In a deeply moving act of love that turned Christmas Eve tears into timeless hope, Indonesian fans gathered on a serene night in Jakarta to plant a rare, endangered sandalwood tree engraved with Yu Menglong’s name, symbolizing the quiet strength and resilience he inspired in millions. The heartfelt tribute, held at the picturesque Plataran L’Harmonie venue, transformed raw grief into a living legacy, with roots deepening his gentle spirit in the earth forever. As the actor’s global fandom continues to mourn his tragic passing on September 11, 2025, this poignant gesture highlights the profound impact Yu left on hearts worldwide. How many more beautiful ways will fans around the world keep his light alive?
Yu Menglong, affectionately known as Alan Yu, captivated audiences with roles in beloved dramas like Eternal Love, The Legend of White Snake, and Go Princess Go. His sudden death at age 37—officially ruled an accidental fall after drinking—sparked widespread sorrow and lingering questions, amplified by heavy censorship in China. Yet, beyond borders, his admirers have channeled grief into creative, enduring tributes. On December 24, 2025, a group of devoted Indonesian supporters organized this tree-planting ceremony, choosing sandalwood (Santalum album) for its cultural significance in Indonesia—prized for its aromatic fragrance and symbolic resilience, much like Yu’s calm, inspiring persona.
The event at Plataran L’Harmonie, a lush venue known for its harmony with nature, drew fans who gathered under the stars. They engraved Yu’s name on the trunk, planted the sapling with prayers, and shared stories of how his performances brought joy and comfort. Sandalwood, native to regions like Timor and threatened by overharvesting, represented eternal fragrance and strength—qualities fans associated with Yu’s gentle on-screen presence and off-screen kindness. Photos and videos circulated on international platforms, evoking waves of emotion as supporters described the act as “planting hope” amid ongoing pain.
This tribute fits into a broader pattern of global remembrance. Earlier in 2025, fans held a virtual Christmas Day concert with songs and messages, followed by memorials in Taiwan and diaspora communities. Petitions for transparency surpassed 700,000 signatures, while subtle nods from celebrities like Andy Lau and Hua Chenyu honored him quietly. In London, a memorial bench appeared; in Australia, street gatherings; even New York’s Times Square featured silent billboards.
The sandalwood planting stands out for its permanence—a growing tree mirroring Yu’s enduring influence. As it takes root, it symbolizes resilience against loss, much like fans’ defiance of silence. Indonesian admirers, many introduced to Yu through dubbed dramas, emphasized unity: “His kindness crossed oceans; now this tree will grow for him here.”
How will this inspire more? Ideas flourish: charity drives for conservation (echoing sandalwood’s endangered status), fan-funded scholarships for young artists, or annual plantings on his birthday (June 15). Global groups discuss “Yu Gardens”—spaces dedicated worldwide. In a year of unanswered questions—rumors persisting despite official rulings—this act shifts focus to celebration.
Yu Menglong’s spirit, warm and unyielding, lives in these gestures. From virtual concerts to living trees, fans ensure his light shines eternally. As the sandalwood grows, fragrant and strong, it reminds us: love defies grief, rooting deep and reaching high.
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