Why do vel kavadi bearers feel no pain while being pierced by sharp skewers or hooks?

ONE of the amazing aspects about vel kavadi bearers during the Thaipusam celebrations is the lack of pain, infection and bleeding they experience.

The reason behind this is claimed to be the holy ash that is smeared on the parts of the body which are to be pierced by the vel skewers or hooks.

This holy ash is composed primarily of dried cow’s dung, which has a long history of being used as an antiseptic in Indian traditional medicine.

Not many scientific studies have been done on this possible interesting property of cow dung, although a group of students at Perdana University’s Graduate School of Medicine in Serdang, Selangor, are currently looking into it.

Assoc Prof Dr Mohanraj… Pain can be either sensory or emotional.

Assoc Prof Dr Andrew Mohanraj, who is one of their supervisors, does not overlook the possibility that this holy ash is indeed, the reason – in more ways than one – behind the lack of pain and infection vel kavadi bearers seem to experience.

However, the psychiatrist says: “To understand pain, one must realise that it is sensory and emotional.”

The sensory component of pain is the actual physical pain felt, while emotional pain is perceived pain, without any physical stimulus.

Both components of pain are affected in the vel kavadi bearer, as they enter a state of trance during the ceremony and procession on Thaipusam.

Well prepared

Kavadi bearers are expected to undergo intense preparation for weeks before the actual act.

During this preparatory period – and as an act of penance, devotees usually fast by adopting a restricted vegetarian diet, practise celibacy, and meditate on God.

“In the process, it is my opinion that one gets more focused on the objective of the act,” says Assoc Prof Dr Mohanraj.

“This required repetitive overloading of the mind with a single repeated thought (through meditation and fasting) allows an altered state of mind where the pain threshold is elevated.”

He shares that it has been scientifically proven that the state of mind does affect the body.

“Devotees go into a state of trance, which is an altered state of consciousness where they are susceptible to suggestions, a condition commonly known as hypnosis,” he says.

In this condition, they are open to input by family, friends and the priests, who would be encouraging and exhorting them on.

Psychologically speaking, the focus of the devotee on their God during the ceremony itself serves as a diversion from the thought of pain, which also results in a lowering of the distress or anxiety normally felt when you know a sharp object is about to be stuck into you.

“Not only are they not aware while they are being pierced, but they are also not aware of the cause of the pain, that is, the act of being pierced,” says Assoc Prof Dr Mohanraj.

The intense preparations leading up to the carrying of the kavadi results in an altered state of consciousness that helps decrease pain, infection and bleeding in the devotee.

He shares that this mental diversion is a common technique used in other painful situations like, for example, childbirth.

“During labour, the mother is asked to concentrate on her breathing. It really doesn’t have much connection with the pain, but it serves to divert her mind from it, resulting in lowered perception of pain,” he explains.

The body’s response

Physically speaking, the kavadi bearer’s altered state of mind results in a sense of euphoria, a decreased sense of pain and an elevated immune response.

The decreased sense of pain comes from the release of certain hormones, which have an analgesic, or pain-numbing, effect on the body.

Meanwhile, the elevated immune response, as well as the usage of the holy ash, which most likely contains antiseptic properties, probably helps to prevent infection of the wounds afterward.

The blood vessels also constrict, resulting in less bleeding when the devotee is pierced. Assoc Prof Dr Mohanraj said: “There is likely to be interstitial bleeding (between the tissue), which cannot be seen, but probably, no obvious bleeding.”

The technique of piercing also plays an important part in the lack of blood and pain experienced, he says.

“It’s not too deep, doesn’t cut into any major arteries or veins, and doesn’t hit any nerves, which is quite difficult as the face has a lot of important nerves running through it.” – by Tan Shiow Chin

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While many of us associate Thaipusam with crowds at temples and the awe-inspiring sight of kavadi bearers, how many of us actually understand the significance of the occasion?

A devotee bearing a kavadi – the symbol of humility and devotion

Thaipusam comes from an amalgam of the words “Thai” – referring to the Tamil month of Thai (January – February) – and Pusam – the brightest star during this period. Falling between 15 January and 15 February every year, Thaipusam is a celebration of Lord Murugan’s victory over Soorapadman’s tyranny.

Soorapadman believed himself invincible since he cannot be killed by anything other than a being that was a manifestation of Lord Shiva, one of the most important Hindu deities. Unluckily for him, Lord Murugan was one such being and he used his spear or vel, which was given to him by Lord Shiva’s consort, Parvati, to defeat Soorapadman.

So it is that during Thaipusam, the people thank Lord Murugan for granting their wishes and defeating the “daily demons” that plague their lives, be it illnesses, career blocks or infertility. Believers not only thank him, they also ask forgiveness for trangressions made, as well as pray for blessings.

The rituals of Thaipusam usually begin much earlier before the big day itself. Some devotees fast for more than a month before the occasion while others shave their heads as an act of gratitude, repentance or as a poignant plea to have prayers answered.

On the eve of Thaipusam, the image of Lord Murugan is transported from one temple to another, accompanied and waited on by devotees bearing offerings to the deity. Milk, a symbol of purity and virtue, as well as flowers and fruits are common Thaipusam offerings. Kavadis, literally “sacrifice at every step”, can be seen attached to devotees via hooks and thin spears that pierce their backs, cheeks and mouths.

