BY: ERIC HO

Every year Malaysians of all walks of life look forward to the attraction and merriment of the Chinese New Year festivities, and this year, which was the Year of the Dragon, did not disappoint as there was much gusto and enthusiasm in the celebrations.

The entry of the fiery dragon this year, according to soothsayers, will bring vitality and life to this country, and the predictions and forecasts all mostly point to a growth in the economy and progress and prosperity for everyone.

While all this augurs well for us, what was more welcoming to witness was that Malaysians of all races and religions visited open houses and participated in the celebrations which saw much unity being forged.

Malaysians, foreigners and visitors and tourists along with migrant workers mixed and mingled freely to receive oranges and the red packet “ang pows” which are all part and parcel of every Chinese New Year.

The long holidays also witnessed highways from the Klang Valley chock a block with traffic as people left for their hometowns to visit families, relatives and friends and also to have their once in a year Reunion Dinner.

Traditionally, the Chinese New Year celebrations end with Chap Goh Meh and till then there will be a continuous spread of good food and drinks in Chinese households to signify the importance of this occasion.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

** The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher