Joint Nomination for UNESCO
Joint nomination for the inscription of Chingay Parade onto the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Chingay: a street parade that showcases multiculturalism, traditions, and artistic displays of communities in both Malaysia and Singapore. Both countries have jointly nominated Chingay onto the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in March 2025 as an SG60 milestone and a joint effort with Malaysia to mark 60 years of bilateral ties. This would mark Singapore’s third nomination to the List.
In Singapore, Chingay is a vibrant and colourful street parade that has captivated Singaporeans for generations. It’s a testament to the nation’s rich cultural heritage and a symbol of unity, diversity, and creativity. Chingay now owns the reputation as one of Asia’s largest street performance and float parade, a colourful epitome of the country’s multi-cultural society.
Chingay is also practised in Malaysia, in the cities of Johor Bahru and Penang as important multicultural events. Held annually at the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple on the 21st day of the first month of the Lunar New Year since the 1870, it is organised by Johor Bahru Tionghua Association and features creative floats and traditional performances from both Chinese and non-Chinese groups. In Penang, it is organised as a multicultural and secular performance by Penang Chingay Association in the Georgetown historical area, involving both local and overseas performers and communities.
Why is Chingay important to Singapore?
Chingay embodies the multiculturalism of Singaporean communities, reflecting their diversity, traditions as well as visual and performing arts. It is a platform that unites people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of belonging and national pride. The parade’s themes often highlight Singapore’s achievements, aspirations, and cultural identity. Held on 4th February 1973, the first Chingay saw the People’s Association teaming up with the Singapore National Pugilistic Federation to put up a grand parade. The main elements in the inaugural parade included various aspects of Chinese culture such as dragon and lion dances, martial arts and street opera performed in local dialects.
Since then, it has evolved and grown to become a significant community-centred event in the nation’s socio-cultural calendar. Today, it is commemorated through an engaging parade that is renowned for its dazzling and characteristic floats, intricate props and cultural performances from diverse cultural and ethnic communities. These require specific skills and knowledge which are passed down from the senior to younger practitioners, and between cultural communities. In addition, the annual parade involves multiple communities of all ages and backgrounds, such as local practitioners and artists from a wide range of performing art forms, community groups and interest groups; community volunteers; as well as international participants which facilitate cross-cultural exchanges.
Why is the joint nomination important?
The UNESCO nomination for Chingay is a significant step in promoting this living heritage in Malaysia and Singapore.
A successful nomination would bring numerous benefits: Chingay showcases the shared cultural heritage of both countries while highlighting the distinctiveness of Chingay in each country. Its inclusion on the UNESCO Representative List will raise global awareness of this living heritage.
It promotes the transmission of Chingay as a living heritage: the UNESCO inscription could energise and raise interest among younger practitioners, ensuring that Chingay remains a vital part of Singapore’s and Malaysia’s cultural landscape for generations to come.
The nomination of Chingay would not only promote cultural diversity and understanding but also cultivate a deeper sense of ownership and pride among communities. It can inspire individuals and groups to actively participate in its celebration and transmission. This increased involvement will ensure that Chingay remains a living tradition, reflecting the dynamic and evolving spirit of the community.
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Look out for this space as we share more ways where you can show your support over the next few months!
In support of the Joint Nomination of Chingay onto the UNESCO Representative List, the People’s Association will be introducing 30 postcards designs from November 2024 till December 2026. First 100 residents to collect all 30 postcard designs will be invited to Chingay Parade 2027!
Look out for these postcards!
Photo credit: National Archives of Singapore
