GEORGE TOWN: Disappointed that they could not make it home to celebrate New Year, a few university friends decided to spend their New Year's eve together here.
Universiti Sains Malaysia third-year English Literature student Arrantxa Belynda, 22, said this is her first time celebrating New Year away from home.
"I am from Miri, Sarawak and I have never missed a New Year celebration at home.
"I usually celebrate at home with my family.
"We will have family gatherings and I will have a meal with my grandparents.
"Sadly, I could not celebrate Christmas and New Year at home this year.
"Luckily, I get to celebrate with my coursemates here.
"In the new year, I hope to be happier and healthier," she said when met at Hin Bus Depot in George Town.
Camellia Caynui, 22, who is also from Miri, Sarawak, said this is her longest time away from home.
"I came to Penang two months ago and this is the first time I'm away from home for the festivity.
"My family has been video calling me as well as sending pictures to me.
"That made me cry because I could not be home.
"I miss all the delicious home-cooked food," she said, adding that her wishes for 2023 are to get good grades and be healthier and happier.
As for Jack Tan, 22, from Teluk Intan, Perak, this is also his first year away from home for New Year celebrations.
"This is indeed a new experience for me.
"I used to celebrate New Year's eve with my friends from high school in my hometown.
"For the past two years, we had been studying from home so I only met my coursemates virtually.
"This is the first time I'm celebrating with my coursemates physically," he said.
Tan quipped that he hoped to end his single life in 2023.
After a muted New Year for the past two years, many people were seen celebrating at the Esplanade as well as at the heritage enclave, especially Chulia Street and Love Lane.
