Malaysia is a beautiful and democratic country that truly embraces its diverse multiracial and multicultural society. Its uniqueness lies in the harmonious coexistence of different races, religions and cultures that Malaysia is known all over the world for.

Of the many colourful celebrations in Malaysia, Chinese New Year is one of the most popular. It is celebrated by Malaysians of Chinese descent, who number approximately 6.6 million, about 23.7% of the total Malaysian population. Much time, energy and effort is spent in preparation for this important annual celebration. It is also a public holiday in Malaysia.

This festival originates from ancient China and has its own unique customs, traditions and delicacies, all of which serve to make it a beautiful expression of Chinese culture.

A Brief Overview

A modern example of the Lunar Calendar incorporated within the Gregorian Calendar

As the most important holiday for the Chinese, Chinese New Year is celebrated by 1/6^th of the world’s population, about 1.4 billion people. Also known as the Lunar New Year (according to the traditional Chinese lunar calendar) or Spring Festival, it is celebrated over 15 days, usually between January 21 and February 20 in the Gregorian calendar, coinciding with the start of spring. It begins on the second new moon after the Winter Solstice, and ends on the full moon, 15 days later. This is determined by following the Chinese lunar calendar, which uses a lunar cycle of roughly 29.5 days, which is why the date of the Chinese Lunar New Year festival varies each year.

Following a centuries-old tradition, Chinese New Year is the time to honour the heavenly Gods, one’s ancestors and family members, especially one’s elders. The importance of family and filial piety are highlighted with the all-important family reunion feast that takes place on New Year’s Eve, and is usually considered the most important occasion of the entire 15 days. This is when family members, no matter how far away they are, make the effort to return to their parents’ or elders’ homes to gather and renew familial bonds.

The History and Origins of Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year tradition dates back over 3,800 years, and its origins can be found in ancient China’s agrarian society. Celebrations that vaguely resemble the contemporary Chinese New Year festivities are believed to have existed during the time of Emperor Yao and Emperor Shun (c. 2,300 BCE). However, it was only during the Han Dynasty (202 BCE – 220 CE) that the dates for Chinese New Year celebrations were determined, when Emperor Wudi declared the use of the lunar calendar. From its ancient origins during the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600 BCE – c. 1046 BCE) to the present day, Chinese New Year has had many names, including Yuanchen, Yuanri, and Yuandan.

Emperor Wudi of the Han Dynasty, who commanded the use of the lunar calendar thus establishing the date of Chinese New Year.

Whilst the concept of “year” (or nian) in Chinese culture originated during the Shang Dynasty, it was only during the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC – 256 BCE) that the “year” became associated with worship and celebration. During the reign of Emperor Wudi of Han, the month of Zheng Yue (corresponding to January) was established as the start of the New Year cycle based on the Chinese lunar calendar. This has since been the practice till the present day. Since then, Chinese New Year became a nationwide celebration in China. The Imperial government even organised grand fairs and festivals, and people began gathering every year. It was during this time that new customs and traditions began.

One such tradition was the burning of bamboo, which has since evolved into the lighting of firecrackers today. Bamboo fireworks were prevalent during the Wei and Jin Dynasties (220 CE – 439 CE). The people of this time believed that the loud cracking sounds from the burning bamboo could ward off evil spirits. Later, during the Song Dynasty (960 – 1279 CE), with the invention of gunpowder and firecrackers, the tradition of making loud explosive noises to drive away evil spirits became a Chinese New Year custom.

The Bamboo Fireworks used in the olden days were made from gunpowder and bamboo.

Another tradition was the hanging of peach wood boards in one’s home or on the front door. These usually had two lines of auspicious poetry, written vertically, with mentions of new beginnings, prosperity or general auspiciousness. These are now known as Spring Festival Couplets, and are commonly seen vertically flanking the main entrance of homes, on either side of the front door, and horizontally above the doorframe. In modern times, they are usually made of red paper, with auspicious verses written in gold or black ink.

As Chinese New Year marks new beginnings, it is customary to be dressed in new clothes on the morning of the New Year. One of the customs that is still practised by many Chinese today is the serving of tea to the elders by kneeling in front of them and offering a cup of tea. In turn, the elder reciprocates by giving auspicious red packets hong bao to the younger generation with wishes of success, happiness and everything good.

During the Tang and Song Dynasties, the Chinese New Year celebration was finally given a standard name, Yuanri. From worshipping and praying for a good harvest, Chinese New Year then became a social event as the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE) began to flourish. Public holidays were gazetted to allow people some time off for reunions and time with their families. It was and still is customary for people to visit friends and relatives bearing gifts to share good fortune and blessings. Other interesting traditions include Dragon Dance, Lion Dance, and various performances such as She Huo, which are dedicated to the Gods of Earth and Fire. Subsequently, Chinese New Year evolved into a festival for people to share their triumphs and successes for the year.

From the Song Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1911 CE), the name of the festival was changed to Yuandan. However, in 1912, the Chinese government decided to adopt the Gregorian calendar and abolish the lunar calendar. This was not an easy change for the people as they were so accustomed to celebrating Chinese New Year, and so the government’s plan was unsuccessful.

A compromise was then struck. It was decided that both calendar systems would be adopted. The Gregorian calendar was to be used mainly in government offices, schools, and the business sector, while the lunar calendar was to be used to determine auspicious dates and the timing of traditional and religious festivals. Therefore, the date for the New Year according to the Gregorian calendar is January 1^st, while date for Chinese New Year falls on the first day of the lunar calendar.

