Chinese netizens have praised Malaysia as the country with the strongest Chinese New Year atmosphere – even more than in China. Malaysia-China Friendship Association deputy secretary- general Ng Chin Long commended the local Chinese community for preserving its traditions through strong social cohesion. Ng noted that local Chinese culture is not a replica of China’s, but a localised evolution shaped by Malaysia’s plural society. She said many of China’s netizens not only praised Malaysia’s strong Chinese-language education, but also the emphasis on teaching children etiquette and courtesy. She added that while the Lantern Festival in China typically centres on solving lantern riddles and eating tangyuan, Chap Goh Meh in Malaysia is more varied and lively.
