Different ethnic groups present their best traditional celebrations … exciting lion and dragon dances and float drumming by the Chinese community groups, joget dance and silat, a Malay martial arts, by the Malay community and also Thaipusam drumming by the Indian community
He remembered the swirl of vibrant costumes, the steady rhythm of drums echoing through the streets, and the simple excitement of standing and watching all the performances.
He remembers the shared joy and sense of togetherness as Singaporeans stood as one in the crowd. These moments and feelings ignited have remained vivid in his memory through the years.
My wish finally came true many years later when I had the opportunity in 2025 as part of a dance group to participate in the event
What’s heart-warming is how all are ultimately united in a common goal – to bring the joy of the festivities to the crowd, the enjoyment of friendships across all ages, ethnicity or even nationalities, and the striving for excellence
Intangible heritage is not only about preserving traditions, but about keeping them alive through people…. Chingay stands as a powerful symbol of cultural resilience, inclusivity and shared national identity