In 1949, Chinese New Year became an official public holiday for China. Other parts of Asia such as Malaysia and Singapore have also gazetted this special celebration as a national holiday.

The Chinese New Year Legend

The Nian

According to legend, there once lived a mythical beast called the Nian. This ferocious beast had the body of a bull and the head of a lion. It lived in the mountains and would descend once a year on the first day of the New Year to prey on villagers and eat their crops, livestock, and even their children.

The villagers lived in fear and every year, they would board up their houses and go into hiding. One day, when the villagers were preparing to do so, an old man appeared and asked them,

“Why do you fear this creature so much? There are so many of you but there is only one Nian. Surely it wouldn’t be able to eat all of you?”

The villagers thought that the old man was insane and remained sceptical. So, they left him and went into hiding as planned, locking themselves inside their houses.

To their surprise, the old man actually remained out in the open to fight the Nian on his own. To prepare for the battle, he put up red paper and firecrackers all over the village. On that very night, when the Nian was about to plunge the village into chaos, the old man fought with loud firecrackers and the colour red. He chased the Nian out of the village and it retreated back to its cave for the day. This went on for several nights until the old man told the villagers, “I cannot protect you forever.”

The villagers then realised that the old man was actually a deity that had come to save them, but he had to eventually leave them and return to his other duties. They were terrified as they realised that once the old man left, the Nian would return and terrorise the village once more. However, the old man gave them precise instructions on what to do. He said,

“The beast is actually easily scared. He does not like the colour red. He fears loud noises and strange creatures. So, tonight, splash the colour red all over your village. Hang red signs on every door. Make loud noises with drums, music and firecrackers. And to protect your children, given them face masks and lanterns.”

As the legend goes, the villagers took the old man’s advice and the Nian never bothered them ever since.

The Nian was captured and subdued by a Taoist monk named Hongjun Laozu and became his mount.

Since then, each Chinese New Year, the Chinese would put up red decorations such as red lanterns, red scrolls and Spring Couplets above their doors and windows. The colour red also became the preferred colour to wear during the festive season. Following the legend, the Chinese would set off firecrackers during the 15 days of Chinese New Year to frighten the Nian.

Guo Nian is another name for Chinese New Year, which literally means to “pass over the Nian” or to “overcome the Nian”. This was exactly what happened. The Nian was later captured and subdued by a Taoist monk named Hongjun Laozu, and subsequently became his mount.

Everyone in the village rejoiced when they found out that the Nian had been captured and tamed. They held a huge celebration and the ritual of banishing the Nian was repeated year after year, and this tradition had been passed down from one generation to another, until it became an integral part of Chinese New Year and remains such even to this day.

Ushering in the New Year

The Days Before New Year’s Eve

People thoroughly clean their homes as everything should be clean and fresh to usher in the New Year.

In preparation for the Lunar New Year, homes are thoroughly cleaned to remove huiqi, which is literally translated as “inauspicious breaths”. This actually refers to inauspicious or unlucky energies that could hinder one’s happiness and success in the coming year.

In Malaysia, it is common practice that houses are given a fresh coat of paint, and new household items are purchased to signify a new beginning. It is also common for Chinese to renovate their houses to give it an updated look to usher in the New Year.

Spring cleaning is done to clear “old energies” and to welcome in “new good energies”, and also to appease the Gods who are believed to descend from Heaven to make “inspections” and bestow good fortune and rewards accordingly. Some still observe the custom of keeping brooms and dustpans out of sight on the first day of the New Year so that no one will accidentally sweep away any good luck.

Auspicious Spring Festival Couplets express wishes for a better life in the coming year.

In keeping with tradition, houses are decorated with red lanterns, Spring Couplets with auspicious verses, pussy willows, gold ingots and other decorations deemed to bring good fortune and prosperity. The Chinese also shop for new clothes, shoes and jewellery signifying a new beginning and to usher in the New Year with beautiful new things.

Those wanting a new hairdo will have their hair done before the New Year as it is considered bad luck to cut one’s hair during the New Year. This is because the Chinese word for “hair” (fa) is a homonym of the word for “prosperity”, hence it is believed to be inauspicious to “cut away” prosperity.

The Kitchen God is believed to return to Heaven just before Chinese New Year to report on the activities of every household over the past year.

All outstanding debts accumulated in the past year should be settled before New Year’s Eve, and this includes debts of gratitude. This is why it is common practice for people to send big hampers and gifts to business associates who have been instrumental in providing good livelihood, extended family members and close friends who have provided kinship, care, love and support.

In Buddhist and Taoist homes, it is an important tradition to clean home shrines, deity statues and items used for worship. Old decorations are removed a week before the New Year and replaced with new ones. Taoists also have a practice to “send off their Gods back to Heaven”.

Specifically, the Kitchen God, who is also known as the Stove God or Zao Jun, is given special attention. It is believed that the Kitchen God records everything that was said and done in the household during the year and then returns to Heaven to report to the Jade Emperor. On the day the Kitchen God is due to return to Heaven, sticky cakes or honey are smeared on the lips of a paper effigy of Zao Jun to ‘bribe’ him to present a favourable report to the Jade Emperor. The paper effigy is then burnt and replaced with a new one.

New Year’s Eve

The New Year’s Eve reunion dinner is considered the most important event for the Chinese.

The Chinese New Year Eve reunion dinner is considered the most important event for the Chinese. It is similar to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner in the U.S. Family members usually make an effort to return home to their parents’ or grandparents’ homes, no matter where they are. It is a time for feasting and bonding.

