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Receiving angpows is arguably one of the most anticipated things the younger generation look forward to during Chinese New Year (other than meeting up with family members!).

During this time, many establishments take the opportunity to hand out angpow packets bearing the name and logo. Yay free angpows!

However, photos of the Petronas’ angpow were circulated on social media as it made many netizens furious. This was due to the colour scheme of the packets, while traditionally red and gold are used, this time the angpows looked like they used an apparent white base colour for the packet and had black designs on it too.

These angpows were slammed by many Malaysians as the colour scheme is normally used for funerals as it symbolises death. Netizens criticised the colour, saying that white is inauspicious to be used for Chinese New Year and said that it was an insult and disrespect to the Chinese community.

Some even said, “Angpow means Red Packet, I see nothing red so how can you call it angpow?”

Following this backlash, Petronas issued an apology on their Facebook page and said that they have recalled the angpows. The “white” angpows are not white as seen but actually light-coloured and features an ink painting from the Petronas Arts collection.

This artwork was also used for Petronas’ e-greeting feature which has a grey background. Petronas added, “It was never our intention to overlook any cultural sensitivities.”

Apparently, the angpows had not been circulated in public widely and Petronas has officially released another version which comes in the traditional red with a similar artwork after feedback from employees.

Do you like the new angpow designs?

Also read: Malaysians’ Guide to CNY ‘Ang Pows’ and How Much They Should Be Giving