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.

Source: The Star March 03, 2026 00:50 UTC