Blend of traditions: Santa Claus helping the children roll tang yuan during the double celebration at the Finger Tips Day Nursery and Kindergarten in Island Park. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Santa Claus was on hand for a Secret Santa gift exchange, calling out to eager children as the cheery notes of Jingle Bells filled the room.
Then, the youngsters got to roll glutinous rice balls to mark the Winter Solstice Festival as Santa Claus watched over them.
It was a happy scene at a kindergarten where pupils and teachers shared a heartwarming blend of festive traditions.
For six-year-old Chan Yu Hang, choosing a gift for his friend was the part he enjoyed most.
“I chose a gift from my friend’s wish list. The best part is, my mother paid for it,” he said cheekily.
He said he was also excited about rolling tang yuan (glutinous rice balls), having helped his grandmother prepare them at home during the festival.
However, he felt a little sad, knowing he will be starting Year One and parting ways with some of his friends next year.
“There won’t be any more Secret Santa gifts or tang yuan to roll,” Yu Hang lamented.
Tan Khhaie El, another six-year-old, said the Secret Santa exchange was her favourite part because she loves surprises.
The children smile happily with their presents as they pose for a photograph with Santa Claus, teachers and principal Jenny Sakwang (seated on Santa’s right).
“I like opening gifts. Secret Santa is exciting as I don’t know who picked my gift,” she said.
The two were among dozens of children at Finger Tips Day Nursery and Kindergarten in Island Park who took part in the Secret Santa exchange and tang yuan rolling session last Friday.
The celebration also featured a Christmas lunch of roast chicken, honey-glazed carrots, baked broccoli and cauliflower with yoghurt dressing, as well as garlic bread.Gingerbread man cookies, cakes and pastries were also served.
Principal Jenny Sakwang said both celebrations were jointly held to help the children appreciate different traditions.
She said the Secret Santa exchange was first introduced 20 years ago when the centre opened, adding that a short pre- recorded video featuring each child naming their preferred gifts was screened three weeks ago.
“The children then draw names and buy a present for the person assigned within a RM40 budget.
“The gifts are then placed under a Christmas tree before they are given out on the last day of school, without revealing the gift givers’ identities,” she said.
She said the Secret Santa exchange reminds the children that kindness does not require grand gestures, only thoughtfulness and the joy of giving.
As for rolling the tang yuan, she said the festival is a symbol of harmony and togetherness.
“It brings people closer and helps create beautiful memories,” she added.
