GEORGE TOWN – Cow statues put up by local authorities in Penang to usher in the Year of the Ox have baffled some members of the public.
The statues, which are part of Chinese New Year décor, were spotted at the Air Itam roundabout and Batu Lanchang market.
They are of horned dairy cows, which many people point out are altogether different from oxen.
John Teoh, who manages the Langkawi Wildlife Park, said the ox, or bull, is regarded as the male of the species, whereas the cow is the female, providing milk and birthing calves.
Batu Lanchang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong told The Vibes that the cow decorations have a friendlier look.
“There are different ways to portray an ox, and this is a cartoonish type. It is a better look.”
Feng shui student Goh Shuan Thing said the Chinese zodiac is based on stars.
“In the olden days, people used layman’s language for easier representation. Every year, the star position changes. When it comes to a cow or an ox, it does not matter.
“In 2021, it will be (the year of the) ‘metal ox’. The metal ox will be a year filled with changes and uncertainties, particularly in the beginning of the year.”
Geopathologist and feng shui enthusiast Tong Eng Siang said it does not matter if the zodiac is represented by a cow or an ox.
He said “metal” means “gold” in Chinese, and gold represents wealth in the community’s culture.
“Since an ox is a bull, we wish to have a bullish market, too.”
The state government has put up CNY decorations, featuring a dragon, cow and ox, at the Esplanade.
State tourism and creative economy exco Yeoh Soon Hin said the décor will be lit up from 7pm to midnight for one month.
In a statement, he said although CNY celebrations are significantly toned down this year, the festive occasion can still be observed safely and in line with Covid-19 standard operating procedures.
“Unfortunately, the Penang Chap Goh Meh celebration had to be called off this year.
“However, CNY has always been a celebration with cultural significance, as it marks the start of a new year.
“While 2020 was a challenging year, we mark this festivity in the hopes that it will bring about a better year ahead.
“I hope that the décor will bring festive cheer to everyone.” – The Vibes, February 11, 2021
