Junior Police Call Joins 100-Year-Old Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance with National Security Theme
SingTao · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
The iconic Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance returned this Mid-Autumn Festival, continuing a 100-year tradition that was inscribed on the National Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2011 . The main fire dragon measured 67 metres and was adorned with 12,000 longevity incense sticks, requiring over 300 people to operate . This year marked a historic addition with the debut of the National Security Little Fire Dragon, danced by more than 20 Junior Police Call members who trained under master craftsman Cheung Kwok-ho, Vice Chairman of the Tai Hang Residents' Welfare Association . The 20-metre, 35-kilogramme dragon featured purple colouring representing the National Security Department, symbolising the drive to eliminate national security threats and protect Hong Kong's high-quality development .
Key Points
- The traditional fire dragon spans 67 metres with 12,000 incense sticks, while the new National Security Little Fire Dragon measures approximately 20 metres and weighs 35 kilogrammes
- Junior Police Call members began training on September 12, learning dragon-making techniques and dance skills from master Cheung Kwok-ho
- The little fire dragon is crafted from rattan, ropes and pearl grass, with purple colouring symbolising "purple qi from the east" to ward off national security threats
- Acting Head of the National Security Department Kwok Ka-chuen stated the programme promotes "cultural security" under the Overall National Security Concept while fostering patriotism
- Member Jiang Kaiyan noted the physically demanding nature of dragon dancing, while Fang Zhiqi emphasised that traditional celebrations thrive under social stability
Why It Matters
The integration of national security education into a traditional cultural event represents a novel approach to civic education, allowing young people to experience heritage firsthand while understanding their role in safeguarding the nation . This initiative ensures the fire dragon tradition not only survives another generation but carries contemporary significance by connecting youth to both cultural roots and national responsibilities .
The integration of national security education into a traditional cultural event represents a novel approach to civic education, allowing young people to experience heritage firsthand while understanding their role in safeguarding the nation . This initiative ensures the fire dragon tradition not only survives another generation but carries contemporary significance by connecting youth to both cultural roots and national responsibilities .