The meaning behind paper gifts for the dead

A paper model of a yacht hanging above Zin Xin Ki Trading (Ipoh) shopowner Kelly Tan (in pink) – like the private aeroplane, another item that is particularly popular this year. Photo: The Star/Amanda Yeap

Ng Kok Kheun insists on spending over RM2,000 on paper products for Qing Ming rituals. His family has tried in vain to persuade him to stop spending so much on items that will be burned up – but he stands firm.

Among the rituals the Chinese practise on the Chinese version of All Souls Day is the burning of luxury goods reproduced in paper, as they believe their departed loved ones will receive these gifts in their afterlife.