SIBU: A total of 552 elderly aged 75 and above were venerated with presents at a lunar year gathering hosted by the Sibu Foochow Association (SFA) at a prominent hotel here recently.
Out of the number, 29 were between the ages of 90 and 101.
The event was graced by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, as the guest of honour.
Also in attendance were Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek, SFA honorary permanent chairman Albert Lau Pek Kii, SFA chairman Wong Sie Yong, and organising chairperson Wong Hie Ping.
Speaking at the occasion, Tiong expressed his gratification, noting that SFA has successfully conducted the elderly veneration for many years, which is not only the inheritance of the traditional virtue of respecting the elderly, but also a vivid practice of excellent culture.
Paying the highest respect to the elders, he highlighted that their struggle and dedication have paved the way for generations and laid the foundation for the prosperity and development of the Foochow community in Sibu.
“We, the young generation, should be grateful, cherish today’s happy life, and communicate more with the elders to learn from their wisdom and experience.
“I hope that young people today can understand that the rich life experiences and valuable advice of our elders will surely become the most precious wealth on our path to growth. At the same time, we should also integrate the spirit of caring for our elders into our daily lives, so that they can truly feel the care and respect,” he said.
Meanwhile, Tiong, who is also the Bintulu MP, praised SFA for being a model of uniting fellow members and promoting traditional culture.
He noted that the association currently has more than 8,000 members, which not only demonstrates the spirit of unity among fellow members, but also highlights the association’s important position and far-reaching influence in the local society.
The association, he stressed, should strive to promote the value of unity and harmony among the members, give full play to the huge power of the SFA, and make greater contributions to the Chinese community, especially to unite people’s hearts and promote friendship, so as to prevent the Chinese community from gradually falling apart and becoming a mess under the current social situation where extremism is growing and false news is spreading wildly.
“Otherwise, the existence of the Chinese community will lose its meaning,” he added.
Tiong, who is also the Dudong assemblyman, announced a grant of RM100