[PHOTOS] A Hokkien New Year in the new norm

KLANG – Ushering the Hokkien New Year last night was a muted affair compared with years past, mostly due to travel restrictions imposed by the movement control order (MCO).

Today is also a celebration of the Jade Emperor’s birthday, which falls on the ninth day of the first month in the lunar calendar.

It is significant to the Hokkien people, thanks to a legend that originated in Fujian, China.

The story goes that a Hokkien coastal village was attacked by pirates on the eve of the Jade Emperor’s birthday, and villagers hid in a sugar cane field that appeared suddenly.

The men then fought the pirates and won.

Hence, offerings of sugar cane are vital for prayers to usher the Hokkien New Year. Other offerings include fruits, flowers and selected dishes.

Devotees also offer elaborate paper houses, effigies, paper pineapples, dragon robes, gold paper and joss sticks.

Typically, prayers start at 11pm and end just after midnight with fireworks.

For Klangite Gan See Chan and his family, the prayers were held at his home in Taman Sentosa Klang. He was joined last night by his sister’s family, who live in the same residential area.

He told The Vibes that he is keeping up the tradition this year, though his offerings are considered modest. 

The Vibes’ AZIM RAHMAN captures the family’s intimate celebration of the special night. – The Vibes, February 20, 2021