Tag Archives: Celebration

Did Joe Biden Ban Religious-Themed Easter Eggs?!

Did US President Joe Biden ban religious-themed Easter eggs, and Christian symbols at the White House Easter egg roll?! Take a look at the viral claims, and find out what the facts really are!

 

Claim : Joe Biden Banned Religious-Themed Easter Eggs!

Some people are claiming or suggesting that US President Joe Biden banned religious-themed Easter eggs, and Christian symbols at the White House Easter egg roll!

Kristi Noem : Biden and the Democrats decided Easter – the Holy Day of our Savior’s Resurrection – as transgender day of visibility. There is no length Biden and the Democrats won’t go to to mock your faith, and to thumb his nose at God.

Rep Andy Biggs : “Devout Catholic” Joe Biden banned religious symbols from the White House’s Easter egg art contest. He’s recognizing Easter as Trans Day of Visibility instead of one of the holiest days on the Christian calendar.

Recommended : Did Joe Biden Just Cancel Easter In The United States?!

 

Truth : Joe Biden Did Not Ban Religious-Themed Easter Eggs!

This appears to be yet another example of fake news created or promoted by right-wing American and Christian conservatives, and here are the reasons why…

Fact #1 : Joe Biden Did Not Ban Religious-Themed Easter Eggs!

This is really silly, but let me just point out that US President Joe Biden did not ban religious-themed Easter eggs in the White House Easter Egg art contest, or at the White House Easter Egg Roll.

What these right-wing American and Christian conservatives are apparently so outraged about is a flyer (PDF) calling for children in National Guard families to submit artwork for Easter eggs. Selected designs would then be painted onto real hen eggs by talented egg artists and displayed at the White House.

The flyer called for children to draw a “snapshot of their life“, but asked that their artwork must not contain include “questionable content, religious symbols, overtly religious themes, or partisan political statements“.

However, those submission guidelines have nothing to do with Joe Biden, Jill Biden, or the Biden Administration.

Fact #2 : Easter Egg Art Rules Set By American Egg Board

The eggs for the White House Easter Egg Roll event, as well as the Easter Egg art contest, are all sponsored by the American Egg Board. It is the American Egg Board that created those rules as the Sponsor.

It is clearly stated in the flyer that the Sponsor (American Egg Board) decides on the guidelines, and decides on the submissions.

[The] Sponsor, in its sole discretion, may remove any Submission and disqualify an entrant if it believes, in its sole discretion, that the entrant’s Submission fails to conform to the Guidelines and Restrictions.

In addition, the flyer also states that participants will grant the Sponsor (American Egg Board), the right to use their artwork, and collect their personal data. It also referred participants to the American Egg Board’s privacy policy.

In short, the White House Easter Egg art contest rules were issued by the American Egg Board, not Joe Biden, Jill Biden, or the Biden Administration.

Recommended : Are Soldiers Protecting Trump Properties From Seizure?!

Fact #3 : Those Rules Were Used For Last 45 Years!

What’s even more damning is the fact that the non-discrimination language used in the American Egg Board flyer has been used for the last 45 years, across many administrations both Republican and Democrat.

After many right-wing American and Christian conservatives vented their bile on social media, White House Deputy Assistant to President Joe Biden, Elizabeth Alexander, pointed out this hypocrisy:

Fyi on all the misleading swirl re White House and Easter: the American Egg Board flyer’s standard non-discrimination language requesting artwork has been used for the last 45 years, across all Dem & Republican Admins—for all WH Easter Egg Rolls —incl previous Administration’s.

If those right-wing American and Christian conservatives did not find them offensive the previous 44 years, So why the outrage this year???

Fact #4 : This Is Just Joe Biden Fake News

This is ultimately just another example of fake news created about Joe Biden, like these other examples:

Please help us FIGHT FAKE NEWS by sharing this fact check article out, and please SUPPORT our work!

 

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He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

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Did Joe Biden Just Cancel Easter In The United States?!

Did US President Joe Biden just cancel Easter in the United States?! Take a look at the viral claims, and find out what the facts really are!

Updated @ 2024-03-31 : Added new claims and details
Originally posted @ 2024-03-30

 

Claim : Joe Biden Just Cancelled Easter In The United States!

Some people are claiming or suggesting that US President Joe Biden just cancelled Easter in the United States!

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene : Biden and the Democrats decided Easter – the Holy Day of our Savior’s Resurrection – as transgender day of visibility. There is no length Biden and the Democrats won’t go to to mock your faith, and to thumb his nose at God.

Hodgetwins : Biden just announced that Sunday is now tranny day 🤣

I guess Easter is cancelled this year

Recommended : Is Prince Harry Involved In Diddy Sex Trafficking Lawsuit?!

 

Truth : Joe Biden Did Not Cancel Easter In The United States!

This appears to be yet another example of fake news created or promoted by right-wing American and Christian conservatives, and here are the reasons why…

Fact #1 : Joe Biden Did Not Cancel Easter In The United States

This is silly, but let me just point out that US President Joe Biden did not cancel Easter in the United States.

In fact, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden are hosting the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll on Easter Monday, 1 April 2024 – a tradition that dates back to 1878.

