A Dutch expatriate residing in Malaysia has fully embraced the traditional Nine Emperor Gods Festival, describing his involvement as a profound spiritual experience. Hendrik Christiaan Puper-Lai, 48, from Almelo, Netherlands, participated in the nine-day festival from its onset at the Tow Boh Keong Temple in Ipoh, engaging in key rituals such as the coal-walking ceremony and carrying a deity’s palanquin.
The annual festival honors the Nine Emperor Gods and Dou Mu, the Dipper Mother, with devotees observing strict practices including a vegetarian diet, abstinence from certain behaviors, and maintaining purity of thought. These acts form part of a spiritual cleansing and devotion that define the event.
Puper-Lai recounted his experience of carrying the heavy palanquin during a procession to the river to invite the deity. Initially, he found the palanquin’s weight burdensome, but upon returning to the temple felt it to be unexpectedly light. He described this shift as more than physical, stating that he felt a sense of peace and lightness, with his worries and stress alleviated. “It was like a totally zen moment and cleansing experience,” he said, expressing a renewed sense of energy.
His participation extended to the coal-walking ritual, a traditional act of faith and endurance during the festival. Puper-Lai said that during the walk he did not feel any pain or discomfort, simply maintaining focus and continuing forward. He expressed willingness to take part in the ceremony again in future editions of the festival.
Puper-Lai’s introduction to the festival came through his brother-in-law, Lai Soon Siew, a 44-year-old actor who guided him throughout the celebrations. Lai noted Puper-Lai’s determination to engage fully in the various festival activities and the steps required to prepare spiritually and physically.
Having a longstanding interest in Chinese traditions, Puper-Lai described feeling welcomed by the local devotees and appreciated the opportunity to immerse himself in the cultural and spiritual aspects of the festival far from his native Netherlands.