(Version in Hokkien)
Tiau Kooi Na Pak
Toe Bay Bong Tiok Bak
Tiau Kooi Na Cheng
Toe Bay Bong Tiok Leng!
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(Version in English)
To give away hundred dollars worth of garlands
Doesn’t mean you are allowed to touch her flesh
To give away thousand dollars worth of garlands
Doesn’t mean you are allowed to touch her breast!
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About this rhyme/saying:~
This rhyme/saying is rather crude but advises patrons especially those who frequent night clubs to be prudent in spending when lavishing performers with costly garlands..
The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..
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