This can be quite a sight for onlookers who no doubt wonder how these kavadi bearers withstand the pain, but devotees will tell you that their fervent faith in their Lord Murugan’s protection spares them from pain and prevents them from shedding blood. Bearing a kavadi is an act of devotion and humility.

Additionally, coconuts are smashed to signify the breaking of the ego and the emergence of a purer self.

In Batu Caves – one of the focal points of Thaipusam celebration in Malaysia – the procession accompanying the silver chariot bearing Lord Murugan’s idol, starts from Sri Mahamariamman, in the centre of Kuala Lumpur, to the temples of Batu Caves. The procession usually starts before midnight on the eve of Thaipusam and is a 15 kilometre journey that can easily take 8 hours.

Devotees wait for hours just to catch a glimpse of Lord Murugan on his chariot and extend their offerings while hundreds of thousands more join the procession to the temples. The number of people at Batu Caves during Thaipusam can range from 700,000 right up to 1.5 million. At Batu Caves, devotees faithfully carry their offerings and kavadi bearers staunchly shoulder their burdens up 272 steps to the temple.

Celebrations also take place in other parts of the country. Other principal places of celebration include the Waterfall Temple in Penang and Kallumalai Temple in Ipoh, Perak.

A procession accompanying the chariot bearing the Hindu deity as it makes its way to the temple during Thaipusam

Thaipusam, to any who are lucky to witness the festivities, is both a vivid celebration of colours and a fascinating display of faith. Yet, this is not the only Hindu festival that is worth bearing witness to. Other holy days, important to Hindu belief and culture, are just as interesting and engrossing.

Deepavali, literally meaning “rows of lamps”, for example, is a celebration of light triumphing over dark. On this day in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October – November), one legend has it that the Lord Krishna defeated the demon king Naraka. Hindus celebrate the occasion by anointing themselves in oil and partaking in a ritual bath early in the morning on Deepavali day. Then new clothes are worn and prayers are performed. Deepavali is quite possibly the best known Hindu festival in Malaysia. Other festivals besides Thaipusam and Deepavali are:

Thai-ponggal

Celebrated for four days, beginning from the first day of the Tamil month of Thai, Ponggal means the “boiling over” of rice and is a thanksgiving to the elements that have contributed to a good harvest – mainly the sun and the cattle. On this day, the cattle gets a well-deserved day of rest, a good wash and their sheds similarly get a thorough cleaning. They are also decorated with garlands and fed with ponggal – sweet rice. The Sun God is thanked as well with both prayers and sweet rice. But the gratitude isn’t only limited to the Sun God and the cattle; on the third day of celebration, visits are made to family and friends, employers customarily present gifts to their employees and single women present offerings to their home deities, praying for a worthy husband.

Sivarathiri

Taking place on the 13^th night of the Tamil month of Masi (February – March), this is a festival of fasting and prayers. It is also known as Shiva’s Night.

Panguni Utthiram

This festival falls on the same day as that of Lord Shiva’s union with Parvathi and the birth of Lord Murugan from sparks emanating from Lord Shiva’s eyes. Falling on the day of the full moon in the Tamil month of Panguni (March – April), the festival is celebrated much like Thaipusam in Murugan temples.

Tamil New Year

Here new year refers to the first day of the Tamil month of Chittirai (April – May). It is on this day that the sun enters the first sign of the Hindu zodiac – Aries. During the Tamil New Year (also known as the Hindu New Year), the house is thoroughly cleaned and decorated. This includes the prayer room which will be adorned with gold jewellery, rice, silk cloths and other favourable objects. Those who take part in the celebrations wear new clothes, eat a vegetarian meal and go to the temple to perform prayers.

Navaratthiri

Literally meaning “Nine Nights”, this festival is celebrated in the Tamil month of Puraddasi (September – October). The celebrations are in honour of the goddess Shakti, who is the “Great Divine Mother” in Hindu belief. On this day, a kolu – a dais with nine steps – is filled with the images of Hindu deities and saints while the “Great Divine Mother” is invited to take her place on a kumpam – a beautifully decorated, water-filled pot that is covered with husked coconut as well as mango leaves and placed on banana leaf that also has rice on it. Offerings in the form of nine types of grains are placed at the kumpan as well.

Map: Batu Caves

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Malaysia has a number of festivals and celebrations,  most of which are either religious or cultural in origin, and are swathed in traditions and rituals.

Malaysia. A country where one can experience a multitude of cultural celebrations and festivals, as well as, and most importantly, good food(!) all year round.

Almost every month of the year, tourists and locals alike immerse themselves in one celebration or another, thanks to the diverse cultural practices we have.

To help our foreign friends have a better overview of the festivities to look forward to when visiting Malaysia, and also for the benefit of locals, here is a list of the monthly cultural celebrations and festivities Malaysia has to offer.

(Note: Some celebrations may vary from year to year as they are based on lunar calendars.)

Thousands flock to Batu Caves to participate in the Thaipusam Festival.

January

Thaipusam
Celebrated by the Tamil community, the manifestation of Thaipusam is best witnessed at Batu Caves in Selangor, or in Penang. The jaw-dropping sight of devotees carrying ornately decorated frames, better known as kavadis, would stay with you long after you’ve experienced it; this unique festival is a sight to behold.

