GEORGE TOWN: Malaysia could well scale new heights and 'slither' its way to prosperity if it can harness the energy of the snake in 2025, says a Feng Shui expert.
Master Lee Cheng Hoe said in Chinese culture, snakes, like dragons, symbolise transformation, prosperity and wisdom.
He said the Year of the Snake comes at a time when Southeast Asia finds itself at the crossroads of an exciting era.
"The Year of the Snake may bring both wisdom and transformation. It is up to us to align with the energies and rise to the occasion.
"The path ahead for Malaysia is dynamic and those who understand and adapt to these forces are sure to find prosperity and success in the Year of the Snake," he told the New Straits Times.
Lee, a UK-trained mechanical engineer, is on a mission to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve harmony and success through Feng Shui.
Growing up in Penang, a city rich in cultural heritage, Lee had always had an interest in the relationship between architecture, energy, and well-being.
As his interest in Feng Shui grew, Lee began studying and practising it, and 20 years ago, he took a leap of faith and left engineering to pursue Feng Shui full-time.
Today, he specialises in making Feng Shui and I-Ching concepts accessible and logical to clients.
On the outlook for next year, Lee said the world entered a period marked by dramatic global shifts in 2024.
"This 20-year period, associated with the South, signals a rise in influence for Southeast Asia, India, and parts of Africa.
"As India becomes the most populous country and Southeast Asia strengthens its role on the world stage, Malaysia's position is set to evolve. Additionally, resource-rich areas will benefit as the global fight for resources intensifies.
"For Malaysia, this new period aligns with significant opportunities, particularly in the southern regions of the country," he added.
He said the transformation of Johor, already a booming hub, and the flourishing of Kuching in Sarawak were clear indicators of how these energies are manifesting.
He said Malaysia's geography, marked by its southern and eastern territories, would rise in prominence, and the infrastructure developments in places like Penang and Selangor are seen as crucial in this new phase.
However, he warned that it would not be smooth sailing.
Lee said there was potential for political unrest in the northwest, especially in Penang and Kedah, as well as Sabah, which faces a state election this year.
Despite these political clouds, according to Lee, 2025 presents a generally harmonious year, particularly for Southeast Asia.
"This region, including Malaysia, is positioned for economic recovery and growth, particularly in tourism and agriculture.
"The Yi Wood Fire Snake Year aligns well with the economic energies of the country, suggesting that industries like medical tourism and agriculture – especially the iconic durian – will thrive.
"For businesses and individuals, there is promise of wisdom and intellectual growth, which bodes well for consultancy, education, and healthcare industries.
"While economic growth might be sluggish, this is the year to focus on strategy and long-term development," he said.
However, companies in the semiconductor sectors, particularly those in Selangor, are well positioned to grow, though this requires quick adaptation to changing market conditions.
Lee said the Year of the Snake casts a shadow over the transportation and logistics sectors, with an increased risk of delays, accidents, and disruptions.
"For Malaysia, the next few years are a balancing act between harnessing the beneficial energies and navigating the complexities of political and economic turbulence.