GEORGE TOWN: Quite a number of single ladies are delighted that the mandarin-tossing tradition to mark the end of Chinese New Year celebrations here is postponed to tomorrow, coinciding with Valentine’s Day.
By right, it should have been done yesterday evening, which was Chap Goh Meh (Hokkien for “15th night”).
Marketing officer Adeline Tan, 26, described the move as great because she could celebrate the occasion with her family.
“I think this is pretty convenient. If the celebration was on Feb 12, it would be troublesome for me as I have to work the next day,” she said.
Tan, who is single, said she made plans to join other ladies to throw mandarin oranges into the sea, a ritual women here believe will help them find Mr Right.
Property development executive Jean Chew, 26, was also glad the CNY finale in Penang would take place tomorrow evening.
“Last year, I was overseas, so I missed it. I’m glad I can join in the celebration this year without worrying about work the next day,” she added.
She also felt the timing was better as Chap Goh Meh and Thaipusam celebrations would not clash and cause traffic gridlock. Another single woman, who only wanted to be known as Rose, said she has never missed the ritual.
The 40-year-old nurse said it is not only a fun activity; it symbolises the hopes of single women.
“Who knows, I might find my future husband this time,” she said.
State tourism committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the state’s celebration takes place at the Esplanade from 5pm to 11pm.
The mandarin-tossing by ladies starts at 7.10pm.
Some historians say that the mandarin-tossing tradition likely began in Penang by the Hokkien Chinese during the early 19th century, and it was linked to romance.
Young maidens back in the day were not allowed to walk around in the streets and Chap Goh Meh was said to be the only time they could step out, much to the delight of young bachelors.
This added a touch of romance to the final evening of CNY festivities, which included a large full moon.
In later years, ladies would write their names and contact details on the mandarins they throw into water bodies and men would try to retrieve them.
The event at the Esplanade includes lion dance performances, the renowned 24 Festive Drums show, Chingay stunts, dondang sayang shows and Chinese mask-changing art.
A grand fireworks display will light up the sky at 10.45pm.