February

Chinese New Year
Celebrated worldwide by the Chinese to mark the first day of the New Year in the Chinese lunar calendar, the celebrations last for 15 days. Expect fireworks, lion dances, the prominence of the colour red, and open houses with scrumptious Chinese meals!

Chap Goh Mei, or the 15th night of Chinese New Year, symbolises the end of the festival. To celebrate the Chinese version of Valentine’s Day, young women inscribe messages or well-wishes on oranges and throw them into lakes or ponds.

April

Good Friday
Held in churches to mark the “saddest day” in the Christian calendar, it is observed in remembrance of Christs’ Passion, crucifixation and death. On the Sunday that follows Good Friday, Easter Sunday is celebrated to commemorate the resurrection of Christ.

Malaysia Water Festival
A country with natural settings of lakes, beaches, seas, Malaysia hosts this event annually with a variety of water-based sports. Activities such as kayaking, fishing, and cross-channel swimming promises a whole load of adrenaline-pumping time!

May

Wesak Day
Celebrated by Buddhists to pay homage to Buddha and to mark the three significant events in Buddha’s life (his birthday, enlightenment, and achievement of Nirvana) the festival begins with meditation and prayers. Donations are made to the poor and needy.

Harvest Festival
Known to Sabahans as Pesta Ka’amatan, it is a thanksgiving festival to celebrate the rice harvest. The festivities include traditional sports such as the buffalo race, the best tapai (rice wine) competition, and the “Unduk Ngadau” or Ka’amatan Queen Competition.

June

Hari Gawai
The Gawai Dayak is celebrated in Sarawak to mark the end of the paddy harvesting season. It also marks the beginning of the new planting season, and activities such as dancing, singing, and a considerable amount of drinking tuak (rice wine) take place in the longhouses.

Dragon Boat Festival
Known also as the Chang Festival or Duanwu Festival, it commemorates a patriot and poet in China named Qu Yuan. The best place to witness the celebrations is in Penang, where the annual Penang International Dragon Boat Festival takes place on a grand scale.

Rowers going all out during the annual dragon boat race in Penang.

July

Rainforest World Music Festival
Held in the grounds of the Sarawak Cultural Village, the annual three-day music festival is fast becoming the largest musical event in Malaysia. It celebrates the diversity of world music, while at the same time highlighting the use of traditional acoustic world instruments.

August

Independence Day
Commemorating the independence of the Federation of Malaya from the British in 1957, August 31 holds a special place in the hearts of all Malaysians. The biggest celebration of the event takes place annually at Merdeka Square, or more commonly known as Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Also known as Hari Raya Puasa, it marks the culmination of Ramadhan, during which Muslims the world over fast for a whole month. Traditional Malay food such as rendang, ketupat, and lemang is served. This is also a time to forgive and forget past quarrels, where family members ask for forgiveness from friends and family members.

Hungry Ghost Festival
Observed among the Chinese, the festival commemorates the opening of hell’s gates for the spirits from the lower realm to roam freely for a month. Things to note during the festival are the larger than life papier-mache figures and performances of Chinese opera and Ko-Tai (energetic singing and dancing with performers in glittering costumes).

September

Malaysia Day
September 16 commemorates the establishment of the Malaysian federation in 1963, with the joining of Malaya, North Borneo, Sarawak and Singapore to form Malaysia.

Mid-Autumn Festival
Fondly known as the Tanglung (Lantern) Festival or the Mooncake Festival, it is celebrated by the Chinese to mark the end of the harvesting season. Mooncakes are a must as it also commemorates Chang Er, the moon goddess.

Father and daughter inspecting the hanging Tanglungs (Lanterns).

October

Hari Raya Haji
To commemorate the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha, the occasion is marked most significantly by the conclusion of the annual Haj (pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca). Sacrificial-slaughtering, or korban, takes place in mosques, and the meat is distributed to the poor and needy.

November

Deepavali
Also commonly referred to as Diwali or Festival of Lights, the festival is significant to all Hindus as it symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Oil lamps are lit to ward off darkness and evil, and like every other major cultural festivals in Malaysia, open houses are held.

December

Christmas
A religious festival to mark the birth of Jesus Christ for Christians, Christmas in Malaysia is celebrated like everywhere else in the world. However, Christmas is also viewed as a universal celebration by many, one that that carries a secular rather than religious meaning. Even without the traditional “white Christmas”, the celebrations carry on with a kaleidoscope of lights, endless Christmas displays, and crazy shopping deals for all!

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Pesta Kaamatan

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Ancestor worship prayer has gone digital with a Buddhist temple in Bayan Lepas putting up two 50-inch LCD screens to display names of the deceased.

The LCD screens are set up on both sides of the prayer hall displaying ancestral tablets to replace traditional ones.

The traditional way of ancestor worship is where names are written on pieces of paper and pasted on a wall.

The slides on the screen change every three seconds to display different names and the digitalised ancestral tablets take the form of lotuses which float towards the palm of Lord Buddha to symbolise the deceased having a rebirth in the Pureland of Buddha.

Modern method: Than Hsiang Temple abbot Ven Wei Wu showing the digital ancestral tablets on a 50-inch LCD screen

Ven Wei Wu said the temple decided to launch the digital version of the worship prayer this year in a move to protect the environment.

