KANGAR, Feb 17 (Bernama) -- Living as the only Chinese family in Kampung Warna Warni, Kuala Perlis, a married couple’s vibrant Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrations never fail to captivate the villagers.
Running a sundry shop in the village since 1981, 74-year-old Tan Cheng Hock and his wife, Low Lan Yin, have become a symbol of harmony, forging bonds with the Malay community that are as close as family ties.
“I have running this shop for a long time. Villagers have always come here, and over time we’ve become like one family. The bond we have built with them makes my family feel comfortable and welcomed,” he said when met by reporters in Kampung Warna Warni.
Every Chinese New Year, Tan and his wife make it a point to share Mandarin oranges with the villagers, spreading warmth and festive cheer throughout the community.
“Despite our different races and religions, mutual respect has always guided us as a community. We understand and support each other in every situation, especially during festivals and celebrations,” he said.
Tan said the support of their neighbours and the village’s harmonious atmosphere have made life there comfortable for him and his wife.
This Chinese New Year, he and his family adorned their home with simple yet colourful lanterns and lights, bringing the festive spirit to life.
“My three sons, aged 36 to 40 and living outside Perlis, will be coming home to celebrate Chinese New Year with my wife and me. It will be a modest celebration, but one filled with joy,” he said.
Tan’s neighbour, 19-year-old Nor Sawani Sarudin, said she has known the elderly couple, whom she fondly calls “Uncle” since childhood.
She described the Tan family as embodying the strong sense of unity that has long existed in the village.
“He often joins in village activities and never fails to greet everyone, no matter their race. Every Chinese New Year, he never misses giving out Mandarin oranges or biscuits, and we’ve been close since the very beginning,” she said.
-- BERNAMA
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