My Chinese New Year Celebration in Brunei

My Chinese New Year celebration in Brunei is memorable. I would like to attribute everything to providence.

For the first time in her life, Mum was able to celebrate the annual festival in a place entirely hers. Eleven months ago , the government of Brunei had granted her 15-year-long application to own a house under its National Housing Scheme for Landless Indigenous Citizens.The God-bestowed gift has boosted her confidence and strengthened her faith in him.

Pa, thanks for taking all of us to Brunei for the blissful celebration. Though you were the quietest, your love spoke the loudest in each of our hearts. I have always been proud of you.

The presence of Yan Yee, Pa and Mum's first and only grandchild, added more significance to the festive occasion. My youngest brother Weng Weng and his wife Cosyn had brought her all the way from Kuala Lumpur to Brunei to share their infectious family joy with us. Her babyish chuckles, cries and antics brought warmth to everyone's heart.

Yin, my eldest sister , had always busied herself cleaning the house and cooking for the family. Without her, Mum's house would not have been that homey and spick and span. Her vegetable spring rolls were a hit among friends and relatives. A strong believer in Christ, she always reminds me that anything done straight from the heart brings true joy and peace.

Mum's Muslim neighbours are truly friendly, gracious and generous. They always help her to water plants and cut grass. On new year eve, they gave us three large trays of cakes, Laksa and canned drinks. I am touched by their gesture.

My uncles and aunties made our two-day stay an animated one with their tittle-tattles and jokes. The house was buzzing with their excited chatters from day to night.

Have a blessed Chinese New Year, everyone.