While many Chinese families spend the first day of Chinese New Year visiting relatives, one Terengganu family does something a little extra.
In a TikTok video that has since garnered over 26,000 likes, a Malaysian man showed how his family in Dungun celebrates CNY by hosting an open house for their Muslim friends.
Balik kampung to Dungun on first day of CNY
Speaking to WeirdKaya, he shared that the video was taken on the first day of Chinese New Year, 17 Feb 2026.
“Normally on the first day of Chinese New Year, we will balik to Dungun,” he said in the clip, referring to his mother’s hometown.
He explained that the video was simply to show how Chinese families in Terengganu celebrate the festive season.
Welcoming Muslim friends with a Pantai Timur style feast
Instead of the usual CNY staples like yee sang and bak kwa, the spread featured dishes that would make any East Coast foodie happy.
Guests were treated to satay, nasi minyak, nasi kunyit and even nasi dagang served from large insulated containers lined with banana leaves.
Rows of Muslim friends and their families could be seen seated at round tables, enjoying the food together under red lantern decorations hung outside the house.
The open house, however, is not a one off event.
He clarified that the gathering has actually been hosted by his cousin for many years.
I can’t really remember since when,” he said, adding that it has long been a family tradition.
Food prepared by Malay staff
As for the cooking, he explained that the dishes were prepared and cooked by his cousin’s Malay staff.
This ensures that their Muslim guests can dine comfortably and enjoy the celebration without worry.
“Malaysia is unique and beautiful”
When asked what message he hopes netizens would take away from the video, he kept it simple.
“Malaysia is a unique and beautiful country where people of different races live in harmony and celebrate festivals together.”
His video has since drawn praise from netizens, with many commenting that states like Terengganu and Kelantan are shining examples of unity.
