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  (Photo courtesy: Guang Ming Daily)

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  (Photo courtesy: Guang Ming Daily)

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KOTA BHARU, KELANTAN: Although there is a hearsay saying that "tiger dance" carries the ominous meaning of "eating up", it is still introduced to Kelantan by the Wei Yang Sport Club.

A recent local Chinese movie filmed in Kelantan has introduced traditional tiger dance to its viewers through its funny and warm storyline.

Secretary cum adviser of Wei Yang Sport Club Wang Xiaoming told Guang Ming Daily that everyone holds different opinions about tiger dance. But the most important thing is, whether they can use the art well.

"There is no lion or dragon in China but they have lion and dragon dances because of their auspicious meanings. Both lion and tiger are savage beasts. However, Mañjuśrī Buddha rides on a blue lion while Taoism Buddhas also ride on tigers. We will have no pressure if we treat rumours positively," said Wei.

He also said that tiger is the "protector" of one of the Gods of health. It is a kind of auspicious beast in Taoism.

Wang Xiaoming said that many people know that Wei Yang Sport Club has tiger dance and they are interested in it.

They will have lion, dragon, and tiger dances performance at KB Mall on 11 Feb.

The dragon and lion dance team of Wei Yang Sport Club is scheduled to have 48 performances during Chinese New Year. However, they still have time to practice tiger dance.

Wang said that team members even practice until midnight in order to make their performance perfect.

The action of tiger dance is slower than lion dance. The focus would be on its mighty and steady steps. Team members were unable to get used to it at first. It has limited motions but consumes more physical strength.

"The main musical instruments are gong, drums, and cymbals. (Translated by YOU HSUEH LIN/ Sin Chew Daily)