Happy New Year (HL).(new year celebrations in Malaysia)(Brief Article)

YEAR 2001 arrived in Malaysia to a grand welcome of fireworks, noise and music as people around the country stayed up late to greet the third millennium.

Malaysians may have joined the world in ushering in Year 2000 as the "new" millennium last year, but it didn't stop them from having a gala time again to welcome the real thing.

Purists insist that Jan 1, 2001, is actually the real beginning of the third millennium and 21st century.

Public squares, nightspots and streets around the country were packed with party-goers who began their countdown vigil from dusk. As the sun set on Year 2000, the party spirit kicked into high gear.

Concerts …