KOTA KINABALU: This year, the Tionghua community is ushering in the Year of the Tiger, believed to be a positive year in the Chinese zodiac and lunar calendar, says former Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Christina Liew.
In her Chinese New Year message, the Tawau Member of Parliament said all communities look forward to a better, more progressive and productive year which begins on February 1st, 2022 and ends on January 21st, 2023.
According to Chinese astrology, 2022 will be the Year of the Water Tiger and an auspicious one at that.
“First and foremost, the tiger is widely regarded as a symbol of beauty, power, strength and courage. Due to its analogy to physical prowess, we expect the incoming year to be more dynamic, fruitful and successful in all aspects, including poverty eradication, creation of employment opportunities, reinforced security for Sabah and empowerment of women.
“What is great is that Malaysia’s economic recovery trajectory, which is anticipated to be an upward trend, coincides with the Year of the Tiger, and this spells a promising outlook.
“For 2022 to be a roaring success, Malaysia has to resemble the Tiger and roar to the next level of economic vibrance. At the same time, its citizens must play their part to maintain peace and harmony, and contribute to the nation’s growth and prosperity.
“We must cherish the multi-racial unity that we have enjoyed for decades as unity leads to stability. All peace-loving Malaysians yearn for a truly united Malaysian nation,” said Liew, who is also Api Api Assemblywoman.
As Malaysia emerges from the devastation of 2021, the corporate sector could lead the way in spearheading a new Tiger economy, she added.
Liew noted that this fiery animal, revered as the king of the beasts in China, is also an emblem of dignity and protection.
“With the government’s substantial allocations earmarked for flood mitigation measures in Sabah this year, it is hoped that the Tiger will protect the population from deluges and other natural disasters.”
Given that the movement control order (MCO) will not be re-imposed (as stated by the Government), she stressed that the people have to be more health-conscious and remain vigilant as we are not out of the woods yet.
“It is inevitable that we have to learn to live with the coronavirus (as advised by health experts), and take responsibility for our own health and safety to avoid getting infected.
“There is no room for complacency as we cannot dispense with the standard operating procedures (SOPs) set by the authorities, especially during the forthcoming Chinese New Year celebration,” Liew cautioned.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) had recently declared that the Covid-19 pandemic is “far from over” while Malaysia’s Health Minister had warned about a possible Omicron wave in the country.
On a personal note, the Api Api Assemblywoman said Sabahans must embrace the traits of the Tiger such as boldness, competitiveness and resilience, and show their mettle in coping with the challenges of life towards strengthening the family institution and improving their livelihoods.
“When the going gets tough, be sturdy too, like the Water Tiger. Let’s put the outgoing year of misfortunes and hardships behind us, and soldier on to a brighter tomorrow with new hopes and aspirations,” Liew added.
Wishing all Malaysians Gong Xi Fa Cai.
