2021: The Ultimate Guide To Ang Pow Giving [Infographic]

Written by Iris Lee Illustration by Michelle Leong

While this year’s Lunar New Year will be very different for all of us, some traditions remain the same, like giving and receiving ang pow.

Whether you plan to go the e-angpow route or prefer to stick to the traditional red packet, one thing is for sure. If you are new to this ang pow giving business, you’ll definitely need some help to avoid any social faux pas.

Giving ang pow has long been a Chinese tradition, even for events like weddings, birthdays and baby’s full moons (these are different stories all together). Though it is a gift and there is no obligation in the amount you are giving, we are humans, and humans tend to complicate things than it should it.

Peer pressure can put a spin on things, especially if you are new to this and start feeling the heat once you see how much other couples are dishing out. If you are a new parent, keeping tabs on how much your friends and relatives are giving your kid may cause you to reconsider the amounts you had planned to give out as well.

For me, I believe that the amounts you decide to give in your red packet should be entirely up to the giver. The amount usually varies based on the closeness of relationship, and most importantly your ability.

However, with the rising cost of living, I don’t foresee an ang pow inflation next year. In fact, the amount will likely shrink, because every ringgit you save will go a long way in today’s economy.

I may not be a pro at this yet, but I have a few years of experience under my belt and this ang pow guide sums up the tips I’ve picked up over the years.

May you have a wonderful time giving and receiving ang pow with plenty of auspicious blessings that come with it.

Here’s wishing all our readers a safe, healthy and prosperous Year of the Metal Ox!

This article was first published in 2015 and has been updated for freshness, accuracy and comprehensiveness.