“In the past, about 1,000 pieces of A4 size papers would go up in flames after the prayer sessions.

“We’re not against tradition but we have to do our part in protecting the environment.

“The temple also prohibits burning of joss sticks, joss papers and candles,” he said when met at the temple recently.

Ven Wei Wu also said the temple offered devotees LED rechargeable candles as it is not only environmental friendly but also safe.

The conventional way where names are written on papers and pasted on the wall during ancestor worship prayer.

He also said some traditions have certain values but most times, people blindly followed tradition without fully understanding its meaning.

The temple is believed to be the first in the country to launch the service and its first trial session on April 1 during the Qing Ming Festival puja was well-received by devotees.

Ven Wei Wu said although people were initially hesitant but most had adopted the idea.

He said the digital method doesn’t require a special software and the slides could be done with Microsoft PowerPoint.

Ancestor worship prayers are held twice a year at the temple, the first during the Qing Ming Festival and the other one during the seventh lunar month.

For details, call the temple at 04-6414822. – By WINNIE YEOH, Photos by GOH GAIK LEE

Environmental friendly: A temple staff charging the reusable LED candles.

Map: Than Siang Temple, Bayan Lepas, Penang

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The Pesta Kaamatan or Tadau Kaamatan is celebrated annually in Sabah to thank the spirit of the rice.

A group of Bobohizans performing the Magavau.

Most native Sabahans consider rice to be more than just a staple diet. There is a certain sacredness attached to it, for it is food given to them by Kinoingan, the Almighty Creator so that his people should never want for food.

He sacrificed His only daughter Huminodun and from her body parts, padi (rice) grew. This was Kinoingan’s ultimate act of benevolence and to this day, His people repay the deed by conducting various ceremonies to honour Bambaazon, the spirit of Huminodun as embodied in rice.

The most well-known of these is Pesta Kaamatan or Harvest Festival which begins on the first of May and celebrated throughout Sabah. Of major importance to this thanksgiving ceremony is the Magavau – a ritual to invite Bambaazon to the Pesta and is conducted only by the Bobohizan or high priestess. Festivities cannot proceed without the presence of Bambaazon and it is through Magavau that the Rice Spirit is invoked.

In the past, Magavau was conducted in the padi fields on the first full moon night after the harvest. A party of Bobohizan led by the foremost senior, would weave a slow procession through the fields chanting prayers to Bambaazon. A male warrior would walk ahead of this group waving a sword in the air, to ward off any evil that might try to disrupt the ritual. The food offered must be of the best quality. When the spirits come, only the Bobohizan will be able to feel their presence. The spirits will find, neatly laid out for them on banana leaves, the choicest chicken meat, eggs, betel leaves and pinang (areca nut), tobacco and kirai (“rollie”). The finest tapai or rice wine is offered to the spirits.

The tapai (rice wine) is as synonymous to Pesta Kaamatan as green beer is to St. Patrick's Day.

A second offering arranged in a winnowing tray is placed on a specially built bamboo platform. This is for the spirits to bring back to the spirit world to feed those creatures that would otherwise feed off the padi. Pesta Kaamatan around the state culminates in the state level celebrations on May 30 and 31 every year with Magavau being enacted indoors before the celebrations begin.

Content Partner : Sabah Tourism Board

For more information, e-mail: info@sabahtourism.com

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To commemorate its 40th anniversary in 2011, The Star published a coffee table book honouring its “hotshots” or photographers. (27 Photos)

The book, which provides a window back in time, reads as a pictorial chronicle of Malaysia as a growing nation.

In her introduction to the book, Managing Editor June H.L Wong sums it up rather succinctly, “…we have put together a selection we believe defines a nation through its growing years. The photographs in this book – including many that are published for the first time – capture some of the most significant, memorable, inspiring, humorous and tragic news makers and events in Malaysia (and the world), as shot by The Star’s team of hardworking photographers over four decades. This is our tribute to their vision, skills and talent. This is their story.”

Here’s 27 photos taken from the book.

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The late Datuk Mokhtar Dahari, then representing Selangor, holding the 1979 Malaysia Cup after his team beat bitter rival Singapore 2-0. Mokhtar scored 320 goals in his career, making him the all-time top scorer for both Selangor and Malaysia. - C.H. LOH/1979

Dr Mahathir in deep thought while looking out of the Putra World Trade Centre during a break at the 2003 Umno General Assembly, a year after he announced his desire to retire at the same occasion. - SIA HONG KIAU/2003

One of Malaysia's best loved and most recognisable animal icons, Wira the orang utan, with his trainer Daud Majid, at Zoo Negara. - S.S. KANESAN/1989

The North-South Expressway (NSE) has made travelling up and down Peninsular Malaysia fast, convenient and safer but at a price: motorists pay at toll plazas like this one at Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur. Opened in September 1994, it is Malaysia's longest expressway; the 772km-NSE stretches from Bukit Kayu Hitam in the north to Johor Baru in the south. - RICKY LAI/2007

