These snakes don’t bite: With Lunar New Year 2025 marking the arrival of the Year of the Wood Snake, Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur has put up giant cartoon snake sculptures with the year ‘2025’ to attract visitors for photo opportunities. — ART CHEN/The Star
PETALING JAYA: Despite what people think, the snake zodiac sign has many positive traits.In addressing common misconceptions about the snake zodiac, Han Culture Centre Malaysia president Datuk Goh Hin San said in Chinese culture, snakes and turtles are symbols of longevity.
Besides that, the snake also symbolises luck, fertility and wealth.
“Hence, people often refer to snakes as ‘little dragons’ and a sign of respect,” he added.
According to The Legend of the White Snake, Goh said snakes also represent the pursuit of love and happiness.
“Moreover, snakes are related to medicine and the medical profession. In Chinese folklore, snakes are believed to be able to identify medicinal herbs,” he said in an interview yesterday.
Goh said the Malaysia Zodiac Snake Association, founded in 1997, is the only zodiac association in the country for those born in the Year of the Snake.
The association, he added, was awarded ‘the First Malaysian Chinese Zodiac Snake Society’ by the Malaysia Book of Records in 2013.
“All members have been actively contributing to economic, cultural, educational and charitable work in the Chinese community,” he said.
Goh urged people to look beyond the negative traits associated with snakes and understand its significance in the Chinese zodiac.
“My son got married last year, and I’m hoping he and his wife would have a ‘little dragon’ baby this year. The misconception should change,” he said.
Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) president Tan Sri Goh Tian Chuan also said snakes are considered little dragons that have an important place in Chinese mythology.
However, he called for a balanced perspective and advised people not to be overly superstitious.
“Let’s have a positive, rational approach to keeping these traditions alive,” he said.
Following higher birth rates in the Year of the Dragon, Goh said many couples see the Year of the Snake as a time to “take a break” before welcoming more children in the coming Year of the Horse, which is more favourable.
“As time goes by, we must retain good traditions and discard outdated elements,” he said, urging the Chinese community to embrace both tradition and modernity as they prepare for the upcoming zodiac years.
Feng shui and geomancy consultant Prof Joe Choo Sook Lin said the snake year is not inherently inauspicious.
“Its energy is characterised by introspection, wisdom and strategy. Concerns often arise because the snake’s secretive and cautious traits are misunderstood.
“Instead of fearing the snake’s reputed mystery, look at it as a year for deep planning, careful decision-making and thoughtful growth.
“Not everyone will experience the same energy.
“How the year impacts you depends on your bazi (destiny chart), zodiac sign and personal life condition,” she said.
In Chinese culture, Choo said the snake symbolises intelligence and mystery, embodying the skill to navigate life’s challenges.
“Its shedding skin represents renewal, growth and transformation, linked to personal and spiritual growth.
“Each Year of the Snake aligns with one of five elements – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water.
“Predominantly associated with Yin energy, the snake reflects introspection and tranquillity, and is associated with grace and elegance.
“Those born in the Year of the Snake are admired for their intellect and strategic thinking, often emerging as leaders or advisers.
“Though their secretive nature can make them seem aloof, their elegance and thoughtfulness make them captivating in social and professional spheres,” she said.From a feng shui perspective, Choo urged those born in the Year of the Snake to embrace their positive traits by aligning their environment with the principles of energy flow, harmony and balance.
