As the Year of the Dragon dawns upon us, Kwai Chai Hong, nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, prepares to dazzle visitors with its latest installation, "Rise of the Dragon 蟄龍覺醒."
This captivating display promises to be a dynamic celebration of Chinese New Year, paying homage to the ancient game of Mahjong and its cultural significance within the Malaysian community. Mahjong, with its roots tracing back to the Qing Dynasty, holds a special place in the hearts of many Chinese families. Much more than a mere game, Mahjong is akin to the significance of chess in Western culture. It embodies tradition, leisure, and the spirit of unity that binds communities together.
Zeen Chang, Managing Partner of Bai Chuan Management, reflects on the symbolism embedded within Mahjong, stating, "The intricate Mahjong game, requiring a various mix of tiles to form unique combinations, serves as a metaphor for our nation's strength in diversity and unity, something Kwai Chai Hong is always passionate about."
Collaborating with local artists Wong Jia Min and Lee Chaer Shean from plus + plus, Kwai Chai Hong brings to life a magnificent Mahjong game set amidst the bustling streets. The centerpiece, adorned with Mahjong panels and wire mesh, intricately crafts the silhouette of a dragon, symbolizing hope, prosperity, and renewal in the Year of the Dragon.
*(Standing L2R) Managing Partners of Bai Chuan Management, Zeen Chang, Terrence Liew, Wee Ho, and CocoLew, and (Seated L2R) plus + plus artist duo Wong Jia Min and Lee Chaer Shean at Kwai Chai Hong’s latest Chinese New Year installation, “Rise of the Dragon 蟄龍覺醒”.
Drawing inspiration from the dynamic movement of reshuffling Mahjong tiles, plus + plus creates an installation that mirrors the act of resetting the year—a fresh beginning symbolizing prosperity, union, harmony, and peace for the new year.
Wong explains, "The Mahjong panels and wire mesh collectively craft the silhouette of a Dragon, awakening from its long slumber as winter ends and soaring the skies, representing hope for a better and more prosperous beginning in the Year of the Dragon."
Echoing Wong's sentiments, Lee emphasizes that the installation goes beyond mere artistry—it's a tangible representation of hope, inviting individuals to embrace a new life chapter as they welcome the Year of the Dragon.
Chang further remarks, "Rise of the Dragon 蟄龍覺醒 is aptly named for installation to represent the beast which has hibernated long and has finally gathered enough strength to take on the new year with renewed vitality and power."
Indeed, just as each Mahjong game begins with the rhythmic mixing of tiles, symbolizing the ascension of the Dragon's spirit from its slumber, Kwai Chai Hong stands proud as a beacon of cultural preservation and revival.
Kwai Chai Hong welcomes visitors daily from 9 AM to 12 AM, offering a journey through time and tradition. The Rise of the Dragon 蟄龍覺醒 installation will be available for viewing from January 25, 2024, to March 3, 2024. So, gather your loved ones and immerse yourselves in the festivities of Chinese New Year at Kwai Chai Hong, where history comes to life.
* AFO Announcer - @ Agnes Wang
For the latest updates and information, be sure to follow Kwai Chai Hong on Facebook, Instagram, or visit their website at www.kwaichaihong.com. Let the spirit of the Dragon guide you into a year filled with prosperity, joy, and unity.
