GEORGE TOWN, Feb. 17 -- With the month of Ramadan coinciding with Chinese New Year this year, the festive season has revived memories of "Kongsi Raya" for Shahril Cheah, who recalls celebrating both occasions together about 30 years ago.

Chinese New Year celebrations are normally a lively affair for Shahril and his wife, Sharidah Talib, with their families coming together for large gatherings.

"When I first got married, Chinese New Year and Hari Raya coincided the following year, and 'Kongsi Raya' was celebrated all over the country," Shahril recalled,adding that this was in the late 1990s.

"It was very busy, but also a fun time," he added.

He said that back thenthey would have the Chinese New Year reunion dinner after buka puasa (bre...