In an exciting announcement on November 5, Singapore and Malaysia revealed their plan to submit a joint nomination for the Chingay parade to be included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This colorful extravaganza is not only a source of pride for both nations but also a vibrant celebration of their shared cultural heritage.

The Chingay parade, which takes place in Singapore, Penang, and Johor Bahru, embodies the rich multicultural tapestry that characterizes both countries. The National Heritage Board (NHB) emphasized that this joint nomination marks a significant milestone, commemorating the 60th anniversary of bilateral relations between Singapore and Malaysia in 2025. It aims to foster cross-cultural exchanges and collaborations, enriching the cultural landscapes of both nations.

Public consultations conducted by the NHB between 2021 and 2022 revealed overwhelming support for Chingay as a top contender for UNESCO recognition among Singaporeans. Cited for its "multicultural nature and familiarity," Chingay stands out as a cherished event that resonates deeply with the local populace.

With Singapore's hawker culture already inscribed on the UNESCO list in 2020 and the kebaya—a traditional women's attire—currently under nomination until December 2023, the time seems ripe for Chingay to receive similar recognition. The formal nomination is set to be submitted in March 2025, with results expected by the end of 2026.

Established in 2008, UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list aims to promote awareness of cultural practices and encourage dialogue that embraces diversity. This initiative provides much-deserved recognition for the traditions and practices of communities around the world.

A Historical Perspective on Chingay

The word "Chingay" originates from the Hokkien dialect, meaning the art of costume and masquerade. The parade first took place in Singapore in 1973, initiated at the suggestion of the country’s founding Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew. He proposed this vibrant street celebration to compensate for a firecracker ban that was implemented a year prior, a traditional custom associated with the Chinese New Year festivities.

In Malaysia, the historical roots of the Chingay parade can be traced back to 1870, organized by the Johor Bahru Tiongshua Association at the historic Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple. This grand event occurs annually on the 21st day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, highlighting its enduring significance in Malaysian culture. Meanwhile, in Penang, the Penang Chingay Association organizes a multicultural performance in George Town, uniting local and international performers alike.

According to the NHB’s heritage resource portal, Roots.gov.sg, these elaborate festivals have historical ties to migrants from southern China who brought this vibrant tradition to Penang and later to Singapore in the early 1800s.

In contemporary times, Chingay has evolved into a mesmerizing spectacle known for its dazzling performers dressed in extravagant costumes that celebrate the diversity of ethnicities and cultures. The parade features impressive floats, intricate props, and vibrant performances that enchant audiences from all walks of life.

"Chingay Parade, as it is celebrated in Singapore, reflects our multicultural and diverse society. I encourage all Singaporeans to join in and support the Parade in the upcoming years, especially as 2025 also marks our 60th National Day," remarked Singapore's Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Edwin Tong.

Echoing these sentiments, NHB chief Ms. Chang Hwee Nee praised the longevity of Chingay as a "testament to its adaptability as a living heritage," emphasizing the dedication of its practitioners in passing down knowledge and skills through generations.

As both nations prepare for this historic nomination, the world watches with anticipation to see if Chingay’s rich legacy will soon be recognized on an international stage—celebrating not only the event itself but also the vibrant cultures it showcases!