MELAKA: Thousands of devotees, including two best friends and lawyers Andy Fong and Kent Tan, joined a 15km walk during the Chay Tien Foo Temple’s procession in Melaka. Fong and Tan, both members of the young committee of the temple, are promoting the event as part of faith-based tourism for the state. They were schoolmates and pursued a law degree at the same university before setting up a legal firm together. Fong believes that fate has brought them together to promote the temple, which has a history of over 80 years.
Both 30 years old, Fong and Tan serve as legal advisors to the Jalan Laksamana Cheng Ho temple, which is dedicated to the Monkey God – Sun Wukong. Fong states that the temple holds great potential to attract faith-based tourism due to its long-standing history. He further mentions that the temple committee, mostly composed of youths, possesses innovative ideas to attract tourists and enhance the overall tourism experience.
Additionally, Fong reveals that his 26-year-old brother, Alfred Fong, is also part of the temple committee and played a vital role in organizing the procession. The event, held on September 23, witnessed the participation of approximately 2,500 devotees walking along the city streets, passing by popular tourist landmarks in Bandar Hilir. The procession was celebrated with vibrant colors and great enthusiasm.
Kota Melaka MP Khoo Poay Tiong along with other state leaders joined the procession, demonstrating their support for the event. This aligns with Melaka tourism, heritage, art, and culture committee chairman Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman’s vision to transform major religious activities of all communities into faith-based tourism. Abdul Rahman aims to provide valuable and meaningful tourism experiences by showcasing the religious diversity in the state, including Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, Taoists, and Sikhs.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