The theme this year is “EGGucation” as announced by the White House on March 28, 2024:

Today, the White House announced the full program of activities for the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll, a tradition dating back to 1878.  A teacher for more than 30 years, First Lady Jill Biden is continuing her theme of “EGGucation” for the event, transforming the South Lawn and Ellipse into a school community, full of fun educational activities for children of all ages to enjoy. 

In addition to the time-honored traditions of rolling and hunting eggs, this year’s White House Easter “EGGucation” Roll will also feature a School House Activity Area, Reading Nook, Field Trip to the Farm, Picture Day, a Physical “EGGucation” Zone, a Snack Time Tent and more. The South Façade of the White House will be adorned with balloons, marked with STEAM school subjects, a nod to Dr. Biden’s belief that with EGGucation, “all students can soar.”

Unsurprisingly, none of those making this ridiculous claim actually provided any evidence that the Biden Administration cancelled Easter in the United States.

Recommended : Are Soldiers Protecting Trump Properties From Seizure?!

Fact #2 : Joe Biden / Democrats Did Not Create Transgender Day!

Instead of providing evidence that Joe Biden actually cancelled Easter, these conspiracists share screenshots of Joe Biden’s 2024 Proclamation on Transgender Day of Visibility. #eyeroll

Joe Biden is the first American president to issue a formal proclamation. However, neither Joe Biden, nor the Democrats, created the Transgender Day of Visibility!

The International Transgender Day of Visibility is an annual event that occurs on every March 31, since it started in 2009. It was created by transgender activist Rachel Crandall of Michigan, not Joe Biden, or the Democratic Party.

Fact #3 : Easter Occurs On Different Day Every Year!

Unlike the Transgender Day of Visibility, Easter is not celebrated on a fixed date. Instead, Easter falls on a Sunday between 22 March and 25 April, after the astronomical full moon.

Only in 2024 does Easter coincide with Transgender Day of Visibility – on March 31, 2024. However, that does not mean Transgender Day of Visibility is cancelling out Easter.

These people do not appear to understand that two (or more) celebrations can occur on the same day. Either that, or they think you are really easy to fool…

Fact #4 : Joe Biden Issued Similar Proclamation In Past Years

I should also point out that President Biden first proclaimed March 31 as a Transgender Day of Visibility in 2021, and did so in 2022 and 2023 as well. He did not intentionally declare 31 March 2024 as the Transgender Day of Visibility to mock Christians.

This isn’t something new or exceptional for Joe Biden. He has issued a proclamation for every Transgender Day of Visibility every year of his presidency. If Easter did not get cancelled in 2021, 2022, and 2023, his 2024 proclamation certainly wouldn’t cancel Easter either!

Recommended : Was Kate Middleton murdered + replaced with body double?!

Fact #5 : Joe Biden Celebrated Easter In Previous Years

Finally, I should point out that Joe Biden is a devout Catholic, and has been celebrating Easter every year, so he would never mock Easter as many people are claiming.

We also know that both President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden hosted the White House Easter Egg Roll the past two years – in 2022, and 2023. They only skipped it in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

If the Bidens have been celebrating Easter in the past, why would anyone falsely claim that they are cancelling Easter this year??? Isn’t lying a sin in Christianity???

Fact #6 : This Is Just Joe Biden Fake News

This is ultimately just another example of fake news created about Joe Biden, like these other examples:

Please help us FIGHT FAKE NEWS by sharing this fact check article out, and please SUPPORT our work!

 

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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

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Kennedy family snubs RFK Jr. in St. Patrick’s Day photo with Biden!

The Kennedy family openly snubbed RFK Jr. when it posted a St. Patrick’s Day photo with President Joe Biden at the White House!

 

Kennedy family snubs RFK Jr. in St. Patrick’s Day photo with Biden!

The Kennedy family has largely been against the independent bid for the US Presidency by their infamous family member, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., which is also known as RFK Jr.

Several members of the family have openly spoken out against his candidacy, and his anti-vaccine views, calling them “dangerous”. To make it clear that the Kennedy family supports Joe Biden in his bid to be re-elected for a second term, almost the entire Kennedy family joined the president for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration at the White House on Sunday, 17 March 2024.

In an open snub to her own brother – RFK Jr., Kerry Kennedy posted a photo showing dozens of the Kennedy family taking a photo with Joe Biden, with this message.

“It’s not enough to wish the world were better, you must make the world better”

@POTUS President Biden, you make the world better. Happy St. Patrick’s Day ☘️

@vradenburg3 @Mkennedycuomo @vickikennedy2277 @amykennedy715 @pjk4brainhealt @roryekennedy
@maxeykennedy

The photo featured former Rhode Island congressman Patrick J. Kennedy, Ambassador Caroline Kennedy, Biden’s special envoy to Northern Ireland Joe Kennedy III, as well as Kennedy family members of all ages… except RFK Jr. himself.

Recommended : Did Joe Biden Just Propose To Start Vaccinating America?!

Other members of the family then reshared the photo on their social media accounts, making it clear that they support Joe Biden, and not their infamous family member – RFK Jr.

Patrick Kennedy even tweeted additional photos, writing:

What an honor to spend St. Patrick’s Day afternoon at the @WhiteHouse with friends, family, and world leaders @POTUS , His Excellency @LeoVaradkar and many cousins – Smiths, Shrivers, and Kennedys!
We are blessed.”

