In conjunction with the year of the pig, Ven master Hsing Yun`s Chinese couplet `Always well-rounded and auspicious` for the year of the pig, is the theme for the floral lantern starting at 31 January for a period of 20 days till 19 Feb.

The temple offers blessings activities on the eve of Chinese New Year on 4 Feb including hitting of the gong for peace and Chinese New Year prayers.

The theme for lantern festival centres on the pig this year.

Chief abbess of the temple Ven Jue Cheng, who is also the chief abbess of Fo Guang Shan for Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia said the lantern festival this year is unique with three characteristics - it offers light, peace and hope.

Ven Jue Cheng said the theme ` always well-rounded and auspicious ` signifies smoothness for each visitor. With lights and musical performance, one can feel the joy and hope brought by spring.

Hong Huizhu from Taipei Economic and Cultural office in Malaysia who is spending Chinese New Year in Malaysia for the first time said Dong Zen Temple is now a famous tourist destination at state level.

Ven Zen Liang Fa who is vice chairman of Malaysia Buddhist Association reminds all to remember the teaching of three good deeds  -  speak good words, do good deeds, think good thoughts on the launch of the lantern festival which coincided with swearing-in a new king.