Episode 10: Celebrating Singapore: Navigating the Singaporean Chinese New Year

Truly Expat Podcast

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Get ready to dive into the vibrant tapestry of Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore on this special episode of Truly Expat Podcast! Join hosts Paula and Rachel as they explore the rich tapestry of traditions and events surrounding the Lunar New Year.

The episode features an exclusive interview with Andy Jeremiah Lam, a local Singaporean and the founder of Ah Fok Media, sharing insights into the essence of Chinese New Year festivities.

We delve into the significance of reunion dinners, the joy of receiving red packets, and the mesmerizing Dragon Dance. Learn about the cultural nuances of the celebrations and discover how Singapore transforms into a haven of festivity during this auspicious time.
For all the information and more you can find everything right here on our dedicated blog: https://trulyexpatlifestyle.com/cny/
Glossary:

• 恭喜发财 (gōng xǐ fā cái) – May you be happy and prosperous
• 财源广进 (cái yuán guǎng jìn) – May your money and treasures be plentiful
• 招财进宝 (zhāo cái jìn bǎo) – May wealth and treasures fill your home
• 新年大吉 (xīn nián dà jí) – Wishing you luck for the new year
• 吉星高照 (jí xīng gāo zhào) – May good fortune fall upon you
• 工作顺利 (gōng zuò shùn lì) — May your work go smoothly
• Tossing of a Salad (Yu Sheng or Lo Hei): A ritual where a group tosses a salad violently to increase wealth and prosperity. The salad typically contains carrots, white radish, cucumber, oil, plum sauce, pepper, five spice powders, sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, raw fish (usually salmon), lime, and deep-fried flour crisps.
• Cheongsam: A traditional Chinese fitted dress with a collar and buttons up the side.
• Ang Bao: Red Packet: A traditional gift containing money, symbolizing good luck and blessings.
• Johor Bahru (JB): The southern peninsular of Malaysia, easily accessed from Singapore, is known for affordable shopping.
• Da Bao: Takeaway.
• Chu Si (初四): The fourth day of the Lunar New Year.
• Mei Cai Kou Rou: Salted or Sweet Preserved vegetable with braised pork.
• Singapore Dialect Groups: Hokkien, Teochew, Cantonese, Hakka, Hock Chew, Hainan.
• Kidney-shaped Wooden Peg: Divination Block / Moon Block (筊杯 Jiao Bei).
• Nian: Bad luck.
• Huan: Wishing prosperity for the business (Ground Peanuts).
• Guai 乖: Obedient, well-behaved.
• Pineapple (凤梨): In Hokkien, called “Ong Lai,” resembling "旺来“ (Wang Lai), meaning Prosperity Comes.
• Baba: Peranakan term for a male.
• Nonya: Peranakan term for a female.
• Mahjong: A Chinese game played with tiles and chips (money).

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Disclaimer:
The content provided in this episode is for informational and cultural purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy, the dynamic nature of Chinese New Year celebrations and traditions may vary. The hosts and guests are not experts on cultural practices, and decisions mad

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