Before the all-important reunion dinner starts, Taoists make thanksgiving prayers to mark the blessings they enjoyed in the previous year. Ancestors as well as those who have passed on are also remembered and many households make offerings to their ancestors as a way to honour them. Some of the typical offerings to ancestors include fruits, cooked food, tea, cakes, drinks and flowers.

Taoists pray then send off the Kitchen God by burning his paper effigy
 (Image: Painting by He Youzhi 賀友直)

Reunion dinners are usually an extra special affair for many Malaysian Chinese families where a huge spread consisting of each family’s customary Chinese New Year recipes, handed down from the elders of the family, is served.

In many households, the lady of the house or matriarch will spend hours in the kitchen just preparing for the reunion dinner. However, these days, it is not uncommon to see families holding their reunion dinners at restaurants and other eateries.

The 15 Days Of Chinese New Year

First Day

People make as much noise as possible to chase away evil spirits

For many Malaysian Chinese families, Chinese New Year is ushered in by welcoming the Heaven and Earth deities. This usually starts at midnight, after the reunion dinner. Some families go to local temples to pray for prosperity and good luck for the coming year. It is considered very auspicious to light and offer the first incense for the year.

According to tradition, firecrackers are also set off to drive away evil spirits and bad luck. Then, the house doors are closed, only to be opened in the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year. This ritual is called “opening the door of fortune”.

Serving tea to the elders to show respect

On the first day of Chinese New Year, it is customary to pay respects and honour one’s elders. The younger generation usually kneel in front of their elders, offer tea and wish them good health, long life and all things auspicious.

In return, the elders give those who are unmarried a red packet called hong bao in Mandarin or ang pao in Hokkien, with some money inside symbolising blessings of prosperity, good luck, and good health. It is also customary for those who are married to similarly give hong bao to children and those unmarried. Bosses also give bonuses in these red envelopes to their employees.

Many Chinese Buddhists abstain from eating meat on the first day of the New Year as a practice to create the causes for longevity. Some families also invite Lion Dance performances to their home as a symbolic ritual to usher in the New Year, dispel bad energies and attract good fortune.

Second Day

Known as “beginning of the year”, the second day of Chinese New Year is when married daughters return to their parents’ homes, usually bearing gifts with auspicious symbolism such as Mandarin oranges, peanuts, sweet meats and other foodstuffs with auspicious sounding names in Chinese.

Cantonese business people will perform ‘Hoi Nin’ prayers to usher in good luck and prosperity for their business in the New Year. Some reopen their business premises on the second day of Chinese New Year, although it is more common for Chinese-owned businesses to be closed for at least a week. The second day of Chinese New Year is also regarded as the birthday of all dogs, and it is customary to give dogs special threats on that day.

Interesting Fact
In imperial China, beggars and those unemployed would go from door to door carrying a picture of the God of Wealth and loudly proclaim “Cai Shen Dao!” which means, “the God of Wealth has come!” In response, householders would shout “lucky money” and reward these messengers of good luck.

Third Day

Known as “red mouth” or Chigou which literally means “red dog”, the third day of Chinese New Year was named to honour “The God of Blazing Wrath”. Historically, rural villagers were weary of this day and would refrain from drawing water from wells, starting fires and cleaning their houses. Instead, they would burn incense and paper offerings to the Gods.

It is also considered an unlucky day to receive guests or go visiting because this is a day when quarrels and fights are believed to spark easily. In the past, this day was also known as the “Day of the Poor Devil” and it was believed that everyone should remain at home unless one was visiting temples to pray.

Fourth Day

On the fourth day, the Chinese welcome the Kitchen God as well as a host of other Gods and deities into their homes. Known as Yan Ri, this auspicious day is usually spent in prayer and worship. Customarily, this is also the last day that Chinese-owned shops and businesses are closed for the festivities. Some shops may open at the stroke of midnight to signify the restarting of business. Many Chinese business owners celebrate the start of a new business year over sumptuous banquets with their staff.

Fifth Day

The fifth day of the Lunar New Year is the God of Wealth’s birthday. In northern China, people usually eat dumplings (usually made in the shape of gold ingots) called jiaozi in the morning. It is also common for firecrackers to be lit to get Guan Yu, a local deity’s attention for a year of good fortune and prosperity, and to celebrate with large dinner banquets.

Seventh Day

In Malaysia and Singapore, the tossing of raw fish salad ‘yee sang’ is popular as this dish symbolises continued wealth and prosperity.

Traditionally known as renri, which means ‘common person’s birthday’ or everyone’s birthday, the seventh day of Chinese New Year is when everyone is considered to have grown a year older.

In Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia and Singapore, this is the day when yee sang or yusheng, a special delicacy of salad and raw fish is eaten. In Mandarin, the word for ‘fish’ is a homophone for ‘abundance’ and hence, yee sang with its traditional ingredients are symbolic of such. According to Malaysian Chinese custom, yee sang is exuberantly tossed with chopsticks with calls inviting abundance, prosperity and good luck for the New Year.

However, those who are Buddhists will avoid eating meat on this day as the seventh day commemorates the birth of Sakra, Lord of the Devas in Buddhist cosmology, who is the equivalent of the Jade Emperor.

These days, Buddhists too get to enjoy their yearly yee sang as there are vegetarian versions readily available in restaurants such as Kechara Oasis.

Sakra is mentioned in many Buddhist sutras, and is often shown consulting the Buddha on questions of morality. Together with Brahma, he is considered a Dharmapala, a protector of Buddhism and its teachings.

