Chinese New Year at KSMU
On February 28, 2026, a special atmosphere filled the Healthy Nutrition Center of KSMU: Malaysian students of the International Medical Institute at KSMU organized a vibrant celebration of Chinese New Year — a festival marking the arrival of spring and the awakening of nature. The event brought many positive emotions to all participants and introduced them to the fascinating traditions of the East.
The dining hall was transformed with red lanterns and garlands decorated with golden hieroglyphs adorning the walls. The air was filled with the aromas of Eastern spices, inviting guests to the festive table where traditional treats awaited them.
The Malaysian students made every effort to ensure the event was engaging and unforgettable for everyone. A highlight of the celebration was the contest for the best hieroglyph written on red papyrus paper. Participants tried their hand at Chinese calligraphy. Everyone who wished could draw a character — for example, “happiness” (福), “luck” (运), or “joy” (乐).
According to tradition, each guest received a red envelope (红包), symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. The distribution of the envelopes was accompanied by interactive activities and cheerful jokes.
The most memorable and extraordinary moment was an unusual culinary Chinese tradition involving the tossing of a sweet salad made of fresh cabbage, juicy carrots, crunchy cucumbers, fragrant mandarin slices, and croutons using chopsticks. The participants’ task was to lift a portion of the salad as high as possible with their chopsticks. Everyone shared laughter and applauded one another!
At the end of the celebration, guests received a ripe mandarin — also part of the tradition. In Chinese culture, mandarins symbolize wealth and prosperity, and their bright color is associated with the sun and joy.
An atmosphere of unity, fun, and mutual respect made this day special for everyone present.