TAMPARULI: A spectacular “Glow in the Dark” dragon dance lit up Dataran Pekan Tamparuli recently, drawing a captivated crowd as colourful luminous dragon effigies moved through the darkened town square during Chinese New Year celebrations.
Public lights around the area were temporarily switched off to heighten the effect, allowing the glowing dragon and lion effigies performed by young local dancers to take centre stage in a vivid display combining traditional art with modern visual technology.
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Tuaran Long Qi Shi Dragon and Lion Dance Association Assistant Chairman Nicky Wong, said their group is the only one in Sabah performing dragon dance under the luminous concept.
“The idea came about because we understand that people are busy working during the day.
“So we perform outdoors at night in a different way using glowing effigies so that the audience can clearly see the form of the dragon through the dance,” Nicky said.
Nicky added that the free performance, held annually during Chinese New Year, is open to all communities regardless of race or religion.
“Our goal is to share joy with everyone and give the public an opportunity to learn about the traditional dragon and lion dance,” Nicky said.
The event drew enthusiastic responses from attendees. Humaira Jasni, 37, who attended with her family, said she was thrilled by the performance, particularly knowing it featured local youth and children as performers.
“The dragon’s movements were mesmerising, and the children also got the chance to take photos with the lion effigies,” she said.
Another visitor, Verra Lyn Matusin, 27, described it as her family’s first experience watching light-based dragon and lion dance.
“All visitors got to enjoy a unique multi-sensory experience watching traditional Chinese dance while enjoying visuals that felt like a fantasy world. It was truly amazing,” she said.
The event, held from 7pm to 10pm, was officiated by Tuaran Member of Parliament cum Tamparuli Assemblyman Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau.