Eighth Day

The Jade Emperor’s birthday is a very important celebration for the Hokkiens, considered even more important than the first day of the Chinese New Year

The eighth day of Chinese New Year is the eve of the Jade Emperor’s birthday. Known as the Ruler of Heavens, this special day is celebrated with great feasts involving the whole family. As most people would have returned to work by this day, it is common for employers to host lunches and dinners for their staff.

The Hokkien ethnic group prepares offerings to give thanks to the Jade Emperor on the eighth day, which is the eve of the Jade Emperor’s birthday.

To commemorate the Jade Emperor’s birthday, many Malaysian Chinese especially the Hokkiens prepare tables of offerings, which include meat, seafood, fruits, dishes, local cakes, flowers and sweets. Also known as Pai Ti Kong, one of the essential items to offer is a pair of sugarcanes.

Legend has it that during the time when Japanese pirates invaded China, the Hokkiens were spared from being massacred by hiding in sugarcane plantations. This is said to have happened on the eighth and ninth days of Chinese New Year, coinciding with the Jade Emperor’s birthday.

Since then, sugarcanes are offered to the Jade Emperor as a way to remember and give thanks for the protection they received. Incidentally ‘sugarcane’ which is called kam chia in Hokkien sounds very much like kam sia which means ‘thank you’ in Hokkien. Thus, this is another reason it is a must-have offering for the Jade Emperor – as a symbol of gratitude.

Ninth Day

A Jade Emperor’s altar in a temple

The Jade Emperor’s birthday is a very important celebration especially for the Hokkiens and is considered even more important than the first day of Chinese New Year.

In Taiwan, on the morning of the Jade Emperor’s birthday (between 12 midnight and 7am), Taiwanese Hokkiens will set up a three-level altar table. On the first level is placed offerings of six types of vegetables, noodles, fruits, cakes, tang yuan (a type of Chinese dessert), vegetable bowls and raw betel, decorated with paper lanterns. The two lower levels have the five sacrifices and wines to honour the deities below the Jade Emperor.

Everyone in the household then kneels three times and bows nine times to pay respects to the Jade Emperor and wish him a long life.

Tenth, Eleventh and Twelfth Day

Over these three days, the festivities continue albeit in a more laid-back manner after nine continuous days of vigorous celebrations. Visiting friends continues, as do dinner feasts and much indulging in Chinese New Year delicacies.

Thirteenth Day

The 13th is a day dedicated to the General Guan Yu or Guan Di

The thirteenth day is when people start to eat more cleansing types of food. They may go on a pure vegetarian diet to help cleanse their digestive systems from the rich and greasy food they have been consuming over the past 12 days.

This is also a day dedicated to the General Guan Yu, the God of War. Born during the Han Dynasty, Guan Yu was considered the greatest general in Chinese history as he represents loyalty, strength, truth and justice.

A giant Guan Yu statue stands in Jingzhou, China

Most Chinese organisations and businesses will pray to Guan Yu on this special day. Guan Yu is said to have won over one hundred battles in his lifetime and hence became an inspiration to all, especially Chinese business people, who seek similar triumphs in their various ventures. Many also consider Guan Yu to be the God of Wealth or the God of Success.

A very ornate Guan Yu or Guan Di altar in the Yokohama Guandi temple, Japan

Fifteenth Day

On the 15th day of Chinese New Year it is customary for everyone to have a bowl of tang yuan, which symbolises growth.

Technically the last day of Chinese New Year, this day is also known as Chap Goh Meh in Malaysia and Singapore. Chap Goh Meh literally means ‘the fifteenth night’ in the Hokkien dialect.

During Chap Goh Meh, it is tradition to make and serve a special kind of dessert called ‘tang yuan’, made from glutinous rice shaped into colourful balls and eaten with sweet gingery syrup.

It is customary for everyone to have a bowl of tang yuan on this day, which symbolises growth.

In China, the Lantern Festival (not to be confused with the Mid Autumn Lantern Festival) is celebrated on this first full moon of the New Year. Lanterns are lit outside houses as a way to guide lost spirits back to their rightful places. On this day, families and friends also walk the streets with children carrying lanterns, usually shaped according to the child’s Chinese zodiac animal.

This is also a time to cultivate good relationships between people, families, nature and heavenly beings, as these beings are believed to be the ones responsible for bringing and returning the light each year.

The Lantern Festival is celebrated on the last day of Chinese New Year. Seen here is a Chinese woman celebrating at Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur.

Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, many single people celebrate this day in hopes of seeking a life partner. Traditionally, unmarried ladies would write down their wishes and contact details on Mandarin oranges and cast them into the sea or lake.

Unmarried men would then fish out these Mandarin oranges and taste them. It is believed that how the orange tastes indicates how well matched the man is to the woman who cast that orange. If the orange is sweet, it indicates a good match whereas a sour orange indicates otherwise.

A little girl selects her lantern for the celebration.

This orange-throwing custom used to be very popular back in the 1950s and 60s but its popularity has dwindled with the emergence of modern dating apps. These days, Chap Goh Meh is celebrated more as a social gathering with family and friends and orange-throwing is more a form of entertainment than a method to seek a partner.

Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur, beautifully decorated with 10,000 lanterns.

Chinese New Year Greetings

One of the most commonly used Chinese New Year greeting in Malaysia for family and friends is Gong Xi Fa Cai, loosely translated as ‘Congratulations and be prosperous’. The Cantonese equivalent is Kung Hei Fat Choi. The congratulatory part of the greeting stems from the legend of the Nian, to celebrate the villagers’ victory over the great beast.

Another popular greeting is Xin Nian Kuai Le or in Cantonese San Nin Fai Lok.