Bomoh (shaman) Mona Fandey fascinated the nation throughout her trial for the gruesome murder of Batu Talam assemblyman Datuk Mazlan Idris. Mona (real name Maznah Ismail) always had a smile for the cameras, even after she was convicted. She was sentenced to death in 1995, together with her husband, Mohd Affandi Abdul Rahman and their assistant, Juraimi Hussin. - MOHD SAHAR MISNI/1997

Malaysia's foremost environmentalist Gurmit Singh was an advocate for sustainable development long before the term became fashionable. In the early years, he would resort to antics like donning a mask to get his message across, as he did on World Environmental Day 1979. - C.H. LOH/1979

The Kuala Lumpur Stormwater Management And Road Tunnel (SMART), a project by MMC Corp Bhd-Gamuda Bhd Joint Venture. SMART was hailed as a masterpiece with a dual purpose: it can channel away stormwater to prevent flooding in certain parts of Kuala Lumpur, and when it is not being used for that, vehicular traffic can run through it, shortening commute time. Completed and operational by May 2007, this is the longest stormwater tunnel in South-East Asia. - CHUA KOK HWA/2005

An arresting portrait of an old performer with the Teochew Chinese Opera troupe in Penang, who captivates the audience with his vibrant make-up and costume. - CHRIS LIM/2005

The "Singing Lawyer", Datuk Sudirman Haji Arshad (1954-1992) advocated a united Malaysia in his songs. As a performer, he was infectiously lively, cheeky and entertaining. - ZUBIR YAHYA/1984

Melanau youths indulging in a spot of fun by swinging on a giant tibou swing constructed from lashed merbau wood during the annual Kaul festival, celebrated by the tribe in Sarawak. - RAPAEE KAWI/2010

In the more relaxed and liberal times of the 1970s, X-rated movies were regular offerings in Malaysian cinemas. - GARY LEONG

The Star was given one of the three coveted slots for Malaysian press photographers to cover the Beijing Olympics which yielded a gold mine of great images like this shot of the spectacular opening ceremony. - KAMARUL ARIFFIN/2008

The devastating earthquake that hit densely populated Yogyakarta may have destroyed this family's home, but their faith isn't shaken, as they perform their zohor prayers amidst the ruins. - AZHAR MAHFOF/2006

Accomplished in ballet, modern and Indian classical dances, Ramli Ibrahim (right) has performed internationally for over three decades. As the artistic director of the Sutra Dance Theatre, Ramli has choreographed exquisite works and nurtured many promising dance talents from Malaysia, and is credited for establishing Odissi as a widely appreciated dance form. - M. AZHAR ARIF/2009

A Libyan rebel mans his post at dusk at the city of Brega as he awaits orders to march to the city of Sirte, a stronghold of President Muammar Gaddafi. - KAMARUL ARIFFIN/2011

A massive rockslide on Nov 26, 2003, sends 20,000 tonnes of boulders crashing onto a stretch of the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), near the Bukit Lanjan interchange in Selangor. The highway was impassable for two weeks, disrupting the daily commute for over one million vehicles. - LOW BOON TAT/2003

Padi farmer Sian Cheugi, 38, named his dog Dam but the canine companion could do little to hold back the floodwaters from his master's fields at Kampung Kubang Chenok in Jitra, Kedah, after three days of relentless rain. - G.C. TAN/2011

On Jan 10, 1982, a Cessna 206 piloted by the late Tun Ghazali Shafie crashed in the jungle of Janda Baik, Pahang. Ghazali (who was nicknamed King Ghaz for the tremendous influence he wielded as Home Minister) survices unscathed. His co-pilot, Vergis Chacko, and Ghazali's aide de camp, ASP Charon Daam, died in the crash. The photo above of Ghazali's wife Puan Sri Khatijah Abdul Majid (right) consoling Jessie Teaw (Charon's widow) at his funeral won photographer Ng Ah Bak the Malaysian Press Institute Press Photographer of the Year Award 1983.

The much revered PAS spiritual leader, Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat, sharing a light moment with Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad during a briefing on state-wide floods at the Kelantan secretariat building in 1999. - RAJA SHAMSUL BAHREN/1999

Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (right) and Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak raising their hands to celebrate their victory in a somewhat subdued atmosphere during the 2008 general election that saw the ruling Barisan Nasional losing its two-thirds majority in Parliament for the first time since 1969. - AZHAR MAHFOF/2008

Karpal Singh (far right, standing), then state assemblyman for Bukit Gelugor, in one of his famous verbal sparring sessions with Penang Chief Minister, the late Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu (standing, left). - NG AH BAK/1980

Tunku Abdul Rahman taking a closer look at The Star after the launch of the new printing press in 1985 in Penang. On his right is Star Publications managing director, the late Gabriel Lee. - NG AH BAK/1985

In the early years, the newspaper focused on local issues and activities such as belacan-making on Pulau Aman, an islet southeast of Penang island, and home to an idyllic Malay fishing village. - NG AH BAK/1981

The laptop proves to be an indispensable tool for photographers and reporters alike, especially when they have to work out of press rooms, like this one at the 24th SEA Games in Korat, Thailand. - CHIN CHENG YEANG/2007

"Believe in the unbelievable, dare to dream, and never take no for an answer" is trailblazing entrepreneur Tan Sri Tony Fernandes' motto that has enabled "Everyone to fly" after launching budget airline AirAsia in 2001. AirAsia has since flown over 100 million passengers across 20 nations, and inspired various similar low cost carriers in the region. - BRIAN MOH/2005

A crowd of curious Malaysians welcoming Queen Elizabeth II at Foch Avenue (now Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock), Kuala Lumpur, during her first visit to Malaysia in 1972.

