MELAKA ATTRACTED 16.79 MILLION VISITORS IN 2017
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This blogspot is being created to compliment our main Tourism Melaka website at www.tourism-melaka.com.
We hope to write our comments and views on the development of the tourism sector in Melaka so that old cultural jewels can be retained and new ones generated to attract more visitors to our Melakan shores.
For us to continue our journey, we like to invite visitors to pen their comments and views so that we can create a sustainable and vibrant tourism sector in Melaka.
TW Kang
Article source: http://tourism-melaka.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default
Tags tourism melaka, www.tourism-melaka.com
PARADISE FOR FAMILIES
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HEAVEN FOR FAMILIES, HAVEN FOR NATURE
By Anis Rozalina Ramli
The Andaman, Luxury Collection Resort in Langkawi is a special place where families and nature relax blissfully in each other's company.
image credit to @edrwright from The Andaman Instagram page.
Tucked away in a million-year-old tropical rainforest, The Andaman has the warm, clear waters of the Datai Bay at its doorstep and the Mat Cincang mountain range as its backyard. Located on one of the 99 islands collectively known as Langkawi, the entire resort is blanketed in the green jungles of Malaysia so dense that nothing of this paradise resort is visible from the sea.
With the miracles of nature right at its doorstep — along with majestic sunsets, flying lemurs, giant squirrels, colourful corals and their resident marine friends — it's not difficult to remember who's boss here at this resort. It's a daily reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of things! Definitely no airs here even though the facilities and service standards reflect the property's Starwood Luxury Collection branding.
Despite its luxury positioning, it's heartening to know that The Andaman welcomes kids with open arms. There's nothing as humbling as catering to the needs of the most discerning of guests — the under 12s! They are tough to please but The Andaman certainly tries very hard and they've got the formula down pat. Kids menu, check. Wading pool, check. Babysitter, check. Kids playroom, check. Only, they've gone one step further with the SPG Kids Pass which allows children 12 and under to have three meals a day for just RM60 per day, per child. All the typically popular kid-approved favourites are on the menu – fish and chips, pizza and pasta – but there are a few adult-inspired creations as well such as cheese-and-fruit skewers, a caprese salad-type sandwich, and Asian vegetable rolls. Parents with kids will definitely appreciate this one-price convenience at meal times.
kids playroom at The Andaman
flying lemurs right at your doorstop
Holidays with Purpose
But, of all the facilities available at The Andaman, it is the coral nursery programme that's a welcome distraction – both with young and old. Believed to be the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, the coral nursery is a rehab centre, private snorkelling area and education centre all rolled into one. Tucked away at one end of The Andaman beach, the nursery is nothing more than a huge saltwater pool filled with thriving coral and marine life but its environmental purpose is one that resonates with many modern travellers who are more conscious of their travel footprint.
In the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, a 6,000-year-old coral reef fronting the resort was badly damaged. That was the impetus for the resort's coral conservation project encompassing coral clearing activities and taking guests on educational coral walks to learn about the fragile marine ecosystem. At first, it was just the resort staff clearing the dead corals that were rolling over and damaging live coral in the sea – all part of the day's work. Interested guests, both children and adults, soon joined them in their bit to help the environment and it naturally took off as a regular resort activity for guests.
During spring tides when sea levels pull back to reveal a 6,000-year-old reef, the resort offers guided walks along the stretch of coral garden where abundant marine life-forms make their home. Guests who are lucky enough to be at the resort during this time get to learn about this fragile ecosystem from the resort's resident marine biologist, Dr. Gerry Goeden. Others purposefully check with the resort to make sure their visit coincides with the spring tide dates for this experience alone.
One of the highlights of the coral nursery is the opportunity to snorkel within its natural environment under the expert guidance of the charismatic Dr. Goeden. The coral pool, thriving with all manner of colourful tropical marine fish and the rainbow-hued corals, offers a still environment and great visibility for even first-time snorkelers to appreciate the blooming beauty of the underwater marine world. Without choppy waves in the open sea to sway you, it's easy to manoeuvre around the pool with Dr. Goeden firmly by your side narrating the aspects of the coral environment. His deep knowledge of conservation and extensive experience with the Great Barrier Reef in Australia brings a more meaningful appreciation for the ecosystem. Expect to swim among friendly razor, clown and parrot fish as well as groupers, lobsters, sea urchins and starfish. Brain coral, and other hard and soft coral flourish here, showing of their full beauty.
