Over 600 years ago, at a fishing port in southern Fujian, China, a brightly decorated boat filled with essentials like firewood, rice, oil, and salt was set ablaze in a solemn ritual. Locals believed that such a grand ceremony would bless them with smooth voyages and abundant catches. As maritime trade expanded, the tradition of "Sending Off the King’s Boat" traveled with Fujian migrants to Southeast Asia, where it has since evolved into a vibrant marine cultural festival celebrated in many coastal communities.