At 6:30 PM on Saturday, September 14, 2024, the Putian Building on Geylang 33 Lane was brightly lit, and the ground-floor hall was bustling with activity, a stark contrast to the usual quiet of a Saturday evening. That night, the Hinghwa community gathered to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival in a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.
The 2024 Mid-Autumn Festival Gala was co-organized by the Putian Association, Singapore Puxian (Hinghwa) Network, Licheng Club, and Singapore Hin Ann Thain Hiaw Keng. The event opened with a powerful drum performance by an all-female drumming troupe, whose energetic and forceful rhythms instantly livened up the night. Historically, war drums have been used to boost morale and passion, and tonight’s performance was no exception.
In his speech, Putian Association Treasurer and Vice President of the Singapore Puxian (Hinghwa} Network, Chen Jinyong, thanked the community for actively participating in the Mid-Autumn celebration, noting that the event was an opportunity to enjoy a buffet and strengthen bonds. Mooncakes, a traditional symbol of the festival, were an essential part of the night. Chen extended special thanks to Zhou Jiameng, Vice President of the Singapore Puxian (Hinghwa) Network and General Affairs Officer of the Putian Association, for sponsoring low-sugar mooncakes from his restaurant group, Tung Lok. These mooncakes not only tasted delicious but also symbolized unity and blessings, adding to the festive spirit.
Chen Jinyong shared that the new Putian Building had yet to hold its grand opening ceremony due to the pandemic, but he excitedly announced that a celebration would take place next year. The event will include the installation of plaques to honor the names of generous donors who contributed to the construction. He encouraged all Hinghwa community members to participate, whether through donations or effort, as it would be an opportunity to continue the legacy of the community. He also pledged SGD 31,380 for the construction of the new archway at the top floor's Singapore Hin Ann Thain Hiaw Keng, explaining that the number represents wishes for Singapore's prosperity, family happiness, and ongoing success for everyone.
Chen Jinyong also announced a major event for next year— Hin Ann Thain Hiaw Keng's centennial celebration of Mazu, which will take place over eight days from October 18 to 25, 2025. This large-scale celebration, originally planned for 2020 but postponed due to the pandemic, will be a grand occasion for families to come together and honor Mazu, the goddess of the sea, who represents peace and health. The event will attract guests from various sectors and will focus on preserving Mazu culture.
Hin Ann Thain Hiaw Keng Chairman, Lim Sze Eng, also highlighted the importance of next year’s celebration and encouraged the Hinghwa community to actively participate in preserving this cultural tradition. In line with the Mid-Autumn Festival, he quoted the famous verse by Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, "May we live long and share the beauty of the moon," emphasizing the festival's cultural significance. He expressed hope that under Mazu’s blessing, everyone will enjoy peace and harmony.
Lim Sze Eng also announced that the Putian Building is now hosting an exhibition of outstanding works from the "Children's Mazu Art Competition," featuring submissions from around the world, including China's Meizhou Island. The exhibition is open for viewing, and during the Mid-Autumn event, children also participated in a live painting activity, with every child receiving a small gift for their creativity.
The gathering featured a lively buffet, with attendees enjoying delicious food. The entertainment was equally impressive, especially the traditional Hinghwa musical performance, "Shi Yin Ba Yue." This popular ensemble left the audience in awe, just as they had during the March Food and Cultural Festival, where they performed more than 20 times over six days. Once again, their harmonious melodies, combined with singing, left a lasting impression.
Nearly 200 members of the Hinghwa community gathered, many bringing their families to share in this moment of reunion. The atmosphere was vibrant and festive, with everyone celebrating together.
The 2024 Mid-Autumn Festival Gala was co-hosted by the Singapore Puxian (Hinghwa) Network, Singapore Putian Clan Association, Licheng Club, and Singapore Hin Ann Thain Hiaw Keng.