PETALING JAYA: The long-standing tradition of tossing oranges during Chap Goh Meh is taking on new forms as the younger generation finds creative ways to keep the matchmaking custom alive in an increasingly wired world.
Chap Goh Meh, which marks the 15th and final day of the Chinese New Year celebrations, is historically associated with a unique matchmaking ritual.
Traditionally, unmarried women would write their names and contact details on mandarin oranges before tossing the fruits into rivers or lakes, hoping that a potential suitor would retrieve them, creating a chance at romance.
Despite changing times, the tradition still holds significance for many.
For operational finance assistant Chang See Qing, 26, Chap Goh Meh remains an exciting and meaningful celebration.
“Chap Goh Meh is special because it only happens during Chinese New Year. The festive atmosphere makes everything feel different from regular days, and this tradition adds to the joy and excitement,” she said.
“It’s not just about finding a partner, it’s also about embracing the festival’s cultural heritage and the spirit of celebration.”
While the symbolic act of tossing mandarin oranges persists, the younger generation is exploring new ways to adapt the tradition to contemporary lifestyles.
“We could organise an event where instead of using oranges, participants use more eco-friendly materials to share their contact details,” she suggested.
Customer service agent Yuen Siu Loon, 25, thinks that technology could enhance the tradition.
“We could modernise the approach by using QR codes instead.
“Unlike handwritten messages on oranges, QR codes can store much more information such as names, social media handles and contact details. This would not only be more efficient but also allow people to connect easily in today’s digital world,” Yuen said.
Some institutions have already introduced innovative twists on the tradition.
Charis Chiang En-Hui, 21, a student at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), said: “Instead of throwing oranges into a river, students here write their social media usernames on slips of paper and place them in gendered boxes.
“Participants then randomly select a username from the opposite gender’s box, giving them the chance to connect virtually.
“This method feels more relatable to my generation while still honouring the essence of the tradition.”
With dating apps dominating the matchmaking scene, some feel that the tradition is becoming outdated.
Music teacher Kelly Lim Wan Xuan, 25, who noted that many young people have moved away from the old practice, recommended using dating apps instead.
“These apps make it easier and faster to meet people. You don’t have to attend a physical event like on Chap Goh Meh to connect with someone new,” Lim said.
Grayson Pan Kee Hao, 23, believes that the orange-tossing tradition is less relevant in today’s urbanised world.
“This kind of matchmaking makes sense in smaller, close-knit communities.
“But in cities, people meet naturally through universities, workplaces or even cafes. Dating apps are simply an extension of this,” said the Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS student.
However, he also believes that if given the chance, many young people would still enjoy participating in the tradition.
“While the methods may change, the spirit of bringing people together remains relevant,” he added.