Joe Biden himself retweeted Kerry Kennedy’s post, with the reply, “From one proud Irish family to another — it was good to have you all back at the White House.

 

 

Maria Shriver Snubs RFK Jr. The Next Day!

In the second of a one-two punch against RFK Jr., Maria Shriver – another member of the Kennedy family, joined President Joe Biden the next day for his signing of a new executive order to spend $$12 billion to improve research on women’s issues like reproductive challenges and conditions like menopause.

At that White House event which was also attended by First Lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Maria Shriver called the executive order historic, and praised Biden profusely for his commitment to women’s health in an obvious snub of RFK Jr., and joked:

I’ll bet today that this is the first time a president of the United States has ever signed an executive order that mentions the words ‘menopause’ and ‘women’s mid-life health!’

Shriver even threw a veiled jab at former President Donald Trump, when she said:

This is an undertaking that could only be put into a motion by a president who respects women sees women who understands women and who want the best for women who wants us all to achieve our highest potential.

Recommended : Did Joe Biden Teach The 2nd Amendment For 12 Years?!

Biden’s executive order comes at a time when women’s health issues are dominating politics, with several states adopting anti-abortion laws that have threatened even unrelated reproductive issues like IVF.

Just before he signed the executive order, Joe Biden repeated his call for people to vote for a Democratic Congress to restore abortion rights:

You send me a Democratic Congress that supports reproductive freedom, I promise you we will restore Roe v Wade again as the law of the land.

Biden’s executive order goes beyond reproductive health issues. It also includes federal funding of research into mental health, substance abuse disorders, environmental health factors, and autoimmune diseases that disproportionately affect women, like rheumatoid arthritis.

The National Institutes of Health, for example, will increase its investments in small businesses that focus on women’s health by 50%, while the Defense Department will invest $10 million to learn more about cancers and mental health issues affecting women in active military service.

The US NIH is also launching a new effort around menopause and the treatment of menopausal symptoms that will identify research gaps and work to close them, according to White House advisor Jennifer Klein. However, this funding isn’t guaranteed as it is ultimately up to the US Congress to approve it.

 

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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

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Malaysia : Free Highway Tolls For Christmas 2023!

The government of Malaysia just announced free highway tolls for two days for Christmas 2023! Here is what you need to know!

 

Malaysia : Free Highway Tolls For Christmas 2023!

On Thursday, 21 December 2023, Malaysia Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan announced free highway tolls for two days:

  • Saturday, 23 December 2023
  • Tuesday, 26 December 2023

The toll-free travel will apply to all types of vehicles travelling on all highways in Malaysia, except the toll plazas at the national borders in Johor:

  • the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) Toll Plaza
  • the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza

The toll-free period will begin at 12:01 AM and end at 11:59 PM on the two days – Saturday, 23 December 2023, and Tuesday, 26 December, 2023.

An estimated 2.1 million vehicles are expected to use the highways during the Christmas 2023 season, with the free toll costing the government RM20 million per day, for a total cost of RM40 million.

Recommended : 2024 Public + School Holidays For Malaysia!

It is hoped that this toll waiver will reduce the burden on those who are planning to return to their home towns to visit their families and celebrate Christmas together.

This is in line with the intention of the unity government to help ease the burden of the people across the religious diversity and beliefs

Highway users should take advantage of this opportunity and plan their journeys as best as possible while observing the recommended travel time advisory schedule.

He said that the dates were chosen to avoid traffic congestion, and optimise logistics. He also advised highway users to observe the safety limits, signages, and regulations.

 

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Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

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Selangor Civil Servants Get Extra Hari Raya Haji Holiday!

The Selangor state government just announced an extra Hari Raya Haji holiday for civil servants!

 

Selangor Civil Servants Get Extra Hari Raya Haji Holiday!

On Tuesday, 27 June 2023, the Selangor State Secretary Datuk Hari Karim announced an additional Hari Raya Haji holiday on Friday, June 30, in addition to the existing holiday on Thursday, June 29.

However, this additional Hari Raya Haji holiday will only apply to civil servants in the Selangor state’s departments, agencies, and local authorities.

Government subsidiaries (GLCs) and private companies are not subject to this directive. It will be up to each respective employer to decide whether to grant their employees an additional Hari Raya Haji holiday.

Statutory bodies, government subsidiaries and private parties, however, are not subject to this directive and are left to the discretion of their respective employers under the Employment Act 1955 (Act 265).

The additional day would grant those lucky enough to receive it a long 4-day weekend, in line with the 2023 school holidays.

This would likely result in heavy traffic on the highways as people take this opportunity to return to their hometowns to celebrate Hari Raya Haji with their families.

Recommended : 2023 Public + School Holidays For Malaysia!

 

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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

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Scam Alert : Nespresso 2022 Mother’s Day Contest!

Please watch out for the Nespresso 2022 Mother’s Day contest scam!

Find out why it is just a SCAM, and WARN your family and friends!

 

Scam Alert : Nespresso 2022 Mother’s Day Contest!

People are now sharing the Nespresso 2022 Mother’s Day Contest scam on WhatsApp :

Nespresso 2022 Mother’s Day Contest

5,000 free coffee machines for your Mother!

 

Nespresso 2022 Mother’s Day Contest : Why This Is A Scam!

Many of us are in dire straits during this COVID-19 pandemic, having lost jobs, income or even loved ones.

