PETALING JAYA: As the Covid-19 pandemic is still far from over, everyone should protect their loved ones and refrain from going out unnecessarily, said Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong (pic).
The Transport Minister said everyone should stay vigilant and adhere to the standard operating procedure to curb the spread of Covid-19.“The pandemic is not over. To heed the government’s call, the usual activities such as lantern festivals, tossing of mandarin oranges and guessing the lantern riddles are either absent or held on a low-key scale this year.
“For this year’s Yuan Xiao (Chap Goh Meh), it is recommended that everyone stay home, gather less, wash their hands frequently and wear a mask, ” he said in a Chap Goh Meh post on his Facebook page yesterday.
Dr Wee, who is also MCA president, said those who stayed at home were actually safeguarding their families.
“You are actually protecting your health and the health of your family.
“I believe that the darkness will pass and dawn will come, ” he said, adding that the arrival of the Covid-19 vaccine would also change the dark days to brighter ones soon.
“With the vaccine, I hope the pandemic will soon be over and everything will return to normal like before, ” he added.
On his Instagram page, Dr Wee noted that Yuan Xiao marked the culmination of the Lunar New Year celebrations.
“Chap Goh Meh is a meaningful date for everyone at all levels of society, the old and young who celebrate it together.
“It is also known as the Chinese ‘Valentine’s Day’, ” said Dr Wee, adding that the day is usually celebrated with a family meal.
“The 15th day of the first lunar month is also the first full moon of the year.
“I wish you all a happy Yuan Xiao, happiness and health, ” he said, adding that he also wished for the country’s peace, prosperity and economy.
