Chinese New Year: Celebrating and staying connected virtually

From online lion dance watch parties to virtual greeting cards, tech is helping Malaysians observe the Chinese New Year while staying safe. — Food photo created by freepik - www.freepik.com

As the sound of the gong, drum and cymbals erupts, a lion decked in bright red and gold jumps from pole to pole, eventually plucking an envelope hidden in lettuce leaves.

The traditional lion dance, which heralds the Chinese New Year, is going virtual this year, as many organisers are answering the call of the government to put safety first in an effort to contain the pandemic.