Unfortunately, scammers are counting on our desperation to prey on us, using the same survey scam they have been using for years :

Unfortunately, this Nespresso contest is yet another SCAM that you should NEVER participate in!

  1. After you click on the link, you are taken to a page that looks like a genuine Nespresso contest page.
  2. You will be asked to answer three very simple questions.
    The answers are irrelevant – no matter what you answer, you are always allowed to proceed to the next step.
  3. You are then asked to share the promotion with 30 WhatsApp contacts, or 5 WhatsApp groups.
  4. Next, you will be asked to complete one of these tasks to receive the “free” Nespresso coffee machine :
    a) install an app, which is really a malware to send you advertisements, or
    b) enter your credit card details
    Needless to say – proceeding with this step will open you up to great risk of monetary loss. DO NOT PROCEED!
  5. If you install their malware, you will start receiving promotions, some of which will ask you to send an SMS to receive expensive free gifts like laptops and smartphones.
    If you proceed to send the confirmation SMS messages, you will be subscribed and billed for international premium SMS services.

So never click on such contest links, even if they were sent to you by a trusted relative or friend.

They would have certainly been fooled by the scam, so please warn them too!

 

How To Spot Scams Like The Nespresso Survey Contest!

Now, let me show you how to spot these scams next time!

If you spot any of these warning signs, DO NOT PROCEED and DO NOT SHARE!

Warning Sign #1 : Bad Grammar

Most of these scammers do not have a good command of the English language, so if you spot bad grammar, stay away.

Proper contests or events sponsored by major brands like Nespresso will have at least one PR or marketing person who will vet the text before allowing it to be posted.

Read more : Watch Out For Nestle 2022 Anniversary Phishing Scam!

Warning Sign #2 : Offering You Free Money Or Gifts

Please do NOT be naive. No one is going to give you money or free gifts just to participate in a survey!

Petronas isn’t going to give you FREE money, just because it’s their anniversary.

They are a corporation whose business is to make money, not a charity to give you free money.

Warning Sign #3 : Not Using The Real Jaya Grocer Domain

A genuine Petronas campaign would use their real domain – www.petronas.com.

Or they would run it off the official Petronas page on Facebook – www.facebook.com/petronas/.

If you see nonsensical domains like 0yjjg61.cn, 1eaf1rnbeef.top, ldxqw.bar, etc. that’s a sign of a SCAM!

Warning Sign #4 : Asking You To Forward The Offer

No brand will insist that you must share the offer with 5 groups or 20 friends on WhatsApp.

Do not click to forward their offer to your family and friends. They will not appreciate being scammed with your help!

Warning Sign #5 : Asking You To Download + Register An App

If you click through and joined the fake survey scam, you will eventually be asked to download and register for an app.

This is VERY DANGEROUS. Never agree to download and register for any unknown app from a website.

Always download your apps from an official App Store like Google Play Store (for Android smartphones) and Apple App Store (for iPhones).

Please help us fight scams like this and SHARE this article out!

And please WARN your family and friends!

 

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Support my work through a bank transfer /  PayPal / credit card!

Name : Adrian Wong
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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

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30% to 100% Highway Toll Discount For 2022 Aidilfitri Holiday!

The government of Malaysia just announced 30% to 100% highway toll discount for the 2022 Hari Raya Aidilfitri holiday!

Here is what you need to know…

 

30% to 100% Highway Toll Discount For 2022 Aidilfitri Holiday!

On 25 April 2022, the government of Malaysia announced that they came to an agreement with 30 highway concessionaires to offer a 30% to 100% discount on highway toll charges during the 2022 Hari Raya Aidilfitri holiday!

The 30% to 100% discount will only apply to all vehicle classes, on these dates and times :

  • From 12:01 AM on Saturday, 30 April 2022 until 11:59 PM on Sunday, 1 May 2022
  • From 12:01 AM on Saturday, 7 May 2022 until 11:59 PM on Sunday, 8 May 2022

Please note that there is no toll discount from 2 May until 6 May 2022.

 

2022 Aidilfitri Highway Toll Discount : Full List Of Highways

Here is the full list of participating highways :

100% Highway Toll Discount

  1. Lebuhraya Utara Selatan (PLUS)
  2. Lebuhraya Utara Selatan Hubungan Tengah (ELITE)
  3. Lebuhraya Seremban – Port Dickson (SPDH)
  4. Lebuhraya Butterworth – Kulim (BKE)
  5. Laluan Kedua Malaysia Singapura (LINKEDUA)
  6. Jambatan Pulau Pinang (JPP)
  7. Lebuhraya Pantai Timur (LPT) 1
  8. Lebuhraya Pantai Timur (LPT) 2
  9. Lebuhraya KL – Karak (KLK)

50% Highway Toll Discount

  1. Lebuhraya Shah Alam (KESAS)
  2. Lebuhraya Damansara – Puchong (LDP)
  3. Lebuhraya Cheras – Kajang (GRANDSAGA)
  4. Lebuhraya Sungai Besi (BESRAYA)
  5. Lebuhraya Baru Pantai (NPE)
  6. Lebuhraya Bertingkat Ampang – KL (AKLEH)
  7. Lebuhraya KL-Putrajaya (MEX)
  8. Lebuhraya Duta – Ulu Kelang (DUKE)

