As the Zhong Yuan Festival, also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, approaches this year, many devotees in Malaysia are reconsidering the traditional practice of burning joss paper and incense amid growing environmental concerns. While some continue the custom with reduced offerings, others have decided to forgo burning altogether.
Tan Hoe Chieow, president of the Federation of Taoist Associations Malaysia, emphasized that the essence of the festival lies in sincere devotion rather than the volume of offerings. He noted that Taoism promotes living in harmony with nature and encouraged devotees to limit the use of large incense sticks and excessive joss paper. "A larger incense stick doesn’t signify greater respect or make prayers more likely to be received," Tan said, urging smaller paper offerings and guidance from religious practitioners on appropriate amounts during ceremonies.
Similar sentiments were shared by Yong Pock Yau, chairman of the Kuala Lumpur Kwong Tong Cemetery board, who highlighted that environmental responsibility could coexist with religious traditions. He pointed to alternative practices such as sutra chanting and copying of the Heart Sutra, which serve to honor departed souls without the environmental impact of burning. Yong underscored that a single incense stick can suffice as a symbol of respect, with prayers and dedication of merits playing an equally important role.
Individual devotees are adopting varied approaches. Simon Yap, a Klang resident, said his family would maintain their annual Zhong Yuan prayers but reduce the quantity of joss paper burned, while still using incense and candles. The family also plans to prepare more food offerings for sharing among relatives and neighbors. “It’s better to be more environmentally aware,” Yap said, noting that some family members had experienced discomfort from poor air quality caused by open burning.
In contrast, Melaka resident Lucy, who wished to withhold her full name, has opted not to burn any offerings this year. Taking responsibility for the preparations, she informed her husband of the decision, citing the harmful effects of open burning. Instead, the family will focus on serving their ancestors’ favorite foods and fruits along with prayers. “It’s the thought that counts,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, prayer-item trader Jason Chu observed that demand for joss sticks, gold and silver paper, and other ritual items remains steady, although some customers have chosen to discontinue burning. He noted that larger paper offerings tend to be associated with community ceremonies, whereas households often purchase simpler packages. "Some will continue to burn it, while some will stop," Chu said.
As awareness about environmental issues grows, many participants in the Zhong Yuan Festival appear to be balancing respect for tradition with efforts to reduce the ecological impact of their observances. Religious leaders and practitioners alike advocate for maintaining the spiritual meaning of the festival through sincerity, whether through scaled-back rituals or alternative expressions of devotion.