JOHOR BAHRU, Mar 3 (Sin Chew Daily) — The Chingay festival celebrations this year were held behind closed doors in compliance with the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to curb the COVID-19 pandemic.

The traditional ceremonies which include a parade with four days of celebrations were simplified and held indoors at the Johor Ancient Temple.

The first day of celebration started on Tuesday with a total of five deities invited to participate in the parade.

Devotees and members of the public were advised to watch the celebrations through livestreaming sessions on various online platforms.

The temple carried out disinfection prior to performing cleansing rites for the deities. 

Present at the temple were Johor Ancient Temple committee members, Johor Baru Tiong Hua Association president Ho Sow Tong and other representatives from Chinese clan associations.

Ho said the temple was required to adhere to strict SOPs and was urging devotees to watch the livestreaming of the Chingay festival from home.

The celebrations have been significantly scaled down this year as per the state government's instructions.

The Chinese in Johor Bahru believe Chinese New Year celebrations will be officially over with the completion of the Chingay festival.