Other greetings that are used especially in many parts of China are Xin Nian Hao and Guo Nian Hao. Both greetings mean Happy New Year.

Red Packets

Red packets called Ang Pao (Hokkien) are monetary gifts given by elders and married couples to children and those who are unmarried.

During Chinese New Year, it is customary for married adults and elders to give red packets called Hong Bao (Mandarin), Ang Pao (Hokkien) or Lai Si (Cantonese) to children and those who are unmarried. The Ang Pao is a monetary gift in a small red envelope to symbolize wishing the recipient good fortune and prosperity.

The amount of money inside the packet is usually related to numbers believed to be auspicious by the Chinese, like the number 8.

A similar custom also exists in Vietnam (lì sì) as well as Japan, where a monetary gift called otoshidama is given to children by their relatives during the New Year festivities.

Chinese New Year Delicacies

Special dishes with auspicious meanings are usually prepared for the annual family reunion dinner.

While Chinese New Year is a time to reconnect with family and friends, celebrations inadvertently centre around meals, usually sumptuous banquets. From the most important New Year Eve reunion dinner to social gatherings, food is usually part of the scene.

In Malaysia, the concept of ‘open house’ is still practised till today. ‘Open houses’ are held for family and friends to come by to visit, reconnect and bond. Malaysian Chinese are known to include Malay and Indian food as part of their buffet to cater to their multiracial relatives and friends. It is not unusual to see the Malay Ketupat (rice wrapped in coconut leaves) and Rendang (a meat dish cooked in spices and herbs) alongside Indian curries at a Chinese New Year open house buffet table.

Prime Minister Mr Najib Razak with Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) leaders at MCA’s Chinese New Year open house in Kuala Lumpur on Jan 28, 2017. Photo: Malay Mail Online

Traditional dishes that are prepared during Chinese New Year contain ingredients that are specially selected for their symbolic meaning or that sound like auspicious words such as prosperity, good luck, abundance or wealth.

Some of the customary and popular Chinese New Year delicacies are:

Buddha’s Delight

This is an elaborate vegetarian dish served on the eve and first day of the New Year. The main ingredient is a black hair-like photosynthetic bacteria used as a vegetable, fondly known as fatt choy in Cantonese. Fatt choy is also used in many other special dishes as its name sounds like “prosperity”.

Buddha’s Delight

Chicken

Steamed chicken is usually served based on a tradition brought down from ancient times when many Chinese were poor farmers or immigrants, who only had the luxury of enjoying chicken during Chinese New Year.

Chicken was a luxury in ancient times

Fish

In Chinese, fish is pronounced as yú, which sounds like ‘surplus’ or ‘abundance’. Thus, the Chinese associate fish with having extra resources at the end of the year. Having fish is also believed to create the causes to have abundance in everything good in the coming year.

Fish is cooked in various ways such as by steaming, boiling and braising but the most famous Chinese fish dish is steamed fish in soy sauce. The fish is always served whole and as the last dish. Some of the fish is left on the plate to symbolise having surplus, continuous abundance and longevity.

The fish dish represents abundance

Nian Gao

Literally translated as “Year Cake”, Nian Gao is a sweet, sticky type of delicacy made from glutinous rice flour and brown sugar. The pudding batter is hard, and is steamed until it softens. In Malaysia, it is commonly served with desiccated coconut or deep fried between slices of yam and sweet potatoes.

Nian gao symbolises one’s growth in the coming year

The Chinese word nian or “to stick” is similar in sound to the word “year”, and the word gao or “cake” sounds similar to “high or tall.” Hence, eating nian gao symbolises the rise and growth of one’s self in the coming year.

The Chinese greet each other with nian nian gao sheng which means “growth and progress in every year”. This sticky sweet cake is also an offering to the Kitchen God as it is believed that it will stick the Kitchen God’s mouth and he will not be able to report any bad deeds to the Jade Emperor.

Fa Gao

Literally translated as “Prosperity Cake”, Fa Gao is made from wheat flour, water, sugar and leavened with either yeast or baking powder. Fa gao batter is steamed until it rises and splits open at the top. The word fa means “to raise or generate” or “be prosperous”.

Fa gao symbolises growth and prosperity.

Jau Gok

This is a popular Chinese New Year dumpling for Cantonese families and is also known as Gok zai. It has a deep fried outer skin made from flour with a sweet peanut filling. Its shape resembles olden Chinese gold and silver ingots, hence it symbolises wealth and prosperity.

Jau gok peanut puff dumplings symbolise wealth and prosperity

Jiaozi

Popular in Northern China, the minced meat filled Jiaozi also resembles gold and silver ingots. This dumpling is also available in a vegetarian version and can be boiled (shui jiao), steamed (zheng jiao) or pan-fried (jian jiao).

Jiaozi is believed to bring luck throughout the year

Yee Sang

Well-loved in Malaysia and Singapore, this special raw fish salad is only available during Chinese New Year. Customarily eaten on the seventh day, it typically contains shredded vegetables like white radish, turnip, cabbage and carrots as well as flour fritters, pomelo flesh and slivers of raw fish (such as salmon), and is tossed with dressing made from plum sauce, lime juice, sugar and other seasonings.

Yee Sang is usually eaten with chopsticks in a group and is collectively tossed into the air with sayings inviting good fortune, abundance, prosperity and growth. This popular dish originated from Malaysia and Singapore.

Mandarin Oranges

Mandarin oranges are extremely popular during Chinese New Year. The Chinese normally bring these oranges as gifts when they visit their relatives and friends, symbolic of bringing good fortune, prosperity and abundance.