The King of Pop, the late Michael Jackson, signing autographs for children of Rumah Ozanam at the Concorde Hotel during his visit to Kuala Lumpur for a one-night only concert in October 1996. - BONNIE YAP/1996

 

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A time for family reunions, the lion dance, firecrackers, mahjong, mandarin oranges and giving/receiving ang pow, the Lunar New Year – or Chinese New Year (CNY), as it is more commonly known in Malaysia – highlights some of the most fascinating aspects of Chinese tradition and rituals.

Its origin can be traced back thousands of years, to the legend which tells of a fearsome mythological creature known as Nian that is said to have once terrorised China, devouring people on the eve of CNY. To ward off the beast, red-paper couplets were pasted on doors, firecrackers were set off throughout the night, and huge fires were lit.

The Kek Lok Si temple in Penang during Chinese New Year.

Today, the prevalence of the colour red, and firecrackers, form part of the CNY celebrations throughout the world, as a part of custom and tradition.

The festival, which once also marked the beginning of spring in China, begins on the first day of the lunar calendar year, the first day of the new moon, and ends on the 15th day, known as Chap Goh Meh, the last day of the full moon.

However, celebrations are normally confined to the first few days and the last day. In Malaysia, the first two days are gazetted as public holidays.

Preparing for celebrations

Preparations tend to begin a month prior to the New Year, when people start buying new clothes, decorations and foodstuff. Houses are cleaned from top to bottom, and decorated with red lanterns; banners; plastic or paper firecrackers (the real item is prohibited); panels inscribed with calligraphic characters bearing themes of happiness, wealth and longevity; and greeting cards received from well-wishers.

The eve of CNY is probably the high point of the celebration as it is on this day that family members , no matter how far they are, return home for the reunion dinner, to rekindle family ties and enjoy the sumptuously prepared meals. It has become increasingly common for the reunion dinner to take place not at homes, but at restaurants that have set menus catered specially for the occasion.

A traditional family reunion dinner.

Dinner is usually made up of seafood and dumplings; delicacies include waxed duck, prawns, braised dried oysters, scallops and “prosperity vegetables”.

After the reunion feast, entire families will try to stay up all night in adherence to shou sui, a practice which is believed to bring one’s parents longevity. To while away the hours, it is common for many to gamble; the sound of mahjong chips clattering against each other throughout the night is not uncommon.

At the stroke of midnight, the New Year is ushered in. Firecrackers and fireworks are prohibited, so the requisite din to herald the New Year falls upon human voices and song, and modern “improvisations” such as the recorded sounds of exploding firecrackers.

Kong Hee Fatt Choy!

With daylight, homes again become a buzz of activity. Ceremonial candles are lit, incense burned, new clothes (red is the custom) are put on, and greetings of “Kong Hee Fatt Choy” or “nian nian you yu” (which means “may every year be filled with extras”) are uttered.

As is commonplace among Malaysians during both religious and cultural festivities, Chinese families invite their relatives and friends over to their homes during CNY. Guests arrive bearing gifts of mandarin oranges or kam, which symbolises gold or wealth.

Yee sang.

It is also customary for married couples to give children and unmarried adults money inserted in red packets known as ang pow, as a gesture to mean that the recipient will enjoy a fruitful and healthy/wealthy life.

Beliefs and tradition

The celebration of CNY is not all freewheeling fun though, as there are taboos and beliefs, some of which are spiritual in nature, that need to be observed.

For example, though the feasting generally goes on for the whole 15-day period, a break, of sorts, is taken on the third day. Businesses remain closed, and visiting is discouraged on that day, as it is believed that, otherwise, misfortune may befall the family.

Also, no one is allowed to sweep the floor on the first day of the New Year as it is considered unlucky; that one would accidently sweep away one’s good luck and fortune if they do so.

As a contrast, what is believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil is the lion which, according to legend, was the only animal that managed to wound the Nian. This gave rise to the lion dance, as the villagers of the story tried to mimic the lion in their attempt to frighten the beast away.

Here in Malaysia, troupes of lion dancers travel in trucks during the 15-day period to perform at individual homes and businesses, even hotels and shopping complexes. It is one of the most spectacular sights during this period, where performers regularly shimmy up poles to pick up ang pows, while moving to the beat of the drums.

Different celebrations

On the seventh day of CNY, which is considered as the birthday of all human beings, the Cantonese community partakes in a dish called yee sang, a simple mixture of thin slices of raw fish, shredded vegetables, herbs and sauces.

All the ingredients for the dish are served separately on the same plate, and would then be tossed and mixed, carried with chopsticks high in the air by all at the table, while saying out loud the word loh hei, which means liveliness, prosperity and longevity. This practice is said to herald prosperity for the coming year.

Lion Dance

The eighth day is a time for prayer. The Hokkien community performs a ritual where offerings are made to Tian Gong, the God of Heaven. This often extends into the ninth day.

The 15th and last day, Chap Goh Meh, is observed in several ways. In Penang, the Hokkien community commemorates this day with a parade (Chingay parade) where stilt walkers, lion and dragon dancers, and acrobats move along the busy streets of Georgetown, to the beat of gongs, drums and cymbals.

