The Carnival was filled with celebration and anticipation of the Lunar New Year and it was apparent on the faces of so many people that came to Lintasan Deasoka. With the crowd full of joy and merriment from the spirit of such festivities in welcoming the Lunar Year, many were also present to check out what items that catches their eye at the market because this only happens once a year. The streets were brightly lit with Chinese lanterns (which is also known as ‘Tang Lung’ ) hung along the market; coruscating and resplendent amidst the multifarious vendors along the stretch of Gaya Street.

Cultural performances could also be seen upon the stage which also included traditional Chinese songs and dances performed by so many talented and charming young performers and artists. From the 21st to 22nd, the performances included a singing competition as well, both which were performed by students from local schools in Kota Kinabalu city. The performers mostly in their traditional Chinese costumes frolicking and enjoying themselves whilst putting on a good show, made their whole performance much more breathtaking and awe-inspiring.

Seeing so many lively faces especially on the children, due to the items that the diversity of vendors had to offer at the night market. Various items were so appealing along the whole stretch which included not only colorful, marvelous lanterns and decorations for the Chinese new year jubilation but also wonderful assortment of delightful and tasty pastries, biscuits and candies. These are some of the unique items sold at the night market for this jovial season.

The closing ceremony which was held on the 23rd, was executed flawlessly and attended by so many, from locals to tourists and high officials alike which was ended with displays of scintillating fireworks.

Life in Borneo would like to wish all our  Chinese readers, wherever you are; Gong Xi Fa Cai, Happy Chinese New Year! Let us welcome this year with an open heart and willingness to work hard together and bring about prosperity to each other.

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• Sabah Fest 2008 Launched – An Evening of Colours (11)
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The festival was officiated by Deputy Chief Minister Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin, who represented the Chief Minister of Sabah, Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman. There were a host of other dignitaries that attended the event, including Datuk Raymond Tan, Datuk Yee Moh Chai and the Mayor of Kota Kinabalu, Datuk Illyas Ibrahim.

The highlights of the festival were the dances, performed using props shaped into one of the three mythical creatures of Chinese folklores – the Lion, the Dragon and the Unicorn. These dances were performed with martial arts discipline but with the grace of a dancer, perfectly choreographed to deliver breathtaking stunts.

The Dragon, Unicorn and Lion Dance Festival 2009 was the biggest event held in Kota Kinabalu so far, and we are certain that more and much bigger events will be heading our way in the Year of the Ox. What a way to start the Chinese New Year!

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The award winning Sarawak Cultural Village is a living museum of cultural diversity and fascinating heritage. Located at the foothills of Mount Santubong, the misty atmosphere adds to the touch of mystery and sets the scene taking you back to the days of legends and myths.

Main entrance to the village.

This living museum depicts the cultures of the major racial groups in Sarawak like the Malay, Iban, Melanau, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, Penan, Chinese and more.

Orang-Ulu house

Melanau House

Bidayuh House

19 Tree of life wall decoration

Spanning 14 acres, traditional houses complete with the people in their ethnic costumes are always there to welcome you.

How to get there :
by shuttle bus: price RM 10.00
by taxi cab: price RM 40.00
(approximately about 1 hour drive from Kuching city to the village)

Sarawak Cultural Village
Pantai Damai, Santubong,
P.O.Box 2632, 93752 Kuching,
Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (+6082) 846 411
Fax: (+6082) 846 988
Email: info@scv.com.my
Web: www.scv.com.my

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Date: 05 July 2008
Organiser: Persatuan Masyarakat Tionghua Bersekutu Sandakan, Sabah
Contact Person: Organising Chairman
Telephone: +60 89 224026
Email Contact: Catherin.Chua@sabah.gov.my

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