THERE is a long-standing Chinese New Year tradition where rice donated by households is combined and redistributed — particularly to the needy — as a symbol of unity, care and shared prosperity.
Selangor investment, trade and mobility committee chairman Ng Sze Han has upheld this practice since becoming the Kinrara assemblyman in 2013.
“My service centre would be filled with aunties and women spending their time packing the donated rice for Chinese New Year,” he said.
“They mix the rice and repack it together in a fun activity that fosters togetherness.
“I have never given out mandarin oranges because they are expensive and, if not handled carefully, they can rot,” he added.
Ng was speaking at a press conference held at the Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) building to announce the Selangor state-level Chinese New Year 2026 celebration.
He welcomed rice donations, which can be dropped off by tomorrow at his service centre at No. 5G, Jalan Cenuk 2, Off Batu 10, Jalan Puchong, to allow time for repacking ahead of the state celebration on Feb 7.
Also present at the announcement were Invest Selangor Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Hasan Azhari Idris and MBSJ deputy secretary Ismail Salim.
The event, which is expected to draw about 10,000 attendees, will be held at Taman Rekreasi Wawasan, Persiaran Wawasan, Taman Wawasan, Puchong, from 5pm to 10pm.
“This year, we decided to practise this rice-gifting tradition for our guests, as it symbolises being cared for,” Ng said.
Instead of the customary yee sang prosperity toss, Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and Ng will perform the ceremony using rice.
“This is a stronger symbol, as it represents shared prosperity and unity,” he said.
Ng added that the celebration is being held ahead of Chinese New Year on Feb 17, as it coincides closely with the start of Ramadan.
“We want everyone, regardless of background, to attend the celebration,” Ng said.
He encouraged the public to use public transportation, noting that the three nearest LRT stations to the venue are Pusat Bandar Puchong, Bandar Puteri and Taman Perindustrian Puchong.
He added that Smart Selangor Bus services and demand-responsive transit (DRT) via the Rapid On-Demand app would also be available.
Asked whether he himself would be taking the LRT, Ng replied with a smile: “I can actually walk to the venue because my house is nearby.”
The celebration will feature two open house sessions — the first at 5.45pm for 3,000 guests, followed by a second session at 8.30pm for 2,000 guests.
In addition, 1,500 ang pow packets will be prepared for children aged 12 and below.
To enhance the festive atmosphere, the programme will include a light projection show, as well as choir, brass band and orchestral performances, lion dance, the “Jom Mamak” dance, and a diabolo showcase, among other attractions.