Mandarin oranges symbolise wealth and good fortune

Longevity Noodles

Families will serve this special noodle, which is uncut, as it represents longevity.

Longevity noodles are uncut noodles representing long life.

Sweet Rice Balls

Called Tang yuan in Chinese, this dessert is made from glutinous rice flour and served with sweet syrup. Its name and round shape are symbolic of reunion and togetherness. Hence, they are a favourite during the New Year celebrations.

Dragon Dance and Lion Dance

Dragon Dancers move in the nature of the dragon spirit.

The Dragon and Lion Dances are must-haves during Chinese New Year, especially for business owners, as they symbolise chasing away bad luck and attracting good fortune.

The Dragon Dance consists of a troupe of dancers carrying an image of a Chinese dragon made of paper and fabric on poles. The dancers mimic the movements of the dragon spirit in a sinuous, undulating manner to the rhythm of loud, exuberant drums and cymbals. The dragon’s body can be as long as tens of meters.

The Lion Dance is performed by two dancers

Lion dancers perform in a Chinese lion costume with the lion’s head made of paper and wood, decorated in bright striking colours and designs. The fundamental movements of the Lion Dance are influenced by Chinese martial arts, performed to the sounds of vibrant drums and clashing cymbals, very much like the Dragon Dance music.

It is common to see this lively dance performed at business premises, offices and even homes throughout the 15 days of the New Year.

Places of Interest to Visit During Chinese New Year

One of the best ways to experience Chinese culture in Malaysia is to visit the Chinese temples, especially during Chinese New Year, when the premises are decorated with lanterns and are open for devotees to make offerings and prayers for a good year ahead.

Must Visit Temples Around Malaysia

Klang Valley

1. Kuan Yin Temple

The Kuan Yin Temple in Petaling Street, Chinatown

This Kuan Yin Temple was built in 1880 and is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, known as Guan Yin in Chinese. It is located across the road from Jalan Stadium in Chinatown. Prominently featuring Chinese and European baroque architecture, it is one of the most colourful temples in the city. The highlight of this temple is the three golden Chinese Buddha statues.

The figure in the main prayer hall is Buddha Shakyamuni (Gautama Buddha), the South Sea Guan Yin and Qianshou Guan Yin (Thousand-Armed Goddess of Mercy). The latter is a form of Guan Yin representing compassion as depicted by her thousand hands and thousand eyes that assist sincere devotees.

How to get there:
The Kuan Yin Temple faces the Bulatan Merdeka roundabout, across the street from the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall, near the Masjid Jamek LRT station.

Prayer times: 12.30pm – 1.45pm
The melodious chanting of ‘Namo Guanshiyin Bodhisattva’ from devotees and priests can be heard.

Opening Hours: 7.00am – 5.00pm
Address: Jalan Stadium and Jalan Maharajalela, Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur

Map of Kuan Yin Temple

2. Chan See Shu Yuen Temple

Chan See Shu Yuen Temple is one of the oldest surviving Buddhist temples in Malaysia.

Chan See Shu Yuen Temple is one of the largest and oldest Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Located at the southern end of Jalan Petaling (also known as Petaling Street), it is characterised by a typical open courtyard and symmetrical pavilions decorated with colourful paintings, woodcarvings and ceramic fixtures.

Built between 1897 and 1906, it features intricately carved kwang-tung roofs, gables and terracotta friezes with monumental Chinese history and mythological scenes. The interior of the main temple is decorated with pillars painted with scenes of warriors battling lions, dragons and other mythical creatures.

Behind a glass wall in the main temple are statues of the Chan See Shu Yuen Temple’s three main deities, including Chong Wah, an emperor of the Sung Dynasty. Above the three deities is a mural of a brilliant yellow sun.

Decorating the edges of Chan See Shu Yuen Temple are blue ceramic vases and small statues of the temple guardians, armed with poles crowned with lanterns. Flanking either side of the entrance gate are shrines dedicated to the male and female guardians.

How to get there:
Chan See Shu Yuen Temple is easily accessible as it is only a 15-minute walk from Pasar Seni LRT station.

Opening Hours: 8.00am – 6.00pm
Address: 172, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Map of Chan See Shu Yuen Temple

3. Kuan Ti Temple

The Taoist Kuan Ti Temple is 121 years old

Kuan Ti Temple is a 121-year-old Taoist temple located along Jalan Tun HS Lee. Easily recognisable by its bright orange façade, this temple is dedicated to Guandi, also called Guan Gong or Guan Yu, the Taoist God of War and Literature. Inside the temple there is a red-faced, long bearded statue of Guandi.

Guan Di’s sword is said to have special powers to bless and protect devotees.

In front of the Guan Di statue are guan dao and guan jie, which are his famous sword and spear. Devotees believe that Guan Di’s weapons have special powers and ‘touching’ or ‘lifting’ the 59kg copper guan dao three times will bless them.

Interesting fact: In China, Guan Di, the patron saint of martial arts, is extremely popular with the police and triads. Both pray to him for divine protection.

How to get there: 
It is a 5-minute walk from Petaling Street, located right across the street from Popular Bookstore, and just opposite Sri Mahamariamman Temple.

Opening Hours: 7.00am – 7.00pm (Opening hours may vary, best to check with the temple caretaker)
Address: Along Jalan Tun H. S. Lee

Map of Kuan Ti Temple

4. Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

Sin Sze Si Ya Temple is Kuala Lumpur’s oldest Chinese Temple built by Yap Ah Loy

The oldest Taoist temple in Kuala Lumpur, Sin Sze Si Ya Temple was built in 1864 by Kapitan Yap Ah Loy. Situated just three minutes’ walk from Petaling Street, it also functions as a cultural centre for the city’s Chinese community and is usually filled with devotees during Chinese New Year.

