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Friday 9 March 2012

Happy Full Moon Celebration Adrian Lim

According to Chinese custom, when a baby turns one month old, a ceremony is held to celebrate her/his first month of life (the Chinese term translates as "full moon"). This coincides with the end of the new mum's confinement period, and both mother and baby are formally introduced to the extended family and friends for the first time.

Before the unveiling party, the baby traditionally undergoes a host of rituals. Once that is over, a party is held to celebrate the
health of the baby. Relatives and friends gather to give their blessings and gifts to the new baby, and traditional treats such as ang ku kueh and red eggs are featured.

Full moon parties today run the gamut from full-fledged catered events, with a buffet spread for guests, to smaller family-only get-togethers. Parents normally host the celebration at home if they have the space, or book and rent a venue (hotel or large restaurant) to accommodate everyone.


Traditional foods: Ang ku kueh and red eggs 

Traditional cakes and eggs, dyed red to symbolise luck and blessings, are given or sent to relatives and friends. Eggs are chosen as they represent fertility and their round shapes symbolise harmony. It is believed that if you have a boy, you give out an odd number of eggs, and if you have a girl, you give out an even number of eggs.

According to word of mouth on
Hokkien tradition, if you have a son, plain round ang ku kuehs (red glutinous peanut cakes) are given out, and if you have a girl, you mould the ang ku into the traditional tortoise moulds, which are more intricate and delicate.

In bigger cities such as Kuala Lumpur, you can now find catering companies, trendy cafes and even bakeries that provide full moon packages. They have a menu according to your budget, but will always include traditional
ang ku and red eggs. Some food options include cakes, chocolate, glutinous rice cakes, cupcakes and pastries. These outfits can even provide deliveries of customised food boxes.


Happy Full Moon



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