Sunway Carnival Mall’s “Golden Era of Fortune” showcases a vibrant marketplace scene with traditional vibes. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT, CHAN BOON KAI, JEREMY TAN/The Star and courtesy of malls
WHEN shades of red and gold abound in town, one knows that Chinese New Year is around the corner.
Visit most shopping centres or hotels and you are bound to find dazzling decorations meant to usher in good fortune and prosperity.
Many establishments have built their displays around various themes.
This includes the timeless wonders of springtime, as seen in Kedah with Aman Central’s eye-catching “Whimsical Spring Blossoms” festive set-up.
Shoppers can enter through a grand arch and stroll along a raised bridge lined with peach blossom trees. This leads to a central pagoda where one can take in the entire scene.
An open pavilion next to it provides more photo-taking opportunities while up above, there are cascading red and gold fabric lanterns in various shapes.
Aman Central marketing and communications assistant general manager Ken Chin said they decided to blend classic and modern motifs in creating the vivacious spectacle.
“As a favoured destination among locals and tourists alike for festive celebrations, we strive to create ever more photogenic and sensory-oriented experiences.
“We hope this interplay of vivid hues and timeless design will bring everyone good luck, prosperity and fortune for the year ahead,” he added.
In Penang, Queensbay Mall similarly drew on the season of rebirth and renewal to flesh out its “Blooming Bliss” garden that has an abundance of cherry blossoms and peonies.
Some of these are incredibly life-like with petals that open and close.
Glowing golden butterflies, some in pairs, flutter around the flowers and symbolise love and freedom.
“The first blooms of spring have long been seen as heralding the start of a celebration of happiness, abundance and prosperity.
“We believe the richly symbolic scene would shower shoppers with the best of everything that matters,” said CapitaLand Investment Malaysia northern region general manager Peter Chan.
But the centrepiece of the display is actually a giant porcelain vase-shaped pavilion with striking blue-and-white motifs that make it stand out against the sea of pink and red.
“Porcelain originated from ancient China and the finest pieces were revered as treasures throughout many dynasties. This precious craft is worth celebrating,” added Chan.
Longing for home
Those who cherish memories of Chinese New Year at grandparents’ homes will find their heartstrings tugged by Gurney Plaza’s nostalgic “The Timeless Reunion” display.
A cache of old-styled Malaysian houses encircle a central courtyard.
Bougainvillea plants, a symbol of resilience, climb their aged walls. Auspicious couplets adorn every corner while must-have dishes fill up dinner tables.
Try to spot vintage elements like a bicycle, radio, retro-styled calendar, wooden cabinets and black-and-white portraits, cleverly incorporated into the structures.
Chan hoped the scene, framed by hanging lanterns above, would remind shoppers of the simple yet heartfelt traditions that had long filled the Chinese community’s hearts with joy.
“Chinese New Year is more than a celebration, it’s an enduring legacy passed down through generations.
“In the rush of modern city life, some of these traditions may feel like distant memories. We wanted to bring back the togetherness, shared culture and unbroken ties that unite all no matter how far and wide life took them,” he added.
Similar themes of gathering and togetherness also inspired Sunshine Central’s “Scent of Reunion” backdrop centred around an ancient incense- making village.
Traipse around the pathways and you will get to see the elaborate craftsmanship and processes used to transform wood-based clay into incense and joss sticks of various sizes.
Some are in the process of being shaped while others are dried on rattan baskets. When bundled up around the bases of fan-shaped trees, the fragrant strands also represent floral blooms.
The compound of one house serves as a gathering area, with a table of must-have delicacies ready to be enjoyed. Old bicycles and other details further add character.
“We aim to create experiences that resonate deeply with the community. It highlights the importance of connection and harmony while allowing shoppers to immerse in the beauty of tradition,” said Cynthia Hwang, chief executive officer of Crimson Omega Sdn Bhd, the mall’s parent company.
Straits Quay Retail Marina’s “Province of Spring” decorations have the feel of traditional Chinese ink paintings with rows of lighted houses in a palette of white, grey and red.
Bamboo shoots and greenery symbolise regrowth, while a circular backdrop of misty mountains complete the three-dimensional effect. Surrounding it are lanterns and streamers in red and gold.
