gong-xi-fa-cai


In Mandarin you read: Xin (New) Nian (Year) Kuai Le (Happy),
So, wishing you “Xin Nian Kuai Le, or Gong Xi Fa Cai as most of Malaysians say, that means they wish you a prosperous and lucky year. 2009 is the year of OX

Some predict that Kuala Lumpur will be empty for one week as Chinese New Year (CNY) or Spring Festival start this week-end. Actually, it’s time for the second huge migration of Malaysians : the other biggest is for Hari Raya – celebrating the end of Muslim Ramadan – when all the Malaysians muslim go back to their home-town (Balik Kampung). Malaysians from chinese origin will go back to their home town to visit the elders and celebrate CNY – Malaysians like to use acronyms for anything – with their family. Most of the shops will be close for at least 2 days. Kuala Lumpur will be quiet. Some people who like challenges suggest to lie down on the streets of Kuala Lumpur thinkin ther will be no car at all…

Malaysian china-towns will be colorful, chinese temples will be beautifully adorned with lanterns and crowded. As a traveler you should be lucky enough to meet a Lion Dance in one of the china-town street all over the country or in the temple. Catch one orange from the Lion’s mouth, it is supposed to bring you luck and prosperity. And try as much different delicious food that you can find. 
Find more information about CNY in Malaysia at http://allmalaysia.info/msiaknow/festivals/cny.asp

Thanks PIN for the nice “doodle”. Thanks Kiew for the Chinese translation.
Sorry readers, if you find some English mistakes, this post has not been proof-red by Serina who is very busy in Johor.

Catherine Bossis, 23 january 09