The tallest float at this year's Chingay Parade, towering over the parade at a height of nine metres, NTU's Draconika made a spectacular entrance at this year's Chingay Parade, held on 30 and 31 January at City Hall. 

With enthralling light effects from the moving waves, and shrouds of mist from the dragon's tail, Draconika was an engineering feat blending art with technology. The dragons represent energy, boldness and grace. Backed by an energetic dance performance by some 100 students from NTU, the stunning float was a powerful expression of fantasy, form and creativity, and embodied the team spirit of the NTU community – ever youthful, strong, hopeful and confident.

The float was an instant hit with spectators, drawing loud applause and waves as it plied the parade route. It was no surprise then, when Draconika was voted the "Most Popular Float" at the 37th Chingay Parade, in an online voting competition organised by the People's Association.

"This award is precious to us all as it embodies the spirit of the university community, coming together to fly the NTU flag high," said Mr Anthony Teo, Secretary to the University and Chairman of the NTU Chingay 2009 Organising Committee. "Creating and launching this debut float was a wonderful milestone for NTU. This award is a fitting 'icing on the cake', topping off a year's effort beautifully."

Draconika represents the combined efforts of engineering talents from NTU's School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (MAE) and the School of Computer Engineering (SCE), based on a concept drawing by students and faculty members from NTU's School of Art, Design & Media (ADM).