KUANTAN, MALAYSIA: The Kuan Ti temple in Jalan Gambang here is gaining popularity among local and foreign tourists.

Every weekend, scores of tourists including Singaporeans on day trips drop by to pay homage at the temple.

Its location on a hilltop makes it a landmark overseeing the town.

Overview: The Kuan Ti temple in Kuantan. (Photos: The Star, Metro South & East)

Due to steep slopes, tourists have to climb 144 steps to reach the temple.

To reach the main shrine housing the Chinese deities Kuan Ti, Kwan Yin and Lao Xi, visitors have to take another four flights of stairs.

Decorative tiles and sculptures of dragons adorn the temple. Also, there are two man-made ponds with a variety of fish.

The wishing pond here is popular with children.

In remembrance: Sheng Long showing some old photos of his late father in action.

Caretaker Wong Sheng Loong said his father Wong Fang @ Wong Hoong founded the temple 40 years ago.

"It was in Kampung Jawa before my father acquired the land here.

"We shifted here 15 years ago, however, my father died last year from cancer," he said, adding that it was sad that his father did not live to see the temple's completion and official opening.

Sheng Loong, 30, said he and his younger brother Sheng Wei, 24, vowed to continue their father's legacy.

Admitting they had a lot to learn, Sheng Loong said he quit his job as an IT programmer in 1999 to help his father build the new temple.

"My father taught me much and it is up to me to improve and help others.

"We are doing this full time to ensure the family tradition and Chinese culture are preserved," he said.

Sheng Loong said the temple was the first to initiate a street procession in Kuantan with mediums in trance with sharp objects pierced through various parts of their bodies.

He said his father had earned the people?s respect and many residing outstation looked him up for assistance.

He said that most of the devotees came to seek blessings and enquire on health and family matters.

A fund-raising dinner will be held in July and the siblings hope it will raise enough money for the temple's upkeep and upgrading work.

The temple is open daily from 8am to 10pm. For more information, the Wong brothers can be contacted at 012-981 6676 or 012-983 6281.