Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is an important traditional holiday celebrated in Malaysia. It is considered the most significant celebration for families of Chinese descent in Malaysia. The holiday, which can last for up to 15 days, is marked by vibrant parades, dragon dances, lion dances, fireworks, family gatherings, and feasts. Its date varies each year, depending on the lunar calendar, but typically falls between January 21 and February 20.
Preparations for the Chinese New Year begin weeks in advance in Malaysia. Homes are cleaned thoroughly to sweep away any ill-fortune and make way for incoming good luck, people purchase new clothes and gifts, and decorations are put up - most prominently, red lanterns and couplets with lucky phrases written on them. Fruits such as tangerines and oranges are also displayed as symbols of abundance and good fortune. It's a time synonymous with generosity, reunion, and a renewal of the family bond.
During the Chinese New Year period, Malaysians of Chinese descent pay respects to their ancestors and gods through prayers and offerings. Reunion dinners are also central to the festivities, as families come together to enjoy an elaborate meal on New Year's Eve. Special foods are prepared and eaten throughout the holiday as they are believed to invite good luck. Unique customs, such as giving red envelopes filled with money to children and unmarried adults, are also practiced. The celebration concludes with the Lantern Festival, where beautiful lanterns are lit and carried to symbolize letting go of their past selves and receiving a fresh start.