TO usher in the Year of the Dragon in three weeks, various dragon-themed decorations have been sold to set the tone for the upcoming Chinese New Year festivities.
Regarded as the auspicious and extraordinary creature in the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Dragon symbolises ower, luck, and success.
Checks by Buletin Mutiara at several places in George Town showed that many people have started their early preparations to welcome this special year.
Despite the economy not reaching its peak, the Chinese community is actively purchasing decorations for their homes.
When Buletin Mutiara approached Lu Siew Kheng, the owner of the Wan Lee Brothers Sdn Bhd, she mentioned that her business has been brisk since a few months ago.
“Early orders started pouring in since October, with interests from hotels, multinational companies, and offices.
“We’ve sold out various decoration items, including red lanterns, dragon-shaped ornaments, and red stickers, which have been in high demand.
“Each year, we strive to enhance our decorations to match market innovation and creativity, offering a variety of styles and shapes for customers to choose from. Decorations must be as creative to attract customers,” Lu, 68, said.
Since the Year of the Dragon takes place every 12 years, Lu emphasised the need to sell off all decorations featuring dragons to avoid wastage.
“We need to wait another 12 years if our stock is kept,” she quipped.
With the celebration approaching, Lu expects a merrier atmosphere.
On pricing for her items, Lu said it would remain the same as the price for her shop items imported from China remain the same.
“The only difference is the weak currency, which has caused our ringgit to be lower,” she added.
Over at Eng Ong Heong Trading in Rangoon Road, Angeli Choo, the owner’s wife, showed Buletin Mutiara a selection of Chinese New Year items.
“The auspicious flower, symbolising prosperity, health, and wealth, has been the most sought-after accessory by our customers,” she said.
Choo also foresees a gradual increase in customers in the coming weeks.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis and Joanne Foong