Tears and traditions: How Kelantan's crying contest joins other tear-filled cultural events

The recent crying contest at Ekspo Kelantan is just the latest in a line of international celebrations and festivals where strong emotions are on full display.

By PAUL NG

07 Feb 2025 09:04am

The recent crying contest at Ekspo Kelantan went viral for numerous reasons. Photo: Canva

MANY cultures have unique ways of expressing emotions, sometimes turning it into a public affair.

A crying contest held during this year's Ekspo Kelantan gained national attention after videos of participants weeping onstage went viral.

In the event, a total of 25 participants were judged based on the 'sincerity and intensity' of their tears, with the contest aiming to create a fun and supportive space for emotional release.

Organised by Muhamad Nur Amin Che Nor Asri, this event, now in its fourth year, was inspired by similar contests in Indonesia which were introduced as a cultural activity to foster community bonds and encourage emotional expression.

Last year, one crying contest in central Java — celebrating the opening of a new water park — drew over 200 contestants, with the winner taking home 500,000 rupiah (RM136.25).

Back in Kelantan, the winner of this year’s crying contest received RM500, but the true reward was the chance to express emotions openly in a culture that often emphasises restraint.

MORE CRYING CONTESTS IN FUTURE

Muhamad Nur Amin said that the crying contest was a roaring success, and that he will continue organising it in the future.

"It had previously been held at Rhu Rehlah Pantai Bisikan Bayu in Pasir Puteh, Kuala Krai, Tanah Merah, and Pantai Irama in Bachok," he said.

"I didn't expect the video to go viral after being uploaded on social media, where it received nearly one million views. Previously, I had uploaded videos of the competition, but they didn't go viral like this one," he added.

He added that the contest was organised to liven up the atmosphere of the expo, and to show appreciation for the fans who had been supporting the events organised by his team.

THE ART OF WEEPING

While uncommon, competitive crying contests do exist in other cultures. In Japan, the centuries-old Nakizumo Crying Baby Festival has become a fascinating annual event.

At this festival, sumo wrestlers carry the babies and shout at or shake them in order to get them to cry. The first baby to do so is considered the winner, as tears are believed to bring good luck and signify that the child will be blessed with good health.

This event is a joyful occasion for families and a chance for sumo wrestlers to show a more playful side of themselves.

Held at iconic locations like Tokyo’s Sensoji Temple, the festival attracts families and tourists alike, creating a joyful atmosphere filled with laughter and community spirit.

For parents, it's a heartfelt wish for their child's well-being, with the act of crying seen as a positive result. Curious about the other benefits of crying? Click here to learn more.

HOW OTHER CULTURES EXPRESS EMOTIONS

Other cultures around the world have celebrations whose main purpose is as a form of emotional catharsis for people. The Day of the Dead festival in Mexico is a vibrant celebration where families honour deceased loved ones. Altars adorned with photographs, flowers, and favourite foods become focal points for storytelling, laughter, and a few tears.

It is seen as a unique take on what most cultures consider to be an entirely sad occasion. While grief is present, the atmosphere is one of joy and celebration, reflecting the cyclical nature of life and death.

In Italy, people in some rural areas celebrate the new year by throwing their old or unwanted furniture and appliances out of their windows. While it may look like spring cleaning, it actually symbolises the act of throwing away negative emotions and past regrets.

For those taking the tradition seriously, it is a good way to start anew, and to face the new year with a clean house (or soul).

THE UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE OF TEARS

These cultural practices, though different, all share a common theme: they provide ways for people to connect with their emotions, as well as their communities.

From Ekspo Kelantan’s crying contest to Japan's Nakizumo Festival and the commemorations of Mexico's Day of the Dead, these cultural practices transcend geographical boundaries, showcasing the diverse ways we express our innermost feelings.

While the crying contests may seem unusual, it serves as a reminder that the language of emotion, though diverse in its expression, is truly universal.