30% Highway Toll Discount

  1. Projek Pengurusan Air Banjir Dan Terowong (SMART)
  2. Lebuhraya Koridor Guthrie (GUTHRIE)
  3. Lebuhraya KL- Kuala Selangor (LATAR)
  4. Lebuhraya Lingkaran Luar Butterworth (LLB)
  5. Lebuhraya Kemuning – Shah Alam (LKSA)
  6. Lebuhraya Lingkaran Kajang (SILK)
  7. Jambatan Sultan Abdul Halim Muad’zam Shah (JPP2)
  8. Lebuhraya Lembah Klang Selatan (SKVE)
  9. Lebuhraya Skim Penyuraian Trafik KL- Barat (SPRINT)
  10. Lebuhraya Kajang-Seremban (LEKAS)
  11. Lebuhraya Pintas Selat Klang Utara Baru (GRAND SEPADU)
  12. Lebuhraya Senai – Desaru (SDE)
  13. Lebuhraya Persisiran Pantai Barat (WCE)

The cost of these discounts, estimated at RM77.11 million, will be jointly absorbed by the Malaysian government and the concession companies.

 

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Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.

He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.

 

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Updated 2022 Chinese New Year SOP For Malaysia!

The government just updated the official SOP for 2022 Chinese New Year celebrations in Malaysia!

Here is what you need to know!

 

2022 Chinese New Year SOP For Malaysia!

On 19 January 2022, the Ministry of National Unity released the official SOP for 2022 Chinese New Year celebrations in Malaysia!

They also issued two other SOP documents + two infographics with additional SOP, so I compiled all their rules here for your convenience. I will keep updating this article, as and when they issue new “clarifications”.

Here is a video that summarises the key points of the 2022 Chinese New Year SOP for Malaysia.

 

2022 Chinese New Year SOP For Malaysia : 23 January Edition

  1. The Family Reunion Dinner is allowed on Monday, 31 January 2022.
  2. Prayers are allowed in non-Muslim houses of worship on 1 and 2 February 2022 (Tuesday and Wednesday), according to the existing SOP under PPN Phase 4.
  3. The special Hokkien clan prayers (Bai Tian Gong) are allowed on 8 and 9 February 2022 (Tuesday and Wednesday).
    a) Prayers are allowed in non-Muslim houses of worship, according to the existing SOP under PPN Phase 4.
    b) Prayers are allowed at individual house compounds at night, according to the Hokkien clan tradition.
  4. Chap Goh Meh prayers are allowed at non-Muslim houses of worship on Tuesday, 15 February 2022, according to the existing SOP under PPN Phase 4.
  5. You are allowed to visit family and friends from 31 January until 15 February 2022.
  6. Chinese New Year Receptions are allowed from 31 January until 15 February 2022
    a) only those who were explicitly invited are allowed to enter
    b) NOT ALLOWED to members of the public who were not invited
    c) continuous receptions like open houses are NOT ALLOWED
    d) allowed at up to 50% venue capacity, with physical distancing
  7. Chinese New Year receptions by companies or associations are allowed, subject to these restrictions :
    a) held in a hall or restaurant,
    b) limited invitations,
    c) not held in public places, and
    d) cannot be continuous, like an open house
  8. Lion / dragon / tiger dance are allowed from 31 January until 15 February 2022, subject to the Creative Industry (Live Performance) SOP.

The Ministry of National Unity calls on the public to always obey the SOP, and take COVID-19 precautions like wear a face mask, maintain good hygiene and ensure physical distancing.

 

2022 Chinese New Year SOP For Prayers In Malaysia!

Here is the additional SOP for prayer activities at non-Muslim houses of worship during Chinese New Year 2022 :

Non-Muslim Houses of Worship must :

  • Open a health screening counter at the entrance, conduct a body temperature scan and look for symptoms like fever, cough, breathing difficulties and flu.
  • Ensure that only fully-vaccinated people are allowed to enter, by checking their digital COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
  • Make sure everyone is recorded using the MySejahtera application, or registers manually using the logbook.
  • Provide hand sanitiser at the registration counter.
  • Ensure that face masks are worn.

Worshippers attending prayers must :

  • Scan the MySejahtera QR code, or register manually using the provided logbook.
  • Scan their body temperature
  • Use the provided hand sanitiser.
  • Only fully-vaccinated people are allowed to enter.
  • Maintain a physical distance of 1 metre.
  • Must wear a face mask.

The government of Malaysia will take action against those who flout these SOP requirements.

Fully Vaccinated Definition

Under this SOP, you are only considered fully-vaccinated if you meet these requirements :

  • For vaccines that require two doses (like the Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Sinovac or Sinopharm vaccines), the individual must exceed 14 days after receiving the second dose.
  • For vaccines that require only one dose (like the Johnson & Johnson and CanSino vaccines), the individual must exceed 28 days after receiving the second dose.

For individuals who cannot be vaccinated on medical reasons, they must produce a medical report that has been verified by a registered medical practitioner.

 

Latest 2022 Chinese New Year SOP Slides : 20 January Edition

Here are the latest 2022 Chinese New Year SOP slide, as of 20 January 2022.

1 / 8

 

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Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner : Top Questions Answered!

People are still very confused about what’s allowed and not allowed for the Chinese New Year reunion dinner.

Fortunately, MKN just released the answers to the top 5 questions people are asking!

