KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 14 — The streets of Kuala Lumpur are decorated with bright colours of red and gold as the Chinese prepare to usher in the auspicious Year of the Horse on January 31.
People from all walks of life are flocking to malls and streets to admire the unique decorations and shop for bargains ahead of the lunar new year.
Englishman Martin Rayson, who was born in the Year of the Rabbit in 1963, visited Bukit Bintang to admire the unique lanterns, paper cutouts and flowers on display.
He hoped for prosperity, happiness and good health for his family and friends this year.
“Malaysians are passionate about their culture. I feel excited to be part of the celebration,” Rayson said.
His son James, 15, born in the Year of the Tiger, said he enjoyed the air of festivity as well as the variety of traditional delicacies.
“I love the sweet biscuits and cookies,” he said.
For six-year-old Singaporean Faith Yeo, just looking at the paper horses was fun as she adores the animals.
“This year, I wish my parents will be less strict with me,” she said in jest
Victoria Arputhan, who was shopping in Petaling Street, loved the creative items sold at the roadside stalls.
“The prices are reasonable and I’m here to do some shopping for my daughter-in-law, who is a Chinese,” she said.
“The Year of the Horse is auspicious as it represents a handsome and strong animal.”
Another shopper, Henry Saw, said the Year of the Horse would be a successful one for those who worked hard.
“A horse can gallop very fast and like us, this is our chance to work hard and smart throughout the year to be prosperous and successful,” he said.
