OK here's my take on this:
For it to so complete that no one advertises during this Lunar New
Year like they did last year means that there is a directive. From
the top, to the advertisement watchdog, to the advertising
firms.
They are just to advertise, just inform the public of their offers.
Do not greet. Do not like a few months ago, where advertisers wish
patrons, customers, the public a Merry Christmas and a Happy Happy
New Year.
I think because of the current global tide of religious extremeism,
there was (in western countries of) some unhappiness of these
greeting. So the powers that be in Singapore, decide to be
politically correct and prohibit the greetings in newspapers here.
After all not everyone in Singapore is Chinese. The non-Chinese
should not be imposed upon with the Chinese New Year
greetings.
I wonder if this new year zodiac sign, the Pig has some bearing on
this directive.
I guess from now on all ethnic festivals would be confined within
the particular community. Deepavali, Hari Raya, Christmas and other
festivals would come and go, to be celebrated only within the
respective community. The other ethnic community should not be
inconvenienced.
Curiously, I heard only one Gong Xi Fa Cai this CNY season. It is
from Rowan Atkins, Mr. Bean.
Well if Mr. Bean can wish all Singaporeans "Gong Xi Fa Cai", so can
I.
"I wish all sgForumers "GONG XI FA CAI"
