Chingay’s shared cultural significance strengthens Singapore-Malaysia ties as it moves toward global recognition.
Singapore and Malaysia have announced plans to jointly nominate the Chingay parade for inclusion on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The parade, which is celebrated annually in Singapore during Chinese New Year, is a multicultural event with roots in Taoist religious festivals, and has evolved into a vibrant symbol of both countries’ shared heritage.
The nomination, which will be submitted in March 2025, marks the 60th anniversary of bilateral relations between Singapore and Malaysia. Chingay, originally a street procession introduced by Chinese migrants in the early 1800s, has since transformed into a large-scale event celebrating multiculturalism and diversity.
Chingay will be Singapore’s third nomination for the UNESCO list, following the successful inclusion of hawker culture in 2020 and the kebaya in 2023. If successful, the Chingay nomination is expected to foster further collaboration between arts communities in both countries and promote cultural pride, particularly among younger generations. The decision is anticipated by the end of 2026.
