KUALA LUMPUR: Every Chinese New Year, G. Vassagi, 75, makes it a point uphold a meaningful family tradition – attending the festive open house at Wisma MCA.
For the housewife from Sentul, it is more than just an annual outing. She describes it as an opportunity to instil in her family an appreciation for diversity and unity.
“In Malaysia, all festivals are celebrated together, filled with warmth and mutual respect among the various races.”
Vassagi described the open house as lively with energetic lion dance performances and fireworks. It was also a chance to reconnect with old friends who return each year.
Her son, N. Kanapathy, 36, said he was thankful to have grown up embracing the festivals of various communities.
“My mother exposed me to different cultural celebrations since I was young and we come here every year when we can.
“Now that I have a family of my own, I bring my wife and daughter to continue this small family tradition.”
Kanapathy said he hopes the spirit of harmony would continue to be upheld by future generations, adding that such gatherings strengthen the fabric of Malaysia’s multiracial society.
For housewife Putri Dewi Astuty, 41, her maiden visit to the MCA open house was motivated by her eight-year-old daughter’s curiosity.
“We usually just watch our neighbours celebrate and view the fireworks.
But when my daughter kept asking how Chinese New Year is celebrated, I felt it was better to bring her here so she could see and learn for herself.”
Putri Dewi said her daughter was excited to witness the dragon dance performance for the first time, and sample traditional dishes.
“I want to teach my child to respect other cultures and mix with people of different backgrounds, because this is Malaysia,” she added.
The celebration also left a strong impression on a foreigner experiencing the open house for the first time.
Dusan Boljanic, 30, from Montenegro, described the atmosphere as unique and remarkable.
“I did not expect it to be this vibrant and lively. What impressed me most was seeing people of different races celebrating together.”
Another tourist, Rony Bach, 52, from Austria, said he had experienced Chinese New Year celebrations in other countries, but Malaysia stood out.
“The atmosphere here is festive and as tourists, we don’t feel like outsiders. We genuinely feel part of the celebration.”
