TheStar Online (January 20, 2009)
GEORGE TOWN: It is that time of the year again when the Chinese community “bribes” the Zhao Kun Gong or the Kitchen God with sweet sticky cake - nian gao.
This is because he will be making a trip to heaven and report on households’ activities to the Jade Emperor.
Many families prayed and made offerings yesterday when the Kitchen God made his way back to heaven.
Steeped in tradition: Heng offering nian gao, sweets and oranges to the Kitchen God at her home in Penang Monday. Homemaker Heng Chin Bee, 48, said her family prayed and offered to the deity sweets, mandarin oranges and nian gao to ensure he gives a good report to the Jade Emperor.
“And in turn, the Jade Emperor will bless the family abundantly,” she said at her home at the Kedah Road housing complex.
Heng said she has taught her children the tradition of sending off the deity.
“It is an old tradition and even though the younger generation is very modern, I make sure they know the history of this important tradition,” she said.
Heng added that they will be receiving the deity back into their home on the fourth day of Chinese New Year.
