MyStory

The traditional practice of elders handing out red packets of money, otherwise known as Hong Bao, to the single juniors, during Chinese New Year, traditionally manages to incite contrasting emotions amongst Singaporeans. While the young and unmarried delight in receiving the Hong Baos, married adults generally experience the uncomfortable sinking feeling of dread every time the New Year is in the offing.

However, some Singaporeans manage to overcome their somewhat dire monetary situation by admiring and collecting the beautiful Hong Bao, sans cash of course. Often handed out by banks, companies and institutions, typical Hong Bao designs include that of Chinese calligraphy, fish, flowers and respective animals from the Chinese Zodiac. Often, the more enthusiastic collectors would purchase numerous albums to display their diligently amassed Hong Bao.

At the height of Hong Bao collecting popularity, there would be regular Hong Bao exchanges at Community Centres or Clubs where collectors could go and rummage for rare and exquisite finds. Some attain extreme satisfaction from this hobby which thankfully, hardly incurs any costs.

Appreciation for aesthetic beauty; a roving eye for unique designs; the boldness to bug others for Hong Bao and a relentless desire to expand one’s collection, are the only qualities required for this rewarding hobby

Article migrated from original My Story Portal 2007.
Author. Mantou28