SINGAPORE: Chinese New Year is swiftly approaching and is scheduled for 10 February 2024.
In preparation for the festivities, Chinatown has organized a Chinese New Year bazaar spanning from 19 January to 9 February, culminating on the eve of the festival.
This year marks the transition from the Year of the Rabbit to the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac, where each year is associated with a different animal.
The dragon holds immense cultural significance in Chinese tradition, embodying notions of power, good fortune, and strength.
Despite the profound cultural importance attached to dragons, the dragon statue erected in Chinatown this year has stirred disappointment among some Singaporeans.
The much-anticipated symbol seems to have fallen short of expectations, as evidenced by a photo shared on the Complaint Singapore Facebook page (18 Jan).
The accompanying caption succinctly expresses dissatisfaction: “The Chinatown Dragon is up. I don’t want to comment. You all see for yourselves.”
This unexpected twist in the portrayal of the dragon has sparked conversations within the community, adding an intriguing layer to the anticipation and celebration surrounding the auspicious Year of the Dragon.
Criticism arises over the disappointing design
The post, which garnered more than 1.8 thousand likes, 780 shares, and 649 comments, has sparked criticism among Singaporeans regarding the view from the dragon.
Expressing disappointment, one user pointed out that the dragon, especially its head, is poorly designed.
They questioned how such low standards were allowed, expressing concern about the display in Chinatown and foreseeing a less-than-ideal year for the government due to the unimpressive dragon head.
Recall the glorious celebrations of yesteryears
Another user lamented the trend of dull and simple decorations nowadays, contrasting it with the grand and exciting festive displays of older days.
They reminisced about the vibrant vibes that accompanied previous celebrations and the anticipation that came with capturing photos of the elaborate decorations.
Inquiring about the decline in the quality of the artwork, another user asked what happened to the years of proudly presented and beautiful Chinese artwork.
Another suggestion emerged, advocating for sticking to traditional designs if new concepts or designs cannot meet expectations.
Notably, amidst the criticisms, some users injected humour into the conversation.
One lightheartedly suggested that the dragon’s face resembles the “pen pineapple apple pen” guy.
While some comments express approval of the design, there are suggestions that the dragon’s head could be slightly larger to better convey its power.
Comparisons with past years and suggestions for improvement
The design of the dragon has prompted comparisons among netizens.
A user highlighted a stark contrast to the dragon from 12 years ago, describing it as more aesthetically pleasing and grand.
Tan Weiyang on Facebook
Further comparisons emerged, with one user contrasting the dragon from Singapore with that from Malaysia, questioning the allocation of funds for the respective designs.
Additionally, a suggestion was made for the organizers to engage the design group from Gardens by the Bay, praising their well-designed dragon.
Bak Kue on Facebook