With 80% of coral reefs damaged due to dynamite fishing, net fishing and overfishing, the resort aims to educate children about the importance of a coral reef ecosystem. The nursery's programmes such as Ocean in a Bucket, Young Marine Biologist and the Artificial Reef Modules (ARMs programme) all give important insights into the environment with opportunities for old and young guests to participate in marine conservation efforts at the resort. Guests can make mini versions of the ARM out of concrete and plant live coral on it, which will be nurtured and eventually released into the sea as homes for marine life! Meanhile, the Young Marine Biologist programme for 8 to 10 year olds aspiring to work in the marine environment gives a hands-on training in managing a marine environment at the nursery which includes cleaning the pool, feeding the fish and collecting dead corals.
Adult Fun
With kids contented, the adults can rest easy, too, and enjoy the range of resort services such as spa, beach-front bars, sun-deck dining and golfing.
The Andaman has great dining facilities at its six dining areas: Tepian Laut, Beach Bar, The Restaurant, The Japanese Restaurant, Jentayu Lounge and Jala.
Dining at Jala Restaurant, with beautiful sunset views and therapeutic sand floor (go barefoot in a little black dress for best effect), is great for the fresh seafood sourced from the local community. Its exciting menu respectfully blends aspects of the east and west in palate-enticing concoctions. Fresh seafood is available daily for selection and meal preparation according to diners' preference.
The Japanese Restaurant is said to bring authentic Japanese menu to the shores of Langkawi each evening. For sashimi with a difference, try the cuts from local fish.
The Beach Bar, meanwhile, is a fun place to hang out in the day or at sunset. Day-time temperatures determine the discounts offered on drinks during Happy Hour, so soaring temperatures in the summer mean deeper cuts in price! The bar prides itself on such signature drinks as the Radiant Maiden, a curious blend of aged rum, kaffir lime, agave nectar, lime juice and chili pepper. Or try the Perfect Balance mocktail, a refreshing combination of kiwi, rambutan and lime suitable for guests of all ages.
Fusion of Fun and Healthy
Image credit to @TheAndaman Instagram page. Watermelon salad is a perfect cooling salad on a hot day by the beach
A healthy cuisine menu has also been carefully designed by the chefs at the resort to incorporate healthy ingredients with delicious results, enticingly presented to tease the taste buds. The menu has been curated carefully to include raw desserts and gluten-free and vegan offerings with fresh and organic ingredients that are free of pesticides, synthetic fertilisers and insecticides, with herbs and micro-greens harvested from the resort's own herb garden. As the dishes arrive at the table, one truly feels the inspiration behind the creations that celebrate and honour sustainability, fair trade and local farms, and which are prepared with love and consciousness.
Another adult activity worth indulging while at the resort is golfing at the new Els Club Datai, designed by former number one golfing legend Ernie Els also known as The Big Easy. The 18-hole par 72 bunkerless championship course meanders its way through a 10 million year old rainforest, cascading down to the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.
Those looking for some "me" time will appreciate the resort's V Botanical Spa village. Located at the far north of the resort, V Botanical Spa is the first spa in Southeast Asia to offer 100-percent certified organic food grade products. Perched high on a verdant hillside are four treatment villas hidden away in the rainforest. While the range of spa treatments are relaxing and therapeutic, the beautiful view of the crescent-shaped bay and the lulling sounds of the ocean are what make this special place a heaven for tired minds and knotted muscles.
The Andaman oozes of traditional Malay architecture yet fulfils all modern expectations and is further made special with its magical location near sun, sea, sand, jungle and mountain. As a family-friendly resort, it has earned its stars among families with children, but what's most heartening is that its heart is at one with nature.