 

Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner : U-Turn After Correction

This year’s announcement on the Chinese New Year reunion dinner SOP was a masterpiece in incompetence.

The original Chinese New Year SOP was widely ridiculed, then corrected before being reversed – all in a matter of days.

Family Reunion Dinner

  • Allowed for one day only, on Thursday, 11 February 2021.
  • Up to 15 close family members may attend.
  • Those family members must live within a radius of 10 kilometres.
  • Cross-district or interstate travel is forbidden.

Even the recent announcement, which we summarised above, was so vague, many people had questions.

 

Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner : Top Questions Answered!

On 8 February 2021, the Malaysia National Security Council (MKN) finally released their answers to our top questions about the Chinese New Year reunion dinner :

Question #1 : Are family reunion dinners allowed?

Yes. Family reunion dinners are ALLOWED for not more than 15 close family members living within a radius of 10 km, without crossing district or state lines.

Question #2 : When are family reunion dinners allowed?

Only on Thursday, 11 February 2021.

Question #3 : If I live within 10 km but in a neighbouring district, can I still attend the family reunion dinner?

No, you are NOT allowed to cross district or state lines.

Question #4 : How many people are allowed to travel to the family reunion dinner in the same car on 11 February 2021?

According to the latest MCO SOP (updated on 4 February 2021), only TWO (2) persons may travel in the same car.

Question #5 : How do you define close family members?

Close family members allowed at the family reunion dinners :

  • husband and wife
  • parents
  • children
  • brothers and sisters

 

Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner : More Changes Expected

This is yet another clarification that brooks more questions than it answers.

Why Two Persons Per Car?

What’s the point of restricting families to only two persons per car?

How does that help prevent the spread of COVID-19? After all, they are from the same family!

All this rule does is force families to drive multiple vehicles to attend the dinner.

Why Forbid Inter-District Travel?

The 10 km limit should be sufficient to restrict travel, even though this really isn’t even enforceable.

Forbidding inter-district travel for the Chinese New Year reunion dinner does not help to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection.

Infected people spread COVID-19 – it doesn’t matter if they travel across districts, or within the district.

Either the government bans the reunion dinner completely, or allow it with inter-district travel. It really doesn’t make any difference.

Close Family Definition Too Vague

The close family definition is still too vague. MKN should have just made it simple and clear by just saying no friends allowed.

Right now, a strict reading of the FAQ means that brothers-in-law or sisters-in-law, cousins, nephews and nieces are not allowed.

We foresee them “clarifying” the definition later, to something simpler and yet more clear-cut like parents, brothers and sisters of the family, including their children.

 

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Chinese New Year U-Turn Invites More Questions!

Malaysia just reversed their Chinese New Year restrictions for the MCO lockdown.

Find out what’s changed, and why this new CNY SOP just invites more questions!

 

Malaysia Reverses Chinese New Year Restrictions!

After their original Chinese New Year restrictions were ridiculed, the Malaysia National Security Council (MKN) corrected and then reversed their decision today.

Here is a summary of what’s NOW allowed for Chinese New Year in Malaysia :

Family Reunion Dinner

  • Allowed for one day only, on Thursday, 11 February 2021.
  • Up to 15 close family members may attend.
  • Those family members must live within a radius of 10 kilometres.
  • Cross-district or interstate travel is forbidden.

Religious Activities

  • Allowed on three days only11, 12 and 19 February 2021.
  • Up to 30 people may be present at any one time.
  • They must all wear face masks, and physically distance.
  • Every prayer session can last up to 30 minutes, and must be followed by sanitation for 30 minutes, before the next prayer session.
  • Prayers can last from 6 AM until 2 PM.
  • Home prayers on the night of 19 February 2021 are allowed for the Hokkien Clan (Pai Ti Kong).

 

Third Chinese New Year SOP : More Questions!

This is the third MCO SOP for Chinese New Year 2021, and may not be the last.

For some reason, the government neglected Chap Goh Meh – the last day of Chinese New Year, which is also a significant date.

If they want to ban Chap Goh Meh celebrations, please state so, and say it clearly.

But even more critically, they did not clarify whether the inter-district or interstate travel restrictions include the Klang Valley.

After all, many areas in the Klang Valley are in close proximity, even if they cross district and state lines.

For example, Damansara Perdana and Mutiara Damansara (which are in Selangor) are right next to TTDI (in Kuala Lumpur), separated only by the LDP highway. Will crossing the state and district lines between these adjoining areas be allowed?

Finally, there’s no mention of whether more than two people are allowed to travel in the same car for the reunion dinner, which 15 people can now attend.

So we expect the government to “further clarify” their Chinese New Year SOP going forward…

Note : MKN just clarified their SOP on Chinese New Year reunion dinners!

 

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Malaysia “Corrects” SOP For Chinese New Year!

Malaysia just issued a “corrected” SOP for Chinese New Year, replacing the original version which was roundly mocked by netizens.

Take a look at this newly “corrected” SOP for Chinese New Year 2021!

MKN just reversed their decision! Please see Malaysia Reverses Chinese New Year Restrictions!

 

Chinese New Year SOP : First Version Was A Joke!

When the Malaysia National Security Council (MKN) announced the Chinese New Year SOP for 2021, it was roundly mocked by netizens for its absurd rules.

