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15 Ceremonial Practices and 6 Relocation Taboos for Settling into a New Home in Malaysia

Moving into a New Home in Malaysia: The Rituals and Taboos

So, you’ve received the keys to your new home and finished the renovations. Before you decide on a moving day, have you considered the cultural practices surrounding moving into a new home?

In Chinese traditions, moving to a new house is known as “Joy of Relocation”. It’s a significant life event, and it’s essential to conduct certain ceremonies to bring forth prosperity and wellness. Alongside, there are specific feng shui aspects to consider to ensure peace and positive energy in the house.

From a feng shui perspective, the energy differs from month to month. Hence, it’s crucial to pick an auspicious day for the move. Such a day ensures prosperity and a harmonious life for the family.

While some might view these as superstitions, each ritual and custom carries positive symbolism and hopes for a bright future. Let’s delve into these practices and taboos for moving into a new home.

Selecting the Right Time for Moving into Your New Home in Malaysia

The moving ceremony can vary based on religion, region, cultural practices, personal preferences, and property feng shui. The first step, however, remains universal: choosing an auspicious date and time. For instance, according to the lunar calendar, some months like the 3rd (Qingming Festival) and 7th (Ghost Festival) are often avoided.

How to Choose the Perfect Moving Day?

Traditionally, we refer to the “Tong Sheng” – a comprehensive almanac used by the Chinese community. It provides a guide on auspicious dates, seasonal changes, and daily dos and don’ts. When you open the “Tong Sheng”, you’ll find sections indicating suitable days for relocation and setting up the bed. These are the days perfect for moving in and settling down.

Check out our lucky date calendar to move in house in 2023.

What to Do Before and On the Moving Day?

Once you’ve decided on the date, it’s time to prepare:

  1. Clean the house thoroughly.
  2. Set up significant furniture, especially the bed, before the ceremony.
  3. Ensure pairs for utensils like bowls and chopsticks, symbolizing completeness.
  4. Prepare essential kitchen items like rice, oil, salt, sauce, vinegar, and tea.
  5. Fill the rice container to about 80%.
  6. Get new bins, brooms, and dustpans.
  7. Conduct a house purification ceremony.
  8. Turn on all lights in the house.
  9. Open all windows and doors to allow the flow of positive energy.

Moving Day Rituals and Customs

On the day:

  1. Hang red banners on your door.
  2. Turn on all lights, fans, and TVs (preferably showing festive programs).
  3. As a family, step over a lit stove placed at the entrance.
  4. Enter the house holding auspicious items.
  5. Prepare a pot of sweet rice balls, symbolizing unity and prosperity.

Essential Points to Remember During the Housewarming Ceremony

Remember:

  • Don’t look back once inside.
  • Hold auspicious items while entering.
  • Avoid disagreements or quarrels.
  • Sharp objects should not be the first items brought in.
  • Try not to move in during the night.
  • Do not stay overnight or cook before the official housewarming.

A Simple New Home Settling Process

To sum it up:

  • Choose an auspicious date and time, considering family members’ zodiac signs.
  • Clean the house to purify the energy.
  • Carry out the purification ceremony.
  • Prepare essentials in the kitchen.
  • Set up primary furniture and appliances.
  • Keep all lights on for three days and nights before moving in.
  • Commence the housewarming ceremony.
  • Host a small gathering or party.
  • Keep lights on during the first night.

Remember, while these traditions can bring positive vibes, the most important thing is the happiness and well-being of your family in the new home.