Article source: http://blog.tourism.gov.my/feed/
Tags Adult Fun, ARM, Beach Bar, Datai Bay, Els Club Datai, Ernie Els, Family Friendly, Gerry Goeden, Happy Hour, Jala Restaurant, Langkawi, location, Mat Cincang, organic food, Radiant Maiden, Southeast Asia, Starwood Luxury Collection, Tepian Laut, travel, Young Marine Biologist
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Malaysia may not have a city of love like France but this country isn't short of romantic places to go or romantic things to do especially in the month of love. Let us share with you some ideas on how to spend a special day with your loved ones. Follow the Cupid's arrow to see these top five activities:-
1. Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra, Kuala Lumpur
Spend a romantic evening by watching Conductor Karen Durgaryan and the Ballet of Armenia entertain their audience with memorable performances of scenes from Tchaikovsky's greatest ballet scores, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. Swan Lake, one of the most popular ballets in the world, tells the story of evil sorcerer Von Rothbart who turned Princess Odette into a swan. The ever-popular Christmas Eve tale of Clara and The Nutcracker never fails to delight audiences of all ages.
The Petronas Philharmonic Hall is a premier concert hall providing a world-class musical experience. It is the home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), an internationally acclaimed home-grown orchestra. The annual schedule here includes chamber music, contemporary music and commissioned works
Take a train from any station within Klang Valley area and make your way to KLCC Station (KJ10).
Numerous and convenient, taxis are a popular way of traveling. Always request the driver to switch on the fare meter before your journey. The taxis can easily drop you off around Suria KLCC's main entrance.
Access KLCC through Jalan Ampang, Jalan P. Ramlee and Jalan Kia Peng.
Tunnels at Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Tun Razak, and the Ampang – Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH) are also directly connected to the KLCC Parking Bays.
Date: 2-4 February 2018
Venue: Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra
Level Two, Tower Two, PETRONAS Twin Tower
Tel : +603 2331 7008 (General Line)
+603 2331 7007 (Ticket Booking)
Website: http://mpo.com.my
The Petronas Philharmonic Hall is a premier concert hall providing a world-class musical experience. It is the home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), an internationally acclaimed home-grown orchestra. The annual schedule here includes chamber music, contemporary music, and commissioned works.
2. Kampung Kuantan Fireflies, Kuala Selangor
The fireflies of Kampung Kuantan gained prominence in the early 1970s when a local businessman saw the commercial potential of this miracle. Now, the tourism experience has been entrusted to and developed by the Kuala Selangor District Council. It has expanded rapidly with the addition of 27 small boats that are provided for the visitors. Today, Kampung Kuantan is known for the magical fireflies not only to the local visitors but also around the world.
Operational Hour : Daily: 7.00pm – 10.30pm
Fare/Rate : RM53.00 per boat (4pax)
Transportation System to Kampung Kuantan
The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kampung Kuantan takes about 45 minutes. Taxi service is available from Kuala Selangor to Kampung Kuantan at RM40.00 for a ride (4 people). However, there are few places of accommodation that provides transportation facilities to Kampung Kuantan.
The administrator of the firefly's area provides free parking space, food stalls and souvenir stalls. There is also a playground specifically for those who bring their children. Cruising the river using the traditional way will provide satisfaction for the visitors to watch the beauty of the magnificent fireflies. The usage of the small boats will also avoid sound and smoke pollution that can disrupt the firefly's habitat.
Who to Contact : Kuala Selangor District Council
E-mail : [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]
Tel : 03-32891439 / 1549
Website: http://www.mdks.gov.my/en
DAZZLING LIGHTS OF THE FIREFLIES AT KAMPUNG KUANTAN
3. Love Boat, Putrajaya
Show your loved ones how special they are by treating them to a romantic evening on the lake of Putrajaya. Take a ride on a traditional wooden boat called the "Dondang Sayang". Let the Love Boat set the stage for a nostalgic or romantic evening, with uninterrupted views of Putrajaya's most breathtaking sights.
The boat is manned by a single boatman. It is best to enjoy the ride in the evening from 5pm or any time before sunset as you will get to witness an astonishing view of Putrajaya from the lake. The Love Boat package is inclusive of an hour ride, as well as food and beverages.
This is one of the main bridges in Putrajaya, connecting Precinct 2 to the residential area of Precinct 8. The design of this cable-stayed bridge resembles a futuristic ship. Spanning 2.4km, this bridge can accommodate motorized traffic, bicycles, and pedestrians. Highly visible even from afar, it has become one of the beautiful icons of Putrajaya.
