This year’s Chinese New Year assembly started off with a cheerful chorus of songs sung by the primary students. Assembled around the foyer, the primary children clapped and sang along, creating a joyous and happy atmosphere as Datin made her way towards the school. There, she was greeted by yet another surprise, this time by two lion dancers from the primary school, dancing along with the music as they offered her oranges, which are the symbol of wealth according to Chinese beliefs. Up in the hall however, the atmosphere was less joyous. Students and teachers alike wait in anticipation and suspense as they await the arrival of Datin. After a few tense minutes, Datin appeared, flanked by the same two lion dancers. Shortly after greeting and cheering, the crowd settled and the show began.

Up first to get the mood going, Cempaka’s very own choir ensemble, aptly named ‘Cempaka Voices’ performed the oriental version of the school song and a famous Chinese number. Next, the crowd gushed with enthusiasm as a little girl by the name of Abigail Chew, took the stage, garbed in an adorable ensemble of traditional Chinese clothes. She sang splendidly and the crowd cheered and supported her through the whole song. Even Datin was seen smiling and clapping along! Following suit, Grace Cheng and Jane Lim of Form 5 performed a traditional Chinese dance, named ‘The Blooming of the Willow’. Shortly after was a duet performed by Ng Joanne and Teh Gao Jye. The crowd was full of spirit by the time the song ended. Next was a dance by five primary students. This was indeed the highlight of the morning as these adorable students performed, twirling and manipulating their fans with such grace and poise. Lastly, the CPAC teachers contributed to the assembly by performing a delightful number by creating various drum beats using colourful musical instruments.

After the many splendid performances, everyone was in high spirits and in the right mood to truly celebrate the upcoming holidays. Soon after Datin delivered her speech, the principals, along with Datin and Dr Rizal, tossed the customary ‘Yee Sang’. The assembly was soon over and the students made their way back to their classes. Although it was a short assembly, many agreed that it was by far the best Chinese New Year assembly we’ve had in years.