The Lunar New Year is officially a mere two weekends away – a marvellous festival of auspiciousness, this significant time in the Chinese calendar beckons a fresh beginning. While celebrants busy themselves with searching for the best reunion dinner menus and stylish ways to preen themselves, it is crucial for the gifts to be remembered as well. With the tradition of gifting usually associated with money-filled ang pows (red packets), the joy of giving seamlessly extends to other thoughtful presents too.
As you begin to work through the gift lists in anticipation of the new year, here are some items to have axed out that are believed to represent unluckiness. Handkerchiefs, for instance, are said to symbolise permanent separation. Similarly, sharp objects are seen as representing the severing of ties and should at all costs be avoided. To steer away from gifts that come in sets of four as well as those in the shades of black and white would be a wise choice.
With the reminder on not-gifts aside, let the light shine upon the best gifts to purchase this festive season. Here is our curated medley of the must-haves this Chinese New Year:
Batik Boutique’s ‘Prosperity in Every Detail’
A pioneer in Malaysian batik craftsmanship, Batik Boutique, has joined hands with Grand Hyatt Hotel for an exclusive CNY release. One out of two special gift collections, this set is a testament to the batik’s classic beauty cloaked in luxury. The items found within include a jewellery box adorned with batik-inspired prints, a beautiful functional tote as well as coasters and serviettes which don a unique golden pineapple pattern. For a sweet final touch, the set offers a box of four candied pralines. Batik Boutique
TWG’s Grand Dragon Tea
The newest Grand Dragon Tea by TWG is a limited edition wonder – a carefully-crafted blend highlighting fine green leaves uplifted by notes of sweet-scented mandarin oranges, the tea represents the festival’s vibrance. The lush blend finds itself contained in an emerald green collectible tea tin that is embellished with patterns of the mighty golden dragon. TWG
kate spade’s Dazzling Dragon Wrap Ring
This show-stealing piece effortlessly becomes the accessory of dreams – dressed in gold, the ring takes the shape of a fierce winding dragon. The dragon’s frame is bedecked with faux pearls, asserting the jewellery’s guarantee to take your style game up a notch this new year. kate spade
ROYCE’ Nama Chocolate
Chocolates are positive crowd-favourites – from slabs to cookies, they bring joy to taste buds. In honour of the Chinese New Year, ROYCE’ has produced a season’s special version of its signature Nama Chocolate – Rum. The silky chocolate ganache is the fruit of mixing pure Hokkaido cream, milk chocolate and some redolent rum. A generous layer of cocoa powder rests atop the neatly cut ganache rectangles for an enhanced flavour – sweet-lovers have the celebrations sorted, for sure. ROYCE’
Royal Selangor’s 2024 Year of the Dragon Plaque
With only 1,000 pieces available across the world, this incredible plaque accents a 24K gilded dragon that is sculpted against a recurring wan – a ten thousand years longevity motif. The item draws inspiration from a dragon robe of a Qing Dynasty. As for the red composite resin that the plaque lies upon, nature elements such as waves, clouds and rocks decorate it. The symbolism extends to the plaque’s disc and frame which represent the Chinese notions of heaven’s dome and the earthly plane. Offered with a personalisable engraving plate, this meaningful gift works also as a stunning home décor. Royal Selangor
Pandora’s Two-tone Chinese Year of the Dragon Collier Necklace
The elegant necklace features a dragon pendant in 14k gold plating with ornate details alongside precisely set Cubic Zirconia stones lining the animal’s body. The adjustable chain is made from sterling silver, a subtle yet effective contrast to the striking pendant. Pandora’s newest necklace is a must-wear for those who wish to emulate the dragon’s boldness and power. Pandora
Elevete Patisserie’s ‘Dragon Blessings’
Home of delectable treats, Elevete Patisserie’s seasonal assortment is an indulgent paradise. One of the three offered options is the bakery’s imaginative creation, Dragon’s Blessings. The dessert comprises multiple layers: a crisp coconut feuilletine bed with an airy coconut chiffon sponge, rich pineapple-mango compote and a silky mango and passionfruit mousse. Golden miniature ingots garnish the top as an added touch of good fortune. Elevete
Hennessy’s V.S.O.P Deluxe
Hailed as the brand’s classic cognac, the iconic V.S.O.P. Deluxe is an ideal blend for celebrations. The cognac initially concocted for royalty possesses a versatile taste that makes it a star for all palates. With a smooth and balanced profile, the cognac works like a charm with the Chinese cuisine and will certainly elevate dining sessions. The dazzling limited edition Chinese New Year packaging is artist Yang Yong Liang’s work of art – robed in a fierce red decanter, the cognac sits beside a golden dragon print. Hennessy
Featured image by ROYCE’ Chocolate Malaysia.