KUALA LUMPUR, Jan. 28 -- On January 29, people of Chinese ancestry all around the world will usher in the Year of the Snake, the sixth animal in the zodiac, as they celebrate the Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or in countries with four seasons, the Spring Festival.

This festival is one of the most significant in Chinese culture, symbolising family unity, renewal, and prosperity; and this is reflected in the most important custom - the Reunion Dinner, held on the eve of the actual day.

While many Malaysians might have the impression that all ethnic Chinese are the same, the truth is there are many subgroups with their own distinct language, customs and traditions shaped by their ancestral beliefs, folklore and legends...