These Malaysian families celebrating CNY view superstitions as a tool for unity

Chiam (standing, second from right) and her family wear bright clothes on the first day of celebrations. Photo: Jaclyn Chiam

On the first day of Chinese New Year, many things are deliberately left undone.

Floors go unswept, dark clothes stay buried in the closet, medicine is kept away from consumption and words are chosen carefully, tempers even more so.