However, the highlight of Chap Goh Meh, which is often regarded as the Chinese Valentine’s day, has got to be the throwing of oranges into the river. It is believed that maidens would attract good husbands if they adhere to this practice.

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The  netherworld is not exclusive to the dead, at least not for Master Kek Eng Seng who claims to have ‘visited’ Hades under the guidance of his spiritual teacher.

“While I was there I even saw the Tai Su Yeah (King of Hades) who was as tall as Komtar. He was clad in tiger skin and had brown complexion with fangs and big round eyes.

“I saw him grabbing people to swallow them ‘alive’, only for them to come out from his behind, as punishment for being wicked,” said Master Kek, who also studied Taoism, fortune telling and feng shui.

Astral travel: Master Kek, clad in ceremonial attire, demonstrating the rites to be performed when sending human beings on a tour of the nertherworld.

He added that visiting the netherworld is not about going for sight-seeing or having a thrilling experience of a lifetime.

“It is to learn and understand one’s purpose in life based on what has been encountered down there.

“For me, I learned that my purpose is to devote myself to practising and teaching Tibetan Buddhism,” he said when met at the Tze Bei Guan Yin Centre on Church Street in Penang recently.

“People have asked me if it is for real and that’s understandable as I was also sceptical prior to my visit there when I was 21 years old. They must have faith if they are to experience it.

“Not everyone would see the same thing, nor will every attempt to visit the netherworld be successful,” said the 52-year-old father of two.

Master Kek said he would explain the do’s and don’ts before sending people down to hell, such as not to take any food or drink when they are there, adding that they must also return to the world of the living when he tells them.

“There’s one group of people whom I will never take to the netherworld, and they are the punters who will try to obtain lottery numbers from the dead.

“This is wrong as it would breed greediness, which is against the teaching of Buddha.

“People have also requested to visit heaven but it’s not proper to speak of it during the Phor Thor festival,” he said. – By FONG KEE SOON, Photo by LIM BENG TATT

Master Kek have selected 40 people, who had undergone certain rituals, out of 100 applicants to participate in the first ever outdoor netherworld tour on Aug 27, 2011 in conjunction with Phor Thor (Hungry Ghost Festival).

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When the ghosts see red!

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, and it is during this holy month that Muslims are enjoined by the Qur’an to fast.

It is compulsory or wajib, whereby Muslims are required to abstain from satisfying their most basic needs and urges, daily, between sunrise and sunset. This is to instil self-discipline, patience, spirituality, humility and submissiveness to God.

The Muslim fasting month of Ramadan begins after the sighting of the new moon, and lasts for 29 to 30 days.

Fasting is one of the five tenets of Islam, as is the paying of zakat (alms tax for the poor), which must be tithed by the end of Ramadan.

There are several categories of people who are exempted from fasting, namely the sick, the old and menstruating women.

The fasting month ends with the festival of Aidilfitri, popularly known as Hari Raya Puasa, or simply Hari Raya (Day of Celebration) in Malaysia.

Malaysia during Ramadan

Fasting is usually observed as a collective experience, particularly among the Malays. Children from as young as seven are trained to fast during Ramadan, beginning with fasting for half a day, so that by the time they reach the age of 12, they can perform their religious obligation much like how an adult would.

A typical day for a Malaysian Muslim, during Ramadan, would start before dawn, where families gather to have their pre-dawn meal (sahur) and prepare for the dawn prayer (subuh).

The Ramadhan Baazar in Taman Setiawangsa, Kuala Lumpur.

Thereafter, they go about their day as they normally would. It is not uncommon to see Muslims preparing food, although they could not partake in it. Many may also be involved in strenuous activities. In other words, fasting is not a time for resting.

Muslim adults who are found deliberately defying their religious obligation (such as eating in public during the day) may be apprehended by the authorities, and fined if found guilty.

Out of respect for the holy month, those who are exempted from fasting do not eat in public. Non-Muslims are also very respectful, taking extra care not to do anything that may encroach on Muslim sensitivities.

Muslim-owned restaurants and food stalls are usually closed during the day but see brisk business during and after the breaking of fast.

It is now common to see temporary bazaars that are set up throughout the country just for the holy month. These so-called Ramadan Bazaars, which open late in the afternoon, resemble the Malaysian pasar malam (night markets) and offer food items, as well as merchandise for the festive season.

As the day winds down, many would visit these bazaars to purchase food for the breaking of fast.

Many hotels and restaurants also offer Ramadan Specials, usually buffet offerings that are popular among corporate clients.

Unlike other congregational prayers, women and children can take part in the Terawikh prayer.

It is to be noted that both the Ramadan bazaars and hotel buffets are not restricted to Muslims alone; it is also popular among non-Muslims in Malaysia.

The azan (call to prayer) for Maghrib (evening prayer) signals the time for buka puasa (breaking fast), and having fasted the whole day, a Muslim may once again eat and resume normal activities from this point on, until dawn the next day.

After breaking fast, Muslims are encouraged to perform the evening prayer in congregation. In fact, it is common for mosques to organise buka puasa for their congregants.

