the opportunity to bring her pet to the temple to meet the God of Prosperity. Every year, she visits her in-laws in the area and brings along her pet poodle to visit the temple.