Light a lantern to help keep the tradition alive

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Local business owner Aaron Chen in Ipoh has reported a decline in younger generations’ interest in traditional lantern lighting during the Mid-Autumn Festival, with older family members and cultural groups stepping in to preserve the practice. This shift highlights the challenge of maintaining cultural traditions amid modern safety concerns and changing family dynamics, prompting increased reliance on organized community events and safer LED lanterns.

IPOH — As the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, traditional lantern lighting faces challenges in gaining traction among younger generations, according to local business owners and community members. Aaron Chen, who operates a shop selling prayer items and lanterns in Ipoh, expressed concerns about the preservation of this cultural practice.

Chen, in his 40s, highlighted a generational gap in the appreciation and continuation of lantern traditions during the festival, which is celebrated primarily among Chinese communities. He observed that while older generations, such as grandparents, continue to purchase lanterns for their grandchildren, younger parents often show little interest in passing down the custom. “It is still up to the grandparents or the older generations who are buying the lanterns for their grandchildren, while the younger adults hardly think about it,” he said, stressing the importance of active involvement by young parents to maintain the tradition.

The Mid-Autumn Festival, traditionally marked by the lighting of lanterns, symbolizes family unity, good fortune, and illuminates the way to prosperity. Folklore associated with the festival also attributes protective qualities to the lanterns, believed to ward off evil spirits and ensure safety in the year ahead.

Chen commended various Chinese cultural associations and non-governmental organizations for organizing lantern-carrying activities, which help engage children and promote the cultural heritage. Several such groups have purchased lanterns in bulk from his shop to support their events. “Many are still holding activities for children to carry lanterns. We hope that they continue for many years to come,” he noted.

Regarding current consumer preferences, Chen indicated that LED lanterns have become more popular among families, replacing traditional candle-lit versions. Concerns over safety, particularly the risk of fire in urban settings like high-rise apartments, contribute to the shift. “Many do not want their children to play with fire, afraid that they could get hurt or would burn something down,” he explained. Conversely, the traditional candle-lit lanterns remain favored in rural areas, particularly in new villages.

Echoing these sentiments, a 76-year-old housewife, who identified herself only as Lim, said her grandchildren show only fleeting interest in lanterns but enjoy other festival activities such as playing with “pop pop” firecrackers. Aware of the cultural gap, she makes an effort to remind her children of the importance of their customs to ensure that future generations remember and appreciate their heritage.

The concerns raised by Chen and community members underscore a broader challenge faced by many traditional celebrations worldwide: balancing cultural preservation with modern lifestyles and safety considerations. As the Mid-Autumn Festival continues to evolve, efforts by cultural organizations and families alike will be crucial in keeping its customs alive.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.