For example, it told family members of the same household to visit each other! This meme shows just how absurd the suggestion was.

 

Malaysia “Corrects” SOP For Chinese New Year!

Just one day later, MKN issued a new, “corrected” SOP for Chinese New Year!

  • The SOP now applies for the three days – 11, 12 and 19* February 2021.
  • The family is now asked to celebrate at home, instead of visiting each other in the same house.
  • The family reunion dinner is only allowed for family members residing in the same house.
  • The arbitrary limit of 20 people in the same house, was removed.
  • The ridiculous requirement to physically distance in the household was removed.
  • The absurd prohibition for family members to greet or touch each other was removed.
  • No one is allowed to go to temples and houses of worship.
  • Lion / dragon dance is forbidden.
  • Tanglung and Chingay parades are forbidden.
  • Chinese opera and stage shows are forbidden.
  • Pre-celebration sales are only allowed in selected premises. Online purchase is encouraged.

* 19th February is when Pai Ti Kong (Bai Tian Gong) is celebrated by the Hokkien people.

This strict stay-at-home Chinese New Year SOP will mean that all Chinese families will have to celebrate by themselves, without an actual reunion dinner.

The government should really KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) by banning gatherings and visitations for all 16 days of Chinese New Year – from the eve to Chap Goh Meh.

By only highlighting those 3 days, it opens up the possibility of people misinterpreting the SOP to mean that it’s okay to have reunion dinners or visitations on the other days of Chinese New Year.

Please stay safe, everyone, so that we can celebrate Chinese New Year with our family and friends next year!

 

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Chinese New Year SOP For MCO Lacks Common Sense

The Malaysia National Security Council just announced the MCO SOP for Chinese New Year, and it lacks common sense, or an understanding of Chinese culture.

Take a look at their Chinese New Year SOP, and see for yourself why it really doesn’t make much sense…

 

Chinese New Year : SOP For MCO Areas

Here is the SOP that was just released for the celebration of Chinese New Year in MCO areas – basically all of Malaysia, except Sarawak.

  • The SOP applies for the first two days of Chinese New Year – 12 and 13 February 2021
  • Not more than 20 people are allowed in the house, with physical distancing
  • The family reunion dinner is only allowed for family members residing in the same house.
  • Visitation is only allowed for family members residing in the same house.
  • No one is allowed to greet or touch each other.
  • No one is allowed to go to temples and houses of worship.
  • Lion / dragon dance is forbidden.
  • Tanglung and Chingay parades are forbidden.
  • Chinese opera and stage shows are forbidden.
  • Open houses are forbidden.

Note : This SOP has just been corrected. See Malaysia “Corrects” SOP For Chinese New Year!

 

Chinese New Year SOP For MCO Lacks Common Sense

Now, let us share with you why the Chinese New Year SOP lacks common sense, or an understanding of Chinese culture.

Reason #1 : Chinese New Year Lasts 15 Days

Chinese New Year actually lasts 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival. But in reality, it lasts 16 days, because it actually kicks off on the eve.

But the point is that if the SOP only covers the first two days, then it cannot apply to the Tanglung (Lantern) Festival, which takes place on the last day (15th day) of Chinese New Year!

Neither would the SOP apply to the Chingay Parade, which happens on the 21st day of the Lunar New Year in Johor Bahru, 12 December 2021 in Penang island and 19 December 2021 in Prai, Penang.

Reason #2 : Family Reunion Dinner Is On CNY Eve!

The family reunion dinner happens not on the first or second day of Chinese New Year, but on its eve – the night before!

Technically, Malaysians will not be flouting the SOP if they gather on the eve (11 February 2021) for their family reunion dinner.

Also, it is only a reunion dinner if extended family members attend. Otherwise, it’s just a regular family dinner.

Photo Credit : CGTN

Reason #3 : Chinese New Year Eve Is A Cultural Event

Chinese New Year is a cultural event, not a religious event. It is celebrated by Chinese people of ALL religions, or none at all.

There is no requirement to attend church, visit a temple, or go to a mosque, on Chinese New Year.

So the SOP on religious gatherings or visits is really irrelevant, and shows their lack of understanding.

Reason #4 : Visitation In The Same Home Is Nonsensical

It is nonsensical to tell people living in the same house to visit each other. This probably only happens in Among Us.

Reason #5 : Capacity Limit In The Same House Is Nonsensical

It is also nonsensical to put an arbitrary limit of 20 people, when the SOP insists that they must all be living in the same house!

If they are all living in the same house, why does it matter if there are 5, 20, or 100 people?

Anyone sick with COVID-19 would have infected other members of the family, long before Chinese New Year!

Reason #6 : No Greeting Or Touching Family Members Is Nonsensical

It is nonsensical to insist that family members cannot greet or touch each other, when they are all LIVING IN THE SAME HOUSE!

How is that going to help prevent COVID-19 spread within the same house???

Does the government also expect husband and wife to sleep separately during the first two days of Chinese New Year?

Reason #7 : Physical Distancing In The Same House Is Nonsensical

This should have been obvious to our government officials – physical distancing in the same house is as asinine as physical distancing in a car.

Those living in the same house have already been in close contact for more than a year. How does it help to separate everyone by 1-2 metres for just two days during Chinese New Year?

