Molex first opened a facility in Asia in 1977. Now with several operations in Asia, we thought we’d share a little bit of information about the Chinese New Year for employees and customers alike.

Official opening of Molex China in 1989

According to the traditional calendar used in several East Asian countries such as China, Vietnam and the Philippines, people mark each year with a 12-year cycle, also known in English as the Chinese Zodiac, with each year assigned to an animal. Those animals include rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig (Want to know which animal you are? Find out here).

Similar to Western astrology, people often relate your character and even fortune with the animal of the year of your birth. Those born in a year of the monkey are thought to be energetic and smart. While most don’t take the predictions seriously, they can still serve as a lighthearted topic of conversation.

The Year of the Monkey

For those observing the Lunar New Year, February 8, 2016 – January 27, 2017 (as marked on the Gregorian calendar), you will be celebrating the Year of the Monkey. People see the monkey as a sign of power, vigor and great courage. The most famous monkey in China, though imaginary, may be Sun Wukong, or the Monkey King. He is a character in Journey to the West, a classical Chinese novel. The novel blends facts and mythology based on the story of an ancient Chinese monk (known as Xuanzang) going west to India for Buddhist scriptures. Xuanzang successfully obtained the scriptures thanks to the dauntless efforts of his three disciples. Among them was Wukong, and along the journey he beat countless demons trying to eat Xuanzang, whose flesh was believed to be a prescription for eternal life.

John Krehbiel, Sr. dotting the eyes of the lion as part of the ceremony to open the first Molex China facility

How Different Countries Celebrate

The Lunar New Year is celebrated in many Asian countries, many of which have their own tradition of celebrations.

• China – On the eve of the New Year, people will have a Reunion Dinner, where fish are often served but not eaten. “Let there be fish,” pronounces “Let there be surpluses,” which symbolizes a prosperous new year.
• Philippines – Like many other countries, people set off firecrackers to make “noise” intended to drive away evil spirits and usher in good fortune. While use of firecrackers has waned due to safety and cost concerns, Filipinos have adopted ingenious ways to keep the tradition alive by banging metal pots, cans or simply shouting.

Molex China, 1989