In 2 days’ time, ethnic Chinese communities all over the world will wait in anticipation for the new lunar year, ushering in the year of the Wood Dragon which fosters curiosity, independence and a thirst for knowledge. The Wood Dragon is said to be more diplomatic and rather perceptive in business matters and can be very generous and this is exactly what Malaysia needs right now.
On a community level, the Lunar New Year brings together families, mends broken ties, seeks forgiveness, renews commitments and reawakens family and friendship bonds that may have been ‘dormant’ for a while. Rich or poor, old or young, city or kampung, like all Malaysian celebrations, the Lunar New Year is celebrated with remembering or dearly departed, of honouring and respecting elders, spreading happiness, joy, laughter and togetherness with plenty of ‘angpao’ to be given and received – it is literally a festival that paints the town red!
This year is particularly unique as more Malaysians from different walks of lives are joining in the celebrations too. A school in Sarawak, in spite of having no Chinese students, has decorated the school with lanterns and other New Year decorations. A small business run by a Malay woman, also in Sarawak has decorated her shop with red Chinese New Year ornaments. Indian parents are seen buying cheongsams and samfu’s for their children and this year – one of the Thaipusam celebrations had a Lion Dance troupe that joined in as well! Even churches are adorned in red to usher in this cultural celebration.
Inspired by the Wood Dragon with its diplomatic skills, may Malaysians find strength, hope and courage to be nation builders and architects to rebuild Malaysia. That we be guided with wisdom to reach out to others in true Malaysian style, regardless of skin colour, language, religion, race nor ethnicity to celebrate this Lunar New Year and for all the other celebrations that we are blessed with, over a good meal peppered with smiles, jubilation and merriment.
It is time for Malaysians to challenge those who attempt to be walls to divide and create distrust amongst Malaysians and instead to be bridges to foster national unity by proving that Malaysia belongs to all of us, builders and architects of Malaysia as we usher in the Year of the Dragon.
Wishing everyone a healthy, safe, prosperous and meaningful Chinese New Year!
Xin Nian Kuai Le!