Chap Goh Mei is a festival that marks the end of Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrations. Before the close, writer Vicky Fong reflects on two key highlights of the season: the stunning Bountiful Blessings fish lantern installation at Kwai Chai Hong in Kuala Lumpur and a heartfelt community celebration in Kuching. From symbolic traditions to vibrant gatherings, these moments capture the festive spirit, unity and cultural richness of the occasion.
Looking forward to a prosperous year ahead
Before we gather around the table for our family reunion dinner this evening to celebrate Chap Goh Meh — the 15th night of Chinese New Year — marking the conclusion of the festivities, here are two key highlights from the season.
First, our visit to Kwai Chai Hong in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown for the 2025 Bountiful Blessings fish lantern installation. This iconic alley is alive with visitors, especially in the evenings, when the many fish lanterns illuminate the space, shining brightly until February 16.
You may wonder, why fish instead of the zodiac animal of the year, the Snake? In Chinese, the word for fish, Yu, sounds like the word for abundance, making it a symbol of prosperity. This is why the common New Year greeting Nian Nian You Yu is often exchanged, meaning “Abundance every year.”
This vibrant festive display attracts both tourists and locals, many of whom eagerly wait in line at the entrance. Their journey begins at the Blessing Bridge, a symbolic pathway adorned with lanterns overhead, which is one of the must-see photo spots.
As you gaze up at the lanterns in their full glowing beauty, it is easy to become lost in their charm, just like many others before you. If you understand Mandarin, take a moment to read the inscriptions on the lanterns, each bearing wishes for good fortune.
From the young to the elderly, everyone loves the huge fish-shaped lanterns floating above, as well as the nostalgic wall murals that evoke memories of childhood.
The second highlight took place on the 12th day of Chinese New Year at a home venue in the heart of Kuching City, surrounded by lush greenery and a scenic view. It was a heartfelt celebration that embodied the spirit of community, attended by the ladies of the Sayang Sayang Group, founded by Lorna Hui, a 70-year-old line dance teacher who has been conducting classes at the Kuching Tai Poo Association for 20 years.
Lorna, who strongly believes in giving back to society, shared, “We are helping retirees and housewives discover creative ways to live their best lives. These activities not only keep them physically and mentally active but also provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment.”
The Sayang Sayang Group is well known for donning their beautiful Nyonya-style kebayas at various festive events across Kuching, where they collaborate or participate in the celebrations.
Lorna’s close friends were also invited to foster meaningful connections and a sense of togetherness. Among them were Marian Chin, a long-time food culture documenter in Sarawak, publisher of Kuching In and Out, producer of indigenous canned food, and curator of gastronomy events; renowned veteran emcee Jennifer Lau; Mary Chan, the founder of the Kuching Dance Academy; and yours truly.
The event began with a meaningful Yee Sang tossing session, which featured a unique twist — the addition of strawberries and mandarin oranges to the usual mix of carrot, cucumber, and pomelo. Traditional heritage foods served included chicken with black sesame seeds, yam stalks with assam sambal, pineapple prawns, achar chillies, peanuts and cuttlefish porridge, and other dishes that added to the delightful culinary experience, concluding with delectable desserts.
One standout dessert was a beautifully crafted agar agar (jelly) shaped like koi fish, as fish are considered a lucky symbol for Chinese New Year. Datin Hannah Loh brought them to the celebration, much to the delight of everyone present.
The joyous occasion was marked by plenty of laughter and camaraderie, as the ladies, dressed in their best ‘Oriental Theme’ outfits, celebrated the 12th day of Chinese New Year, which also marked the first day of preparations for the Lantern Festival, falling on Chap Goh Meh, February 12.
As we celebrate this 15th day of Chinese New Year, may your reunion dinner be filled with warmth and joy. And remember, a whole fish symbolises abundance, fortune, prosperity and blessings in the year ahead!