Mall senior manager Wong Siew Hui said these elements captured the essence of the season and were designed to usher in good luck and prosperity.
“We hope it creates a joyful atmosphere for all who visit throughout the holidays.”
Roaring auspiciousness
Sunway Carnival Mall’s striking “Golden Era of Fortune” celebration uses a lively marketplace as a visual narrative to celebrate life and success.
There are a pair of archways – one lined with flowers, the other illuminated by lanterns – that lead to a bustling square featuring a two-storey high, lighted pagoda.
All around are traders’ shops that double up as vendor space. Some are meant for photo-taking and come complete with an assortment of products. A central well represents water, an enduring symbol of life, tranquility and persistence.
Mall general manager Chai Wen Yew said the theme, adopted by Sunway Malls nationwide, was inspired by traditional Chinese paintings depicting thriving eras of prosperity.
“This spectacular experience reflects on the glories of the past and seeks to inspire brighter futures together.
“We hope the thoughtfully curated elements would allow shoppers to feast their eyes, spark joy and kick-start a year of exciting opportunities,” said Chai.
Equally auspicious is 1st Avenue Penang’s “Golden Blessings in Blooms” festive decorations featuring majestic golden trees.
These symbolise growth and abundance and are complemented by a stunning archway bridge adorned with lanterns and flowers that make a good photo spot.
A copious amount of golden ingots – one making up an alternate entrance, another backing the main stage and the rest hanging gracefully above – complete the wealth-inviting scene.
Modern interpretation
Standing out from other venues is Gurney Paragon Mall that took a decidedly contemporary approach for its “WonderFu Fortune” festive decorations.
Pastel hues soften the scene while light strips and floral patterns add intricacy. Shoppers can ascend a flight of stairs to take photos among giant Chinese characters spelling out Gong Xi Fa Cai.
They can also check out an open area ringed by giant mahjong tiles, dice and lightboxes, as well as a kaleidoscopic mirror tunnel nearby.
Mall marketing communications head Loo Ai Leen said they chose to fuse traditional elements with modern aesthetics to appeal to a broader spectrum of visitors.
“While red is traditionally predominant for Chinese New Year, we incorporated vibrant pink, teal and lilac tones this year to add a touch of sophistication. But with seasonal must-haves like cherry blossoms and lanterns, it retains an aura of auspiciousness,” she added.
Hotels captivate visitors
Though less elaborate than the displays at shopping malls, many of the state’s hotels have creatively decorated their properties to bring in festive vibes.
Penang Marriott Hotel dressed up its giant logo with the ornate headgear typically worn by the God of Prosperity and surrounded it with gold ingots and mandarin orange trees.
Complex general manager Subash Basrur said it was part of the brand’s longstanding efforts to create memorable experiences for guests by embracing the rich cultural traditions of the community.
“We wanted to bring the warmth, positivity and sense of togetherness that Chinese New Year represents. It brings joy to guests from the moment they arrive and create an immersive and enriching cultural experience for everyone,” he added.
Newly opened Iconic Marjorie Hotel drew on Peranakan charm to dress up its lobby.
Old-style umbrellas and intricate tile motifs pay tribute to the state’s unique cultural heritage.
These are juxtaposed against mandarin orange plants, floral blooms, golden vessels and lanterns to create a memorable photo-taking backdrop.
The Granite Luxury Hotel’s driveway is enlivened with hanging lanterns and a striking red structure filled with gold coins besides an assortment of flowers in matching tones.
“These timeless symbols embody the festive spirit and cultural richness of Chinese New Year.
“As we are located along a bustling street in town, we want to give guests and passers-by alike a chance to capture special memories,” said its general manager Moh Wei Ken.
Hompton by the Beach, Penang, also created a special photo corner with a lion dance head, cherry blossoms, gold bars and a backdrop of a Chinese imperial palace.
Its general manager Suffian Phoong said lion dances had long been an integral part of the celebration and the hotel wanted to bring in its roaring energy and optimism.
“While there are lots of performances, the public may not always get to be up close with performers. Here, guests will get to check out the craftsmanship of the paraphernalia and snap unique photos.
“More importantly, it spreads blessings and prosperity to all who visit Penang,” he said.