Did you know that a centuries-old maritime ritual called “Sending Off the King Boat” is still celebrated today, connecting communities across China and Malaysia? Known as Wangchuan in Chinese or Ong Chun in Hokkien, this vibrant festival is a testament to shared cultural heritage and the enduring ties between these nations.
Rooted in folk traditions, the ritual honors Wang Ye, guardian deities believed to patrol on behalf of heaven, dispelling plagues and protecting coastal communities from disasters. It began in the coastal provinces of Fujian and Guangdong in the Chinese mainland and later spread to the Taiwan region. Through migration and maritime trade, this custom reached Chinese communities along the Strait of Malacca and beyond.
In China, local temples organize the ritual during the third or tenth month of the traditional Chinese calendar. A wooden king boat is meticulously crafted and filled with offerings like incense, clothes, and paper effigies of gold and silver. The community participates in inviting the deity aboard, sanctifying the boat, parading it through the streets, and finally burning and releasing it into the sea. This symbolizes prayers for calm seas and harmonious weather.
In Malaysia, the tradition thrives among coastal Chinese Malaysian communities, especially in Penang, Melaka, Selangor, and Johor. Held every three to five years, the festival retains its Chinese spiritual essence while incorporating local elements. For instance, boats are crafted using tropical rainforest timber and often feature Southeast Asian design motifs.
Recognizing its deep cultural significance, China and Malaysia jointly nominated the ritual for inclusion on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In 2020, it was successfully inscribed, highlighting the shared heritage and mutual respect between the two nations.
As China and Malaysia celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2024, the Ong Chun ritual stands as a cultural bridge, fostering deeper understanding and exchange. This age-old tradition continues to unite people, reminding us of the power of shared history and the importance of preserving our intangible cultural treasures.
