Ethnic Chinese tow a giant replica sailing ship on a wheeled platform through a Malaysian city to Malacca. The purpose of the colorful parade is to drive out evil spirits.
Full of religious and cultural ceremonies, the “Wangkang”, or “royal ship” procession, passes along a nine-kilometer route. Makes 22 stops. Priests perform cleansing rituals to force evil spirits and demons to come aboard the boat.
During the procession, smaller boats are also carried.
The Wangkang festival was brought to Malacca by traders from China. It took place for the first time back in 1854.
But it doesn’t happen every year. It is organized only when the priests have insight from the temple.
Previous processions were held in 1919, 1933, 2001, 2012 and 2021.
Organizers say the festival aims to bring health, peace, prosperity and happiness to the state and the world.
