KUALA LUMPUR: The Chinese community is urged to follow strict standard operating procedures (SOP) while celebrating Chap Goh Mei today.
Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) president Tan Sri T.C. Goh said priority should be given to safeguarding public health and safety in the country's fight against Covid-19.
"From last year, Chinese New Year and Chap Goh Mei have been affected by rising cases of Covid-19 and the Movement Control Order measures. This is understandable as the pandemic is a health concern.
"With regard to Chap Goh Mei, I believe the Chinese community will continue giving its full cooperation to the government and the SOP.
"We did the same with the Lunar New Year and the Hokkien New Year, or Bai Thi Gong, which were celebrated in a scaled-back manner.
"This year, we will continue to celebrate according to our long-standing traditions, but under the new normal."
Chap Goh Mei marks the last day of the 15-day Chinese New Year celebration.
He said with the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme launched on Wednesday, Malaysians could hopefully return to a semblance of normalcy after more than a year of fighting the virus.
"Let us all continue to work together to look after ourselves and our community. Hopefully, we can celebrate our festivities without any worry soon."
In Sabah, Joanne Tia, the women's leader of the Sandakan Hainan Association, said Chap Goh Mei would be a muted affair.
"In previous years, we celebrated Chap Goh Mei by organising events for our members, which included a fundraiser, lou sang ceremony, calligraphy competition and traditional Chinese performances.
"This year, we can only tentatively schedule the fund-raising scholarship event next month.
"We have to forego other activities, including the lion dance, firecracker display and social visits."
She advised those celebrating to adhere to the SOP and opt to meet online.
"This pandemic is a just a bump in the road. It will never knock down our culture, traditions and customs, which will only come back stronger."
Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia exco member Yong Kuei Yoong said while some traditional activities had to be put on hold due to the SOP, all was not lost as the celebration would continue, although under the new normal.
"Under the new normal, it will be a less merry celebration. But what's important is for everyone to stay safe. Hopefully, by next year, we can emerge stronger."