 

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Fact Check : PDRM Alert On 2021 New Year Eve Celebrations!

Is the PDRM alert about a major operation to target the 2021 New Year Eve celebrations genuine?

Find out what’s going on, and what the facts are!

 

Claim : PDRM Alert On 2021 New Year Eve Celebrations

This warning went out on social media today, warning about a major PDRM operation to target the 2021 New Year Eve celebrations.

Here is the original warning in Bahasa Malaysia, followed by our English translation below :

“PDRM ALERT”

*Operasi Besar-besaran Sempena Sambutan Ambang Tahun Baru 2021
Seluruh Negara

Tarikh: 31.12.2020
Masa: Jam 10 malam hingga jam 2 pagi
Lokasi: Seluruh Negara

Operasi ini melibatkan semua unit Ibu Pejabat Polis Negeri dan Daerah termasuk Balai-Balai Luar, antaranya seperti berikut:-
▪Semua Unit Kereta Peronda (MPV)
▪Semua Pegawai dan Anggota Trafik
▪Unit Rondaan Bermotosikal (URB)
▪Team serbuan dan tangkapan Cawangan Jenayah
▪Team serbuan dan Tangkapan Cawangan Narkotik
▪Risikan Maklumat Cawangan Khas (SB)
▪Team Pemantauan dan Kompoun COVID 19

AMARAN
▪Tidak dibenarkan sebarang Sambutan dan konvoi kenderaan.
▪Tidak dibenarkan sebarang perhimpunan dan pembakaran bunga api.
▪KECUALI yang mendapat kebenaran bertulis dari pihak PDRM setelah tapisan syarat yang ketat dikeluarkan.
▪Akta 342 Kawalan Penyakit-berjangkit masih berkuatkuasa.
▪Tumpuan dan tindakan utama operasi mencegah aktiviti Bermotosikal dan lumba haram.
▪Tangkapan dan pendakwaan akan dikenakan terhadap semua pelanggaran undang-undang seperti di atas.

#SayangKeluargaAnda
#SayangiRm1000
#KitaJagaKita

“PDRM ALERT”

* Massive Operation in Conjunction with the New Year Eve Celebration 2021 Across The Country

Date: 31.12.2020
Time: 10 PM to 2 AM
Location: Nationwide

This operation involves all units at the State and District Police Headquarters including External Stations, including : –
▪All Patrol Car Units (MPV)
▪All Traffic Officers and Members
▪Motorcycle Patrol Unit (URB)
▪Raiding and arrest teams of the Criminal Branch
▪Raiding and arrest teams of the Narcotics Branch
▪Special Branch (SB) Intelligence
▪COVID-19 Monitoring and Compound Team

WARNING
▪No any Celebrations and convoys of vehicles are allowed.
▪No fireworks assembly and burning are not allowed, EXCEPT with written permission from the PDRM after a strict condition screening is issued.
▪Act 342 Control of Infectious Disease is still in force.
▪The main focus and action of operations is to prevent motorcycle and illegal racing activities.
▪ Arrests and prosecutions will be imposed on all violations of the law as above.

 

PDRM Alert On 2021 New Year Eve Celebrations : Possibly True

We attempted to verify the warning with PDRM, but they have not replied as of 9 PM.

Therefore, we are unable to confirm if there is actually a massive operation planned. However, we believe it is “possibly true” to some extent, because…

Fact #1 : PDRM Warned About Increase Inspection + Monitoring

On 28 December 2020, PDRM issued a statement regarding the year-end holidays and the 2021 New Year celebrations.

It acknowledge that people will be travelling and visiting each other, and this would likely lead to an increase in COVID-19 cases.

They reminded everyone to follow the SOP strictly, and warned that PDRM will increase their inspection and monitoring to ensure that the SOP is followed.

Fact #2 : New Year Eve Celebrations Are NOT Allowed

On 28 December 2020, Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said that the Malaysian government will NOT allow mass gatherings for the 2021 New Year Eve celebrations.

As a result, firework displays at the top New Year celebration spots like The Curve  and IPC Shopping Centre in Mutiara Damansara, Dataran Merdeka in downtown KL, and Resort World Genting in Genting Highlands, have been cancelled.

Fact #3 : PDRM Declined To Issue Any Permit For 2021 New Year Eve Celebrations

According to Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador, PDRM received requests for firework displays for the 2021 New Year Eve celebrations.

However, he said that PDRM decline to issue any permit for any 2021 New Year Eve celebration, including firework displays.

He also pointed out that this is in line with the 28 December 2020 announcement (Fact #2) that no mass gathering is permitted.

 

COVID-19 : How To Keep Safe During CMCO!

Here are a few simple steps to stay safe :

Recommended : Soap vs Sanitiser : Which Works Better Against COVID-19?
Recommended : Surgical Mask : How To CORRECTLY Wear + Remove!
Recommended : COVID-19 Food Safety : Fruits, Vegetables, Takeouts

 

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year, Everyone!

All of us in Team ARP would like to wish all our Christian readers a very merry Christmas, and everyone else happy holidays!

If you are travelling this holiday season, we wish you safe travels. If you are enjoying the holidays at home, don’t forget to check out some of the holiday freebies we have posted, and grab them while they are still available! 😀

We would also like to wish you all a Happy New Year as we count down to 2016. May the new year bring us even more joy and happiness!

Team ARP