Families come together ahead of the Chinese New Year

The family of Dennis Lim gathered at the Chinese Recreation Club in Penang for their reunion dinner.

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 9: It was time for the traditional reunion dinner on the eve of Chinese New Year. Nationwide, those celebrating the new year, which falls on Saturday, Feb 10, gathered with their families, big and small for the important event.

For former journalist Tan Jooi Long, the dinner was with family members in Desa Park City here.

Former journalist Tan Jooi Leng with family members at the reunion dinner.

As for Dennis Lim, he celebrated the eve of the Year of the Dragon, joining family members for dinner at the Chinese Recreation Club in Penang.

Traditional dishes that signify good luck, prosperity and longevity are served during this dinner. Praying and paying respect to their ancestors are also observed by many famillies before the dinner. Other regular items that feature during the celebration include oranges, glutinous rice cakes, pineapple tarts, “love letters”.

Firecrackers is also a major part of the new year celebration, with many taking to playing them following their special dinner.

–WE