Getting There :
By rail:
25 minutes on KLIA Transit from KL Sentral to Putrajaya ERL station
15 minutes on KLIA Transit from KLIA to Putrajaya ERL station
30 minutes by Rapid KL bus or Metrobus from Kota Raya bus stop (KL)
By taxi or car
30 minutes from KL City
Should you wish to charter a boat for a private function or merely visit the scenic spots of Putrajaya, you may contact for more details:
CRUISE TASIK PUTRAJAYA
Jeti Putra, Jambatan Putra, Presint 1, 62000 Putrajaya, Malaysia.
Website: http://www.cruisetasikputrajaya.com
4. Couples' Healthy Getaway @ The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Perak
Treat yourself and your other half to a truly romantic and healthy getaway at the award-winning, luxurious 5-star retreat, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, located in Ipoh, Perak. It is perfect for all love birds out there who are in need of a rejuvenating experience. Here in this lovely retreat, you can choose to do as much or as little as you want on your couples healthy holiday.
From a couple's spa treatment massage to dipping at the geothermal hot springs dipping pools, to soaking in the natural sauna formed in the dark interiors of the thermal steam cave, it is guaranteed that all these sessions are sure to leave you and your partner feeling brand new.
As an adults-only resort, your romantic holiday here will not be interrupted by the presence of screaming babies or running toddlers. It's also serious in helping guests achieve their goals for optimum health with holistic tailor-made programmes and pre-planned packages for as short as 2 nights or as long as three weeks. Besides the geothermal hot springs treatments, guests can request for weight-loss management and detox programmes, colon hydrotherapy, and antioxidant restoration therapy, among others.
After all, couples who sweat together, stay together.
THE BANJARAN – PERAK
Travel by Car/Taxi
The Banjaran is just 15 minutes away from the city of Ipoh, 1.5 hours from Penang and 2 hours from the capital of Kuala Lumpur by road. Ipoh is located on the North-South Highway, to the north of Kuala Lumpur. Take the Ipoh South Toll Plaza Exit No. 138 if you come from Kuala Lumpur, and the Ipoh North Toll Plaza (Jelapang) Exit No. 141 if you come from Penang. Do look out for road signs that lead you to The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat along the road from either one of the exits.
GPS Coordinates to The Banjaran:
4° 37′ 51″ N 101° 9′ 20″ E
Travel by Train
Enjoy scenic views during the 2.5-hour journey to Ipoh on the ETS Train. There are daily services from KL Sentral in Kuala Lumpur to the Ipoh train station. Ipoh is on the Singapore-Kuala Lumpur-Penang-Bangkok route, so there are also trains to and from Penang and all the way to and from Bangkok. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat can arrange for transfers from the train station.
Travel by Air – Chartered Helicopter
The Banjaran has its own on-site helipad facility for helicopter travel. Please call in advance as landing is strictly by appointment only. For more details on chartered helicopter services and helipad facilities please contact the Sales and Marketing Department at +603 7495 1791 or email them at [email protected]
Website: https://www.thebanjaran.com
Watch the Sunset @ Kuching Waterfront, Sarawak
" sunset is the sun's fiery kiss to the night."
― Crystal Woods
WATER FRONT – SARAWAK
Some things are inherently romantic and a gorgeous sunset is one of them, so cuddle close to the one you love and watch the magnificent sunset change colors right before your eyes at the Kuching Waterfront in Sarawak. Also known as Kuching Esplanade, the sunset here is very dramatic and with the wooden sampan and wooden houses on stilts in the background, it is not just romantic but will also conjure up scenes of yesteryear. What could be more romantic than that?
You can sit with your other half at one of the many wooden benches provided along the Kuching Waterfront that run parallel with the Sarawak River, or you can opt for a sunset cruise and enjoy the environment and the scenery of this city of contrast.
For more information on Kuching Waterfront, please visit https://kuchingwaterfront.com, or contact:
Sarawak Tourism Board
Tel : +6082 423600
Website: https://sarawaktourism.com
Tags Contact Information, Contact Kuala Selangor District Council, food stalls, Ipoh, Jalan Kia Peng, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Kuching Waterfront, Level Two, Love Boat, Operational Hour Daily, Penang, Perak, Public Facilities, Putrajaya, Sarawak River, Swan Lake, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Tower Two, travel, Venue Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra
Divine Diversions
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Malaysia is known for its freedom of religion as enshrined in its constitution. And this right is evident in the many religious symbols and buildings seen throughout the country. Mosques, temples, churches, gurdwaras and others…they cater not only for the believers, but with the popularity of "religious tourism" more people are interested to visit, see and learn about the religious, cultural and aesthetic significance of such places of worship.
