KUCHING: In the olden days, during Chap Goh Mei (fifteenth day of the Chinese New Year) or also dubbed as the Chinese Valentine’s Day, single women would throw mandarin oranges into the river or sea to wish for the man of their dream.
However this tradition is less practised nowadays as it is deemed to pollute the rivers or seas.
According to Sarawak Teochew Sim Association second vice president Sim Kiang Chiok, who is a fifth generation Teochew in the state, in the past, streets were lighted up with lanterns and very pleasing to watch when there were no electricity street lights like in the present time.
“During Chap Goh Mei, single ladies would be seen going out and enjoy the sight.
“They would also be seen throwing mandarin oranges into the river in hopes of finding a good husband,” he said.
He noted that single ladies in the old days were seldom seen going about, because society would label such ladies as ‘loose’ or not ‘pure’ and as such it would be very difficult for them to get a husband.
“So, Chap Goh Mei is the day when single ladies are allowed to go out, be seen and not be stigmatised by the society and to indicate to the men their availability,” he said.
On the issue of throwing oranges into the river, Sim said the fruits are organic and would easily disintegrate when thrown into the river.
“Unlike some man-made material like plastics which could pollute the river for hundreds of years because they are not biodegradable,” he said.
He suggested that those celebrating the Chinese Valentine’s day practise a symbolic throwing of the mandarin oranges in a designated area of the river or fountain.
He noted that in previous years, Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) did organise an event where mandarin oranges were thrown into their indoor pond.
“I do hope there would be a designated place for this tradition to continue,” he said, adding that throwing mandarin oranges into the rivers not only symbolises finding a true love, but also in hopes for more good luck and blessings.
