The ancient ritual of Ong Chun, also known as the Sending Off the King Boat ritual or Wangchuan, weaves together the fabric of coastal communities. Rooted in folk traditions from the Chinese mainland’s coastal provinces of Fujian and Guangdong, this ceremony venerates guardian deities—known as Wang Ye or Ong Yah—believed to safeguard communities by dispelling plagues and warding off disasters.
As waves of migration and maritime trade carried traditions beyond their origins, the ritual reached southern Taiwan and further extended to Chinese communities along the Strait of Malacca and beyond, including celebrations in Malaysia. This enduring cultural legacy stands as a testament to the powerful exchange of heritage across borders.
Today, Ong Chun not only preserves ancient maritime memories but also inspires a diverse audience—from young global citizens and tech enthusiasts to cultural explorers—with its rich storytelling of unity and protection. It serves as a vibrant reminder of how shared traditions continue to shape and connect our modern world.
Reference(s):
Ong Chun: A shared maritime memory preserved by China and Malaysia
cgtn.com