With Chinese New Year just around the corner, it's the perfect time to visit some of the temples in Malaysia.
If you are in the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, there is just no shortage of temples to visit. Among the notable ones is Thean Hou Temple that sits along Jalan Klang Lama or Old Klang Road. Built in 1894, it is believed to be one of the oldest and largest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia. The name is derived from Goddess Tian Hou who protects the fishermen.
This magnificent Chinese temple has golden roofed pagodas and strings of lanterns. Located inside are three majestic statues of deities, including the main deity Thean Hou. Within its grounds are statues of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac
The Temple is also known as the Temple of Goddess of Heaven, and reflecting this is its beautiful 6-tiered structure that houses a zen turtle pond, the sacred Bodhi tree and many prayer halls. A visit here is to escape the chaotic traffic jam that Jalan Klang Lama is famous for, and a balm for the stressful mind.
Tourists heading north along the PLUS highway will find temples of a different kind, partly a reflection of the unique geological contours of Perak known for its splendid limestone hills and caves.
Perak, once famous as a tin mining haven, attracted many Chinese workers to the area in search of riches. Naturally, there are many temples in the area to serve the burgeoning community.
As a capital city of Perak, Ipoh is dotted with various temples, mostly nestled among the hills and hidden away in caves. One such temple is the Sam Poh Tong Temple. It is said to be one of the oldest temples, even as old as Ipoh itself.
SAM POH TONG TAMPLE – IPOH
The temple gained popularity for its unique landscape and the caves which were carved and made into chamber halls and altars. Practically built into the limestone
inside a mountain, the temple's unique ambience and peaceful nature adds to the sanctity of the place.
Apart from that, the temple is also popular for its collection of tortoise ponds. According to Chinese beliefs, turtles and tortoises are much associated with longevity and wealth.
Traveling east to Muslim-majority Kelantan, known as "Serambi Mekah" or Verandah of Mecca," one might not expect to see any temples. Surprise, surprise, one of the popular tours in Kelantan is to visit all the Buddhist temples in the state!
Whether they are Chinese or Siamese temples, the existence of such places of worship only drive home the fact that religion is freely practised throughout the state.
Tok Mek Temple in Kampung Cina, Kelantan, stands out among all other temples for its historic significance and origins. Officially known as Tin Hin Kong temple, it is reputedly the most famous Taoist temple in the state.
TOK MEK KONG TAMPLE
Known to the locals as Tokong Mek, it welcomes visitors with a bright red arch into an inner courtyard designed with colourful murals and wall relief. What is so special about the place is that therein lies within the temple a drum that was a royal gift from the Sultan of Kelantan.
While these three temples stand out among Malaysia's landscape as unique, there are hundreds of other temples scattered all over Malaysia that deserve a visit. Some examples are the Centipede Temple in Seremban and the Snake Temple in Penang. It's just a matter of choosing whichever temple is nearest to you, and don't forget your photography gear to capture that viral-worthy shot!
Temple: Thean Hou
Address: 65, Persiaran Indah, off Jalan Syed Putra, Kuala Lumpur
Temple: Sam Poh Tong
Address: Gunung Rapat, Ipoh, Perak
Telephone: +605-255 2772
Temple: Tok Mek
Address: Jalan Kampung Cina off Jalan Pantai Cinta Berahi, 15300 Kota Bharu, Kelantan
*number may be updated/changed without prior notice
Tags Address Gunung Rapat, Address Jalan Kampung Cina, Goddess Tian Hou, Ipoh, Jalan Klang Lama, Jalan Pantai Cinta Berahi, Jalan Syed Putra, Kota Bharu, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Mecca, Penang, Perak, Persiaran Indah, Temple Sam Poh Tong, Temple Thean Hou, Temple Tok Mek, Thean Hou Temple, Tin Hin Kong, Tokong Mek
The Red Envelope
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Chinese New Year, which will fall on 16 February 2018, is celebrated by the Chinese all over the world. It is also known as the Lunar New Year as it is based on the lunar calendar as opposed to the Gregorian calendar in Western countries. In Malaysia, the first two days of the Chinese New Year celebration are public holidays.
