Sabah: Writing wishes, prayers and hopes on lanterns before releasing them into the sky, known as ‘kong ming deng’, is among the Chinese community’s traditions when the lunar new year arrives. Yong Loi Heng, 65, said this tradition is usually celebrated with family members and friends on the 15th day of the lunar new year to offer prayers for good health, prosperity and lasting harmony.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the kong ming deng night is truly festive and very much anticipated, as the sky will be illuminated by the glow of lanterns. The floating lanterns are interpreted as letting go of the past and driving misfortune far away, while at the same time bringing new hope. The higher the kong ming deng rises, the better the fortune will be. Like the movement of a horse, there is a hope that the new year will be filled with spirit, strength and perseverance. These sentiments were shared by Yong Loi Heng when met by reporters at Kampung Batu Papan 2 recently.

For Thong Yoke Tong, 50, the celebration not only keeps alive a long-standing tradition but also unites through family gatherings before releasing the lanterns into the sky. The atmosphere is lively and the strong family bond is palpable. Participants read aloud the prayers written on each lantern and offer well-wishes to one another. Sky lanterns made of thin paper with a place to put the wick to light the flame are used. The lanterns are purchased earlier in large quantities to allow for the inscription of hopes and dreams.

Thong Yoke Tong added that the kong ming deng event is also awaited by the local community, including Malays and Indians, who gather to watch the lanterns being released. Every year, neighbours join in, creating a sense of gratitude to live peacefully and harmoniously in a multiracial society.