KUALA LUMPUR: Fame and fortune are only secondary to Goh Liu Ying who is reminded of her roots every single year during Chinese New Year.
The 30-year-old Malaysian mixed doubles specialist believes nothing beats celebrating the festive season in her grandparents' humble home in Batu Berendam, Melaka.
While avoiding flashy expensive gatherings, Liu Ying admitted there is something special about getting together with her family in the house built by her grandfather, Goh Wee Meng.
"I look forward to the festive season every year because it reminds me of my childhood, when everything was carefree and it was just you and your cousins having all the fun in the world.
"Now we're all grown ups and busy with our own lives but when we come back for reunion it's beautiful. There's nothing fancy but that's just how we like it.
"You just can't get this feeling in a busy city like KL," said the 2016 Rio Olympic Games silver medallist.
Liu Ying, who makes up the World No 6 combination with Chan Peng Soon, added she finds pleasure in helping around at home, especially when it comes to preparing for the reunion dinner.
"It's nice because everyone gets involved. I love helping around the kitchen," added Liu Ying.
While family comes first during festive periods, Liu Ying revealed that she had been squeezing in a session of training every day to stay in shape.
Sparring with some of family friends, who were former state shuttlers, Liu Ying said it is the best way to keep up the spirit and to maintain consistency.
"Of course I can't train as much as I do back in KL because I have to help around the house as well.
"However, I'm extremely thankful to some of the friends who agreed to come spar with me, it's really fun and it helps me stay fit.
"And don't worry, I didn't bully anyone," joked Liu Ying.
Peng Soon-Liu Ying, who are now independent after leaving the BA of Malaysia (BAM) last year, will compete in the National Championships on Feb 18-23 first before playing in the German Open (Feb 26-Mar 3) and All England (Mar 6-10).