Chinese New Year 2024 in Malaysia marks the arrival of the Year of the Wood Dragon, symbolising strength, growth, and transformation. As Malaysians prepare to welcome this auspicious occasion, vibrant celebrations are anticipated across the country.
Homes will be adorned with traditional decorations, and families will come together for reunion dinners on the eve of the Lunar New Year. The sound of firecrackers and the sight of colourful lion and dragon dances will fill the air, bringing prosperity and good fortune for the coming year!
Explore more articles to discover ways to enhance your Chinese New Year celebration:
- Best Chinese New Year Wishes and Greetings
- Best Chinese New Year Gifts in Malaysia
- Best Chinese New Year Hampers in Malaysia
- Best Chinese New Year Outfits in Malaysia
1. What is the Meaning of the Year of Dragon Wood?
The upcoming Chinese New Year, commencing on 10 February 2024 heralds the arrival of the Year of the Wood Dragon in Chinese astrology. As they progress through the zodiac cycle, the 12 zodiac animals are linked with one of the five elements – metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. As an animal returns after a 12-year cycle, its elemental association shifts.
The Chinese zodiac designates 2024 as the Year of the Wood Dragon, also known as Yang Wood on Dragon or Jia Chen (甲辰 in Chinese). The Dragon’s fixed element, Chen, is Earth (Wu 戊), symbolizing stability, honesty, and loyalty. In 2024, the Dragon’s variable element is Yang Wood, or Jia (甲), symbolizing traits like growth, creativity, and flexibility.
According to The Woks of Life, each of these elements carries specific meanings, outlined here on a simplified level:
- Wood: symbolising creativity and imagination
- Fire: representing passion and adventure
- Earth: associated with patience and stability
- Metal: signifying persistence and ambition
- Water: embodying agility and eloquence
Those born in the Year of the Wood Dragon are known for their ambitious nature and innovative thinking. In Chinese culture, the dragon is associated with success, intelligence, and honour, making this combination particularly dynamic. Individuals of this zodiac year are often perfectionists, tenacious in pursuing their goals and aspiring to make a positive impact on the world.
2. What Makes Dragon a Famous Chinese Zodiac Sign?
The dragon is an immensely popular Chinese zodiac sign, esteemed for its cultural significance and positive symbolism. Revered as a symbol of power, good fortune, and imperial authority in Chinese folklore and mythology, the dragon holds a unique and cherished position. Its positive traits, including intelligence, ambition, and a diligent work ethic, contribute to the appeal of individuals born in the Year of the Dragon.
In countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, China, and Malaysia, more babies are born in Dragon years because they are believed to bring good fortune. A recent survey by INTI International University & Colleges found that Dragon Babies aim for success, wanting wealth, financial security, and jobs in big companies.
Beyond its astrological significance, the dragon is a central figure in festive celebrations, particularly during Chinese New Year, where dragon dances are performed to usher in good luck and prosperity. Widely depicted in Chinese art, literature, and architecture, the dragon’s majestic and mythical characteristics make it an enduring and captivating emblem in Chinese culture.
3. What Can You do During the Chinese New Year?
If you are not sure how to make the most of your Chinese New Year celebrations and enjoy them, check out these suggestions to experience the cultural richness of the festival:
1. Visit the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple
As the oldest and only Burmese temple in Penang, Dhammikarama Burmese Temple serves as a central hub for various Chinese festivals, including Mid-Autumn celebrations and Chinese New Year prayers. The temple’s significance is heightened during Chinese New Year, where devotees come together to light numerous candles, symbolising wishes for good fortune and luck in the upcoming year.
2. Experience the enchanting lights at the Kek Lok Si Temple
During Chinese New Year, the renowned Kek Lok Si Temple undergoes a dazzling transformation, illuminated by thousands of LED neon lights and traditional Chinese Lanterns. This captivating spectacle turns the temple into a magical fairyland, creating a mesmerising experience that is not to be missed. If you haven’t had the chance to visit the Kek Lok Si Temple during Chinese New Year, witnessing this breathtaking display is an absolute must.
3. Watch the Lion Dance at 1 Utama Shopping Mall
The annual lion dance performance at 1 Utama Shopping Mall is a cherished tradition, especially during Chinese New Year. This display is not only a cultural spectacle but is believed to usher in prosperity and good luck and ward off evil spirits. Accompanied by skilled flute and drum musicians, the lion dance becomes an exhilarating performance that families and friends can enjoy together.
Check out more things you can do during the Chinese New Year:
- Best Places To Visit in Malaysia During Chinese New Year
- Best Chinese New Year Activities To Do in Malaysia
4. Which Malls Are Worth Visiting for Chinese New Year Decorations?
If you are looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities of Chinese New Year, you and your family can consider visiting malls renowned for their spectacular decorations at:
1. The Gardens Mall, KL
Experience the fusion of East and West on Chinese New Year as The Gardens Mall unveils enchanting decor. Picture vibrant wallpapers adorned with blooming trees and pagodas, an abundance of decorative vases, and elegant hanging lanterns showcasing exotic birds. Get ready to be captivated by the unique charm of the festivities.
2. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
Renowned for its extravagant Chinese New Year decorations, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur has become a spectacle of grandeur. In previous years, the shopping centre showcased the Largest Golden Bull, an impressive structure standing at a majestic height of 15 feet, rightfully earning recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records.
3. Suria KLCC
Celebrate the arrival of the new year with boundless joy and prosperity as you immerse yourself in festive moments at Suria KLCC. The mall boasts multiple enchanting Chinese New Year setups, creating a captivating atmosphere that invites visitors to embrace the spirit of the season. You can wander through the meticulously adorned spaces, capture the essence of prosperity and more!
Enhance your celebration by heading to these restaurants after appreciating the CNY decorations:
5. What are the Must-Eat Chinese New Year Snacks in Malaysia?
During Chinese New Year in Malaysia, there are several must-eat snacks that are enjoyed as part of the festive celebrations. Some popular choices include:
- Bak Kwa
A popular savoury snack, Bak Kwa is a type of Chinese jerky made from seasoned and grilled minced meat, often pork or beef. - Nian Gao
Also known as the Chinese New Year cake, Nian Gao is a sticky rice cake symbolizing growth, progress, and the promise of a better year. - Honeycomb Cookies (Kuih Loyang)
Crisp and intricately patterned, these deep-fried snacks are made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and coconut milk. - Pineapple Tarts (Tart Nenas)
These buttery pastries with a sweet and tangy pineapple jam filling are a quintessential Chinese New Year treat. - Love Letters (Kuih Kapit)
Thin, crispy, and folded into a cylindrical shape, these coconut-infused wafer rolls are a delightful snack enjoyed during the festivities. - Peanut Cookies
Crispy, crumbly cookies infused with the rich flavour of peanuts offer a nutty and satisfying taste.
Here is a list of snacks you can enjoy while spending quality time with your loved ones during CNY:
6. How Is the Lantern Festival Celebrated Among the Chinese?
The conclusion of the Spring Festival holiday occurs on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year, marked by the Yuan Xiao or Lantern Festival. Falling on 24 February 2024, this festival coincides with the first full moon of the new lunar year.
The Chinese community comes together to display vibrant lanterns. While lanterns were originally utilised for illumination, they have evolved into decorative items and lampshades in contemporary settings. Available in diverse sizes, shapes, and colours, the red round lantern remains the most prevalent, adorning spaces across the landscape during the Chinese New Year festivities.
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