Later in the night, immediately after Isyak (night prayer), Muslims perform the Terawikh, which means ‘pause’. It is so named because worshippers rest after each pair of salutations.

The Terawikh prayer in Malaysia is rather unique; unlike other congregational prayers, women and children can take part. It is also a unique and common practice in Malaysia for mosques to serve refreshments, usually donated by congregants, after the prayers.

Reference:

Prof Dr M. Kamal Hassan & Dr Ghazali bin Basri, “The Pillars of Islam: Zakat and fasting,” The Encyclopedia of Malaysia: Religions and Beliefs, Archipelago Press, 2005, pp. 26, 27

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The spirit of Ramadan [PIC]

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Muslims in Malaysia join their counterparts from across the world to observe the holy month of Ramadan, annually, with patience and humility. (31 Photos)

Observing one of the five pillars of Islam, Muslims must abstain during this holy month from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual intimacy, from sunrise to sunset. At dusk, Muslims break their fast, and perform prayers.

The fasting month begins after the sighting of the new moon, and lasts for 29 to 30 days, culminating in the celebration of Aidilfitri. Ramadan also marks the anniversary of the Quran being revealed to the Prophet Mohammed.

The following photos, captured by the Star’s pixmen, depict typical scenes during Ramadan.

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Sighting of the moon to determine the start of Ramadhan, conducted by the Wilayah Persekutuan Mufti Office at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.

A man performing the Terawikh prayers is silhouetted against the wall of the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur.

Muslims performing the Terawikh prayers at the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya. (Pic by Raja Faisal Hishan)

Muslims performing the Terawikh prayers at the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya. (Pic by Raja Faisal Hishan)

Crowds throng to Ramadhan bazaars - such as the one in Taman Setiawangsa, Kuala Lumpur - during the holy month.

An 'Ikan Bakar' (grilled fish) stall at the Ramadhan Bazaar in Stadium Darul Makmur, Kuantan, Pahang.

A group of kids sitting in a circle, reading the Holy Quran at the Abu Ubaidah Al-Jarrah Mosque in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, during the holy month of Ramadhan.

A man performing the Islamic ablution ritual Wudhu in preparation for formal prayers during Ramadhan. (Pic by Raja Faisal Hishan)

Dates are considered a Ramadhan staple, even here in Malaysia.

Muslim women performing the Terawikh prayers at the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya. (Pic by Raja Faisal Hishan)

Workers setting up tents for a Ramadhan bazaar close to the Bayan Baru Mosque in Penang.

A kenduri (festival) to welcome the holy month of Ramadhan in February 1957 at Balai Bomba, Jalan Shaw in Kuala Lumpur. (Pic submitted by Samsinar Salim for a Star Merdeka pullout)

Muhammad Akmal Hafiz, 6 (right), is seen sleeping as his brother Muhammad Kamil Arif, 12, and his sister Nur Izzatun Nadia, 9, partake in the pre-dawn meal (makan sahur) in their home in Ulu Kinta, Ipoh, as they prepare for the first fasting day of Ramadhan. (Pic by Saiful Bahri)

A family of fishermen from Kampung Geobilt, near Muara Tebas in Kuching, Sarawak breaking fast at sea.

A shop owner tends to his customers outside of his restaurant which doubles up as a clothing shop during the holy month of Ramadhan.

Muslims performing the Terawikh prayers at a surau in Precinct 8, Putrajaya. (Pic by Raja Faisal Hishan)

An LRT train passes under a banner welcoming the Ramadhan month at the KL Sentral station in Kuala Lumpur. (Pic by Azhar Mahfof)

Muslims preparing to offer evening prayers at the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya during Ramadhan (Pic by Raja Faisal Hishan)

Indonesian and Malaysian army personnel serving deep in the jungles of Borneo unite in common faith, breaking fast during Ramadhan.

A man sits in quiet contemplation before the breaking of fast, at the Islamic International University Mosque, Petaling Jaya.

The Ramadhan bazaar at Jalan Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur.

Muslims perform the Terawikh prayers on the first night of Ramadhan, at the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur. (Pic by Azman Ghani)

Sighting of the moon to determine the start of Ramadhan, conducted by the Mufti of Wilayah Persekutuan at the top of KL Tower. (Pic by Azman Ghani)

The Ramadhan bazaar along Jalan Masjid India in Kuala Lumpur is a hive of activity.

Muslim women performing the Terawikh prayers at the Putra Mosque, Putrajaya. (Pic by Raja Faisal Hishan)

A man recites the Al-Quran while waiting for the afternoon Zohor prayers at Masjid Wilayah in Kuala Lumpur on the 5th day of the Ramadhan month. (Pic by Raja Faisal Hishan)

Almost 15,000 Muslim boys from primary schools all over Malacca prepare themselves for a mass circumcision ceremony during Ramadhan.

Children lighting up the pelita (oil lamp) to mark the Lailatul Qadar - the anniversary of the night that the Quran was revealed - believed to be within the last 10 days of Ramadhan.

The Ramadhan Bazaar in Taman Chempaka, Malacca.

Outside the Crystal Mosque in Kuala Terengganu.

Muslims performing the Terawikh prayers on the first night of Ramadhan at the Masjid Al Azim in Malacca on September 12, 2007. (Pic by A. Malek Yahaya)

 

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