Once a dilapidated alley, the popular tourist attraction is tucked between Petaling Street and Lorong Panggung. The art installation is a collaboration between Bai Chuan Management Sdn Bhd (BCM) – which manages the Kwai Chai Hong area – and Bangsar Heights Pavilion.
Explaining the significance of the installation, BCM managing partner Zeen Chang said fish, which symbolises surplus and prosperity, is a must-have dish during every Chinese New Year, especially at the traditional reunion dinner.
“This belief stems from the pronunciation of ‘fish’ in Mandarin, which is similar to how the word ‘abundance’ is pronounced. This cultural significance is reflected in the Chinese idiom ‘nian nian you yu’, which refers to surplus year after year.
“For generations, this idiom has encapsulated hope for one’s own abundance,” she continued. “However, this year, Kwai Chai Hong’s theme is centred on sharing this abundance with others and the joy of giving.”
Chang said a whole fish at the reunion dinner table represents an abundance of blessings, prosperity and fortune; when shared among loved ones, it reflects unity and hope for surplus in the year ahead.
“The size of the fish is also seen as a reflection of the blessings to come. The bigger, the better.”
Visitors stepping through the entrance of Kwai Chai Hong, marked by the “Blessing Bridge”, will be captivated by rows of vibrant red lanterns inscribed with good wishes and blessings of good fortune.
In the heart of the installation beyond, they will be greeted by a breathtaking display of 26 fish-shaped lanterns of various sizes, each handcrafted using traditional techniques with a modern twist.
Chang said these lanterns – handcrafted by local artisans – were made with intricate metal frames and illuminated with energy-efficient LED lights, representing harmony between heritage and innovation.
“These lantern-making skills are passed down through generations, which makes it part of China’s intangible cultural heritage recognised by Unesco,” Chang noted.
Visitors to Kwai Chai Hong were also invited to participate in a “Fish Lantern Parade” yesterday evening, before being treated to a Chinese drum performance.
Meanwhile, Bangsar Heights Pavilion CEO and executive director Aaron Yap said the art installation “embodies our hopes of sharing the joy of giving abundantly and spreading prosperity to everyone”.
By reimagining traditionally crafted fish lanterns with the addition of modern portable lights, “we are honouring the richness of Chinese culture while ensuring its relevance for future generations”, he added.
‘Bountiful Blessings’ is open to the public until Feb 16 from 9am to 12am. Admission is free.
Kwai Chai Hong
Lorong Panggung, City Centre,
50000 Kuala Lumpur