While most are happy to see the rodent scurry away into oblivion, will the boisterous ox be able to turn things around?

There’s no better way to know what the Metal Ox is capable of than to have your fortune foretold.

FMT spoke to Master Yap Boh Chu, a feng shui master with some 20 years of experience under his belt, to find out more about what awaits Malaysians in 2021.

According to Yap, the Year of the Metal Ox happens once every 60 years and is special because the Chinese word for metal, “jin”, can also be the word for gold.

He said the outlook for this year is unfortunately not good, though it will still be better than the previous year.

Here’s how everyone will fare in 2021…

1. Rat (2008, 1996, 1984, …)

Expect a tiring, difficult year with possible stomach ailments as well as mental issues.

Arguments and relationship issues may be something of a problem as well, and it’s advisable to avoid leadership roles for the moment.

Look up though, as the second half of the year will be fruitful, with a chance for beneficial investments.

2. Ox (2009, 1997, 1985, …)

2021 will be a year of obstacles and your endeavours will not be on stable ground.

Your heart and blood will prove problematic as will your unprofitable financial investments.

Patience is advisable for the time being, and caution necessary while driving or while outdoors.

On the flip side, students will find that this is a good year to bury one’s self in their studies.

3. Tiger (2010, 1998, 1986, …)

Good luck and prosperity will be coming your way this year, doubly so for entrepreneurs and expecting parents.

Women born in the Year of the Tiger, in particular, can expect to thrive.

However, relationship issues are likely, as is overconfidence and greed when it comes to financial profit.

Keep your wallet close to you and avoid overindulging for your own sake; you may need your coffers for a possible incoming lawsuit.

4. Rabbit (2011, 1999, 1987, …)

Hop for joy as this is an auspicious year where you will enjoy great achievements.

In the creative business? It’s going to be a good year for you with a strong chance of a career boost.

Looking for love? Men born in the Year of the Rabbit can expect better chances this year, though squandering said chance is ill-advised and will backfire.

Remember to remain humble and to be thrifty despite the string of successes coming your way.

5. Dragon (2012, 2000, 1988, …)

Concentration and mental focus will be a must in this year of distractions.

Many people will come your way, though not all of them will be to your benefit.

Enmities formed during this year will be lasting and highly damaging.

Older men ought to keep their hands off young ladies, as scandals will leave you in a terrible position.

6. Snake (2013, 2001, 1989, …)

Keep working on your existing talents and your fame will spread far and wide.

Many good people will come your way and it will help to mend ties with your personal enemies.

Hence, it is a good year to settle legal matters, though the end of the year may bring misfortune.

Workaholics, beware! Your failure to tend to your relationships will cost you dearly.

7. Horse (2014, 2002, 1990, …)

Keep trotting on as your career prospects will steadily improve throughout the year.

As such, trying to take shortcuts will backfire. Instead, take on a mentor to keep yourself on the right track.

Don’t draw too much attention to yourself, as mistakes will be made if you speak out a little too much.

Also, be cautious while exercising; limb injuries are likely this year.

8. Goat (2015, 2003, 1991, …)

Enemies are coming your way, so stick to your team for now and keep your eyes on the goal.

You will be financially stable this year, though the same cannot be said for your health.

Avoid unnecessary indulgences and practise a healthy diet; keep your hands on that steering wheel.

Relationship troubles will be rampant, and legal troubles might come a-calling.

9. Monkey (2016, 2004, 1992, …)

Stress from financial problems will be unavoidable, as are the many financial traps and obstacles coming this year.

While it is a good year for politicians and other public speakers, be careful with your words or they will return to haunt you.

Old injuries will also return, and your lungs in particular are vulnerable.

Build up your coffers now, for your income will be taking a hit this year.

10. Rooster (2017, 2005, 1993, …)

It is a generally auspicious year for you, with many obstructions removed to your benefit.

Stay humble and modest to achieve your goals, and keep your projects small for the time being.

Financially and romantically, this year is looking bright for you.

Be outgoing and leave your comfort zone to increase your luck.

11. Dog (2018, 2006, 1994, …)

The world is your oyster and nothing can stop you this year.

Stay humble and tolerant though, as you might have trouble with your finances.

In fact, personal greed and pride will ruin your year, as will overthinking things.

Instead, just love those who love you and keep your relationships intact and functional this year.

12. Pig (2019, 2007, 1995, …)

It is to be a year with a slow start and an average ending, with good fortune possible rather than certain.

Searching for quick rewards will not end well, but if you work hard, modest rewards are yours.

Promotions are coming your way, as are good academic results.

Don’t gorge on goodies though, stomach and abdomen problems will be a pain to you, as will heart and blood ailments.