Chinese New Year custom's do's and dont's

Mention Chinese new Year and you will immediately think of the ever famous ‘ang pau’ or red packets and Mandarin oranges. Though widely practised by the Chinese community, many may not be aware of the symbolism behind each custom and tradition. According to Chinese belief, many rules should be practised in order to achieve good luck and prosperity for the New Year ahead. The founder of Good Feng Shui, Kenny said among one of the rules is that all Chinese families should clean their house before the festival. "Before welcoming the New Year we throw away all the old junk not only physically but also in our mind, bad experience that will bring bad luck to be thrown in that day," said Kenny. However, they are forbidden to sweep the house on Chinese New Year because it is believed to drive away good luck. The Tiong Hua community will purchase new clothes on the day as a symbol of beginning of the New Year. "It's like we have reset all the energy that was thrown out the first day are renewed, physically with new shoes." he said. Often during Chinese New Year, the Chinese will avoid rudeness or vulgarity because it is believed to bring misfortune. "Usually on this day, though a kid breaks a glass family member will not be angry because they believe it’s a sign of good luck," said Kenny. Another rule practiced is by not wearing the colour black or white as it is the sign of mourning. As for the amount which should be put into the red packet or 'ang pau', Kenny said the amount should be in even number. "The amount in the 'ang pau' must be even. If they are giving RM6; it must be 1 piece of RM1 and 1 piece of RM5. The numbers must be even. Even means perfection. Normally we would avoid giving odd-numbered,” Kenny added. The practice of giving Mandarin oranges is also a symbol of good luck. "Mandarin oranges are called ‘kam’ in Cantonese which means the gold is a compulsory in every Chinese New Year because it symbolises abundant wealth to the Tiong Hua society. The golden coloured oranges are like gold bars to give to others." But there are a few who also give apples as a symbol of good health. "Nowadays many people also give apples ‘ping-kuo’ which means peace and good health." Kenny added. The Chinese New Year’s theme is definitely red is believed to bring good luck thus homes will be decorated with red colour.