Tokong Mek, A Lasting Symbol Of Community Harmony

By Adnan Mohamad

KOTA BHARU, Feb 14 (Bernama) -- The existence of a 147-year-old drum, bestowed by Sultan Muhammad II in 1879 at Tokong Mek, is not only among Kelantan’s tourism icons but also a symbol of community harmony, especially during Chinese New Year celebrations.

Pertubuhan Penganut Tokong Mek deputy chairman Tan Kien Seng said the drum placed at the temple clearly proves that the relationship between the Ruler and the people has long been established, regardless of religious and racial backgrounds.

“Tokong Mek is no longer merely a place of worship, but a historical witness to the relationship between the two main communities in Kelantan, and the drum has become a lasting symbol of friendship to this day.

“Based on historical records, the drum, measuring one metre in length and half a metre in width, also bears an inscription by Sultan Mohamed Ke-II (Tuan Senik bin Long Tan) dated 1879, which attracts visitors to see the uniqueness of the drum,” he said.

When met by Bernama at the Chinese temple located in Kampung Cina, Jalan Pantai Cahaya Bulan here recently, he said the drum, which is well-preserved in a glass casing, attracts many visitors from within and abroad who wish to see its uniqueness for themselves.

Tan said there had been many visitors from various communities, including Malays, Indians and Siamese, who view the drum and learn about its history, further establishing the temple as a tourism icon.

“Interestingly, the drum was a gift from the then Sultan of Kelantan as a token of appreciation to the Chinese community at that time, symbolising the close friendship between the Malay and Chinese communities in the state since way back,” he said. 

Given that such bonds have existed for centuries, he said it is unsurprising that the local community here, especially the Chinese and Malays, remain closely connected and continue to help one another.

“During every Chinese New Year celebration, many Malays also attend to witness the festivities, including firecracker displays and other activities,” he said, adding that the association had hung up 1,000 lanterns to decorate the 236-year-old temple for this year’s celebration. 

Meanwhile, local resident Ahmad Faisal Othman, 25, said Tokong Mek had co-existed with the Malay community in the village for a long time, with various interesting activities held during every Chinese New Year celebration.

Ahmad Faisal said he always looked forward to the lively Chinese New Year celebrations at Tokong Mek, where the area would be filled with people from various communities eager to experience the uniqueness of the festivities.

“I have visited the temple several times, especially to learn about the history of the drum bestowed by the Sultan of Kelantan,” he said.

K. Rajan, a visitor from the Indian community in Tumpat, said the uniqueness of Tokong Mek differs from other temples in Kelantan as it features interesting carvings that reflect scenes from the past. 

“I have visited many temples across the country, but this temple is particularly appealing, made even more vibrant with lantern decorations during Chinese New Year,” he added.

-- BERNAMA