CNY installation removed from Midtown Residences after Stomper's feedback, another slams 'eerie' decor at Jurong Library
In the lead-up to Chinese New Year, some festive decorations are causing confusion among the public.
In Hougang, "visually jarring" decorations outside The Midtown Residences have supposedly sparked chatter amongst residents and passers-by.
Stomper Andy, who shared photos of the decorations with Stomp, said: "The decor has been described as resembling elements more commonly associated with the Seventh Month (Hungry Ghost Festival), rather than festive CNY decorations."
He also noted that while some may find this to be a minor issue, festive decorations in shared spaces are "highly visible and culturally significant in Singapore".
Andy added: "The situation raises broader questions around community sensitivity, design choices, and accountability in property and facilities management."
The Stomper submitted his feedback to Ocean IFM Pte Ltd, the company managing the commercial part of the building.
In response to Stomp's queries, a representative from Ocean IFM clarified that the decorations in question were not part of the official CNY decor for the development.
"They were a separate initiative by certain parties on site," the representative added.
"While we understand that some welcomed the DIY effort, we also noted that the setup may not be well received by others. Following the feedback received, the installation has since been removed over the past weekend."
Although Andy was not an occupier nor resident of the development, the company nonetheless updated him closely on their findings and the outcome after he shared his feedback.
'Scary' lions await in the West
Meanwhile, a CNY display in Jurong featuring the Nian — a mythical lion-like Chinese beast — caught Stomper Om's eye for the wrong reasons.
Om took notice of the celebratory lion balloons while passing by Jurong Library on Feb 3 at around 6pm and felt they gave off "eerie vibrations".
"I wonder if I am too sensitive?" asked Om, who shared photos of two different lion balloons at the library.
"I feel that Singaporeans are losing the authentic feel and appreciation for Chinese art," he bemoaned.
"Chinese lions are meant to be auspicious, magnificent legendary animals that bring prosperity, good health and good omens. They mark the start of the Festival of Spring, during which the old winter ends and life forms.
"Plants and trees and flowers start to grow, blossom and therefore signify a New Year full of life and hope."
Om also worried that the "scary" lion balloons would potentially scare children.
Stomp understands that these are decorations that each library puts up every CNY. While they tend to be well-received, Om's feedback will be shared with the library manager.
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