News

Stamps Issue Series

Year of the Dragon

15 Januari 2012

Buy now for US $

(1 Sheet Stamps,  1 Souvenir Sheet, 1 Mini Sheet, 1 Presentation Pack, 2 FDC ) exclude shipping charges

Lunar New Year is the most important celebration in the Chinese calendar. Starting on the the first day of the first month and ending on the date of the fifteenth or the full moon, this celebration is also known as the Cap Go Meh.

In Chinese tradition, Chinese New Year is dominated by red, lanterns and fireworks. It is associated with the legend of "Nian" that has rooted in Chinese society. Nian is a man-eater giant that appear in late winter to eat the crops, livestock and people. To protect themselves, the villagers put food on their doorsteps in the hope Nian would eat it and will not attack people, crops and livestock. At oe time, people saw that Nian fled in fear after meeting with a child wearing a red dress. Later, they believed that Nian feared the red color. So, every time a new year to come, people hang red laterns and paper scrolls on windows and doors. They also use fireworks to scare Nian.

In the Gregorian calendar, Chinese New Year falls on different dates each year, between 21 January and 20 February. According to Chinese calendar, this year is the year of water Dragon which began January 23, 2012 and ending February 9, 2013. The twelve Chinese zodiacs is a cycle in the Chinese calendar is taken from animals ranging from Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Chicken, Dog and Pig. Dragon zodiac is the only mythical creature.

Referring to Chinese belief the Dragon symbolized an idealistic, perfectionist, extrovert, very aggressive and determined zodiac. In accordance with the character of the Dragon, the year 2012 in Chinese astrology is believed to bring about change. However, in contrast with the element of earth, metal, wood or fire, the water element that affects the Dragon is calm. Consequently, the change in 2012 is more strategic.

The Water Dragon has a balance of logic and creativity that will drive environmental awareness as well as the ability to serve and put aside ego for the good of all. Viewed from a global perspective, the year of 2012 became the momentum to limit global warning and give great attention to health, social inequality and world hunger. It is a hope and challenge.