Dedicated to patron deities Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya, who played significant roles in Yap Ah Loy’s ascension to Kapitan status during the 19^th century, it is a tranquil place of worship in the middle of ever-bustling Chinatown.

The temple comprises of a main prayer hall and two smaller side halls, while the temple grounds host open-air pavilions with intricately carved panels where devotees can offer incense. The temple entrance features two sedan chairs that are over a century old, as well as a memorial plaque in honour of Chan Sow Lin, Yap Ah Shak, Yap Ah Loy, and Yap Kwan Seng.

Before major exams, many local Chinese students flock to Sin Sze Ya Temple to pray for good luck from Wenchang Dijun, who is the God of Education in Chinese mythology. Other unique Taoist practices include crawling under a table in front of the statues of Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya to help lessen mortal burdens as well as circling the temple’s main altar three times to bring good fortune.

How to get there: 
The best way to get to Sin Sze Ya Temple is to take the LRT train to Pasar Seni station or Masjid Jamek station. It is just a six-minute walk from either station.

Opening Hours: Daily 7.00am – 5.00pm
Address: 113A, Jalan Tun HS Lee, 14A Lebuh Pudu, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603-2078 9052

Map of Sin Sze Si Ya Temple

5. Thean Hou Temple

Thean Hou Temple is one of the most beautiful temples to visit during Chinese New Year

Decorated with 10,000 red lanterns, one of the best places to experience Chinese New Year is at Thean Hou Temple. On New Year’s Eve, Thean Hou Temple will usually hold a countdown to welcome the arrival of Cai Shen, the God of Prosperity or Wealth. Here, devotees can also pay homage and receive New Year blessings.

If you visit the temple on the first day of Chinese New Year, lucky red packets will be given to the public.

How to get there: 
There are free half-hourly shuttle buses from Hotel Midah in Kampung Attap and KL Sentral. Alternatively, you can take a taxi here, which is about 10 to 15 minutes from the city centre. From the National Palace (Istana Negara), it is a 20-minute walk and from Petaling Street, it is a 30-minute walk.

Opening Hours: Daily 9.00am – 6.00pm
Address: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel: +603-2274 7088

Map of Thean Hou Temple

Penang

1. Kek Lok Si

Penang’s Kek Lok Si temple is transformed into a fairyland of lights for Chinese New Year

Situated on top of a hill, Kek Lok Si Temple transforms into a fairyland of lights every Chinese New Year. The journey to the temple takes one through a maze of colourful souvenir shops at the foot before opening up to the majestic temple with truly breathtaking views.

At night, millions of colourful lamps transform the whole area into a stunning sea of lights. It is said to be the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia with Gautama Buddha as its main deity.

How to get there: 
The best way to get to this temple is to take a bus from Komtar mall. Buses #201, 203, 204, 206, 306 and 502 all go to Kek Lok Si. However, it would be wise to check with the bus driver before boarding. The bus ticket costs around RM2.00 one-way. Alternatively, take a taxi but be prepared to pay around RM25 to RM30 one-way.

Address: 1000-L, Tingkat Lembah Ria 1, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +6019-750 2139
Website: kekloksitemple.com

Map of Kek Lok Si

2. Khoo Kongsi

Khoo Kongsi temple is located in the UNESCO heritage area of George Town, Penang.

Known to be the grandest clan temple in the country, the Khoo Kongsi temple is located in the UNESCO heritage area of George Town, Penang. It is a great place to visit during Chinese New Year as this is Malaysia’s best-kept clan house turned museum.

This fascinating temple cum Chinese clan house features elaborate Oriental architecture with highly ornamented beams and carvings, hallmark of the finest Chinese craftsmanship.

It is located in Canon Square along Lebuh Aceh and Cannon Street. Its intricate carvings and statues are not to be missed.

How to get there: 
If coming from outside George Town, take any of the main buses or a taxi into the city centre.

Address: 18, Cannon Square, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +604-261 4609

Map of Khoo Kongsi temple

Melaka

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple is the oldest Chinese temple in Melaka and Malaysia.

If you are in Melaka over the Chinese New Year period, pay a visit to Cheng Hoon Teng, the oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia and also one of the oldest temples in Southeast Asia. Practising the Three Doctrinal Systems of Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism, it was founded in 1645 and is located near Jonker Walk. It is also known as Kwan Yin Teng Temple.

In 2003, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple received a UNESCO award for its exceptional state of preservation and the uniqueness of its architecture, with evidence of the passage of the oldest Chinese communities in Malacca and Malaysia.

On the eve of Chinese New Year, the first and second day, this temple is a hive of activity as many locals and visitors come to Cheng Hoon Teng to make offerings and say prayers.

How to get there: 
It is very easy to get to this temple as it is within walking distance of Jonker Walk and located along Temple Street.

Address: 25, Jalan Tokong, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +606-282 9343

Map of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Sabah

1. Puh Toh Tze Temple, Kota Kinabalu

Puh Toh Tze temple in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Located off Tuaran Road, about 15km from Kota Kinabalu city, this temple houses ten large deity statues and also the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin) standing tall at the main entrance of the temple. It is a beautiful place to celebrate Chinese New Year, especially on the first day.

