As the Cheng Beng Festival is just around the corner, Chairman of Huazong (华总) Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Goh Tian Chuan (吴添泉) pointed out that with the spread of the COVID-19 disease, it is advised for the Chinese societies in Malaysia to pay attention to the activities and crowds during this festival and also to take necessary precautions.
Dr. Goh Tian Chuan has specifically listed out 5 measures recommended to be followed during this Cheng Beng Festival.
1. Avoid grave-sweeping activities during the weekends.
Plan your grave-sweeping activities outside of the peak period range to reduce crowds.
2. Avoid bringing along those with weaker immune systems (the elderly and young children) to grave-sweeping activities that are prone to the disease.
3. It is advised for those managements of the cemeteries to think of countermeasures for this matter and take effective safety precautions.
4. Simplify your prayers and rituals to short and brief ones.
5. Be mindful of the environment. Avoid excessive incineration.
Dr. Goh Tian Chuan stated that the Cheng Beng Festival has a long history of thousands of years and it is always a part of the Chinese tradition to connect with one's ancestry and perform their filial piety. This tradition is very important for those of Chinese descent. However, with the spreading of the coronavirus, it is advised to take necessary precautions besides performing filial piety.
Dr. Goh also advised the local cemetery management to shine a light on this matter and take necessary precautions.
"For example, at the cemetery compound and other related public areas like the ashes towers, public toilets, and the Tua Pek Gong Temple, the management can place hand soaps at the sinks or hand sanitizers for people to use after their prayers. At best, the management can also work together with health bureau assistance groups in measuring the body temperatures of the visitors as another precaution."
He also mentioned that for many of Chinese descent, the day and time for grave-sweeping activities are related to Feng Shui customs. According to Chinese folk tradition, the 10 days before and after the actual date for the Cheng Beng Festival are the best days for grave-sweeping, and the best time to do so is in the morning.
Besides that, Dr. Goh also stated that the Cheng Beng Festival is mostly coordinated with the weekends. So based on calculations, the 28th and 29th of March and the 4th and 5th of April will be peak dates for grave-sweeping for many people.
He also emphasized that prayers and rituals for the Cheng Beng Festival can be done in a family-style or individually. However, for those attending prayers at local sports gymnasiums are advised to avoid large gatherings.
In addition, Dr. Goh said that Huazong will support all preventive measures taken by the government and the Ministry of Health, including discouraging mass gatherings which promote close contact with people. Thus, he concluded that Huazong (华总) and SenHua Tang (森华堂) have agreed and decided to cancel this year's 37th National Chinese Cultural Festival and also this year's 7th International Dragon Boat Race organized by ShaHua Tang (沙华堂). Cultural and educational activities in other states have also been extended or canceled.
