Chinese Communities Turn Up In Numbers To Mark Year Of The Rat

Members of the Chinese community in Fiji turned up in numbers at the Suva Civic Centre yesterday to mark the start of the Chinese New Year – the Year of the Rat.

Some made the journey from the Western Division overnight so they could make it to the start of the morning programme where Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama was the chief guest.

Chinese Ambassador to Fiji, Qian Bo was also a guest of honour.

Three lions welcomed the guests on the stage and the formalities were followed by extravagant performances by artists from China.

These artists wooed the crowd with their dance, acrobatic feats and music.

Chinese Association of Fiji president Jenny Seeto said the Chinese New Year was a significant event for Chinese in Fiji and globally.

“The Year of the Rat is the first of the 12 animals that make up the Chinese Zodiac. It signifies new beginnings,” she said.

Artists from China performing a traditional dance as they marked the Chinese New Year - The Year of the Rat at the Suva Civic Centre on January 19, 2020. Photo: Shalveen Chand

Edited by Percy Kean

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