2018 is the year of man's best friend, or the Year of the Dog, according to Chinese astrology. The celebration starts with the new moon on the first day of the Lunar New Year and ends on the full moon, 15 days later. The 15th day of Chinese New Year (or Chap Goh Mei) is observed with a lantern parade in Chinese communities.
The origin of this celebration dates back to early Chinese civilisation 5,000 years ago. The word Nian, which means "year" in Chinese, was originally the name of a ferocious beast that preyed on people on the eve of New Year. To scare Nian away, the people pasted red paper decorations on windows and doors, and set off firecrackers, as Nian was afraid of the colour red, the light of fire and loud noises. Therefore, at the beginning of every year, they repeat these rituals which have been passed down from generation to generation.
Legend also has it that the ancient Chinese asked a lion for help. The lion wounded Nian, but it returned a year later. This time, the lion couldn't help as it was guarding the emperor's gate. So, the people used bamboo and cloth to fashion an image of the lion. Two men crawled inside, pranced and roared, and frightened Nian away. This explains the Lion Dance, one of the most impressive sights during Chinese New Year.
The phrase Guo Nian, which may means, "survive the Nian", is used to mean "Celebrate the (New) Year". The word Guo in Chinese means "to pass". Today, red paper decorations and firecrackers still signify the cheerful Chinese New Year period.
CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION IN MALAYSIA
The New Year season starts early in the twelfth month of the previous year and lasts until the middle of the first month of the New Year.
In Malaysia, Chinese New Year preparations begin a month before the actual celebration, when the Chinese shop for decorations, food, drinks, new clothing, groceries and titbits. Chinese New Year songs are heard in shopping complexes which attract customers with many seasonal sales and promotions. Chinatown at Petaling Street is an ideal place to experience the excitement of the pre-festive celebration.
It is customary to spring clean the house and symbolically sweep away any trace of bad luck to make way for good luck and fortune. Some families even renovate their houses or give them a new coat of paint. After that, the houses are decorated with paper scrolls bearing verse couplets inscribed with blessings and auspicious words like happiness, longevity, and wealth.
Long before the eve of Chinese New Year, people living far away from their families make their journey home. Traffic jams build up on highways while airports, bus terminals, and train stations are normally packed.
No matter how tiring the journey may be, family members are expected to gather around the table for their Chinese New Year eve reunion dinner, the most important meal of the year. After dinner, they spend the night playing cards, watch TV programmes dedicated to the celebration, or just have a good time catching up with each other.
On the first day of Chinese New Year, ritual homage is offered to ancestors and reverence paid to the gods. New clothes are worn and younger family members greet their elders saying Kong Xi Fatt Chai (Mandarin) or Kong Hei Fatt Choi (Cantonese), meaning "congratulations and prosperity". The ang pow, a red envelope with cash, is given by married couples to children and unmarried adults.
The seventh day of Chinese New Year is known as "everybody's birthday". On this day, the Chinese eat yee sang, a combination of raw fish, pickled ginger, shredded vegetables, lime and various sauces. This meal is supposed to bring prosperity and good fortune to those who eat it.
On the eighth day, the Hokkien-speaking community pray to Tee Kong, the God of Heaven at midnight. On the ninth day, numerous offerings are set out in the forecourt or central courtyard of temples to celebrate the birthday of the Jade Emperor. The 15th day is Chap Goh Mei which marks the official end of Chinese New Year.
During the Chinese New Year period, many Chinese families often receive visitors at home. Relatives and friends, regardless of their race and religion call on one another, exchanging good wishes and gifts like tangerines (called Kam in Cantonese, meaning "Gold") and other traditional New Year delicacies.
The Chinese New Year open house, like other major celebrations in the country, is also held on a national level to enable all Malaysians and tourists to enjoy the cultural event. The Malaysian open house concept bears testimony to the fact that tolerance and mutual respect prevail in this multi-racial country.
Through the customs and traditions of Chinese New Year, the spirit of peace, good health, happiness and prosperity is engendered and spread among people.