How to get there: 
Take Bus No.1 or No.4 from the bus station in front of Shangri-La Kota Kinabalu for just RM1.50 per person. Buses run from 6.30am to 8.00pm daily. You can also take a taxi, which usually costs around RM15.00 one-way. Do remember to have the taxi pick you up after you are done.

Address: Lorong Kelabu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Tel: +6088-388 581

Map of Puh Toh Tze temple

2. Puu Jih Shih Temple, Sandakan

Puu Jih Shih temple faces the sea

Puu Jih Shih temple is located on the hilltop of Tanah Merah, about 5km away from Sandakan town. Inside the main temple hall are three beautiful large Buddha statues. Built in 1987, this is the most popular place of worship in Sandakan due to its breathtaking views of Sandakan Bay from the temple’s entrance that faces the sea.

Puu Jih Shih temple houses three large golden Amitabha Buddha statues.

How to get there: 
Visitors are recommended to take a taxi. The price is only around RM6 to RM8 one-way but do remember to make arrangements with the taxi driver to either wait for you or pick you up when you are done. Walking is possible, but it’s an uphill walk that will take around 30 minutes.

Address: 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Map of Puu Jih Shih temple

Sarawak

1. Hong San Si Temple, Kuching

Hong San Si Temple in Kuching is famous for its intricate stone carvings.

Built in 1848, Hong San Si Temple is located at the end of Carpenter Street in Kuching. It is famous for its traditional Oriental architecture which highlights the intricate and fine stone carvings from China. The unique ornate roof is decorated with many colourful mythical animals and godly figurines, making this one of the most beautiful temples in Borneo.

How to get there: 
Book a taxi to get to this temple.

Address: 5, Wayang St, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

Map of Hong San Si

2. Siew San Teng Temple (Tua Pek Kong Temple)

Siew San Teng Temple sits prominently by the Kuching Waterfront.

This is the most prominent temple along the Kuching Waterfront and is located at the start of the Kuching Main Bazaar. Also known as Tua Pek Kong Temple, the temple structure sits on a small hill overlooking the Kuching Waterfront and the Sarawak River.

Built in 1823, many visitors tourists flock to this temple especially during Chinese New Year, to pray and make their offerings.

How to get there: 
The Kuching Hilton and the Harbourview Hotel are landmarks next to the temple, making it convenient to locate and visit.

Address: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

Map of Siew San Teng Temple

Recommended Restaurants during Chinese New Year

As food is one of the highlights for the Chinese New Year festivities, here are some eateries serving the best of Chinese cuisine.

1. Kechara Oasis New Age Vegetarian Cuisine

Kechara Oasis New Age Vegetarian Restaurant is famous for its fine Chinese vegetarian cuisine that promotes compassion.

Kechara Oasis serves natural, delicious and healthy vegetarian cuisine sourced from the finest seasonal produce. Featuring a varied menu with Chinese, Tibetan, Nepali and Malaysian influences, its mantra is to serve food that suits a healthy lifestyle and encourages its diners to eat with compassion.

Kechara Oasis’ main dining room can comfortably accommodate up to 210 guests for lunch and dinner banquets at the Jaya One branch and up to 600 guests at the Viva Home branch. VIP rooms are available for a more intimate setting.

Branch: Viva Home, Cheras

Address: Lot 2.08 2nd Floor, West Wing, Viva Home Mall, 85, Jalan Loke Yew, Pudu, 55200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: 10.00am – 3pm, 6.00pm –10.00pm
Tel: +603-9284 1818

Branch: Jaya One, Petaling Jaya

Address: 63 & 67-P1, Block D, The Suites, Jaya One, No 72A, Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan
Opening Hours:  11.30am – 3pm, 6.00pm –10.00pm
Tel: +603 7968 1818
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kecharaoasis/

2. Spring Garden KLCC

Spring Garden

Spring Garden is a subsidiary of the Tai Thong Group located on the 4^th floor of KLCC (opposite Madam Kwan’s). Its tantalising pork-free Chinese cuisine is prepared by award-winning master chefs.

Address: Lot 413, 4th Floor, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603-21669881
Website: www.suriaklcc.com.my/dining/restaurants/spring-garden

3. Dragon-i

Dragon-i

One of the best restaurants that serves good Yee Sang, Dragon-i has many branches all over the Klang Valley.

Address: GF.43, Ground Floor, Sunway Pyramid, No. 3, Jln. PJS 11/15, Bandar Sunway, 46150 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Tel: +603-7492 3688
Website: www.dragon-i.com.my

4. Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung, ranked as one of the world’s Top 10 restaurants, is known to serve some of the best Yee Sang and dumplings.

Address: 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603-2148 8292
Website: www.dintaifung.com.my

 
References:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_New_Year
• https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/special-report/chinese-new-year
• http://www.chinesenewyears.info
• https://www.travelchinaguide.com/essential/holidays/new-year/history.htm
• https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/festivals/chinese-new-year-legends.htm
• http://www.wonderfulmalaysia.com/attractions/chinese-new-year-in-malaysia.htm
• http://www.malaysia-hotels.net/events/chinese-new-year.html
• https://publicholidays.com.my/chinese-new-year

 
For more interesting links:

• Hari Raya Aidilfitri
• Diwali Celebrations in India
• A Muhibbah Celebration: The Lantern Festival Charity Bazaar
• A Festival for the Most Haunted Village
• Gadhimai – A Holy Festival?
• Finding Bigfoot Festival
• Nine Emperor Gods Festival
• The Dragon Boat Festival: A Fusion of Traditional and Modern Culture
• Thaipusam – The Festival of Lord Murugan

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