LANTERN FESTIVAL

Lately Malaysia had been attacked by the slogan of '1Malaysia' which come from the idea of the Malaysia current Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak. All Malaysian are racing to apply that slogan in their society. It obvious when the slogan is been used at the 1st phrase of every event or occasion name that is going to be held soon in extravaganza status. For example of the usage of '1Malaysia' slogan is 'Salam 1Malaysia' to say hi to anyone but for the title of event that can be seen recently is the name of Lantern Festival "1Malaysia Lantern Festival".

Lantern Festival also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival which falls on the 15th day of the eighth Chinese Lunar Calendar. This festival is a historical festival rather than a religious one. It marks the successful rebellion against the Mongol ruler during the past 14th century in China. Legend has indicated that the secret about a plot against the Mongolians was hidden inside the moon cake and the moon cake was distributed widely. Lanterns were used at night as signals from higher grounds and hilltop.

Today, the festival is celebrated with moon cakes and lantern hanging on the house. The lantern and the moon cakes have attracted many children and adults attention particularly from other races, Malay and Indian to be together to join the festivity. All of Chinese in every state in Malaysia make it as compulsory for them to celebrate this 'Lantern Festival or Mid - Autumn Festival' in every year with various activity has been putting down in the middle of the celebration. In certain area, lantern procession and competition, singing and dancing are held to the public.

Besides, for the older Chinese, they celebrate it formally with big event. However, the younger may celebrate it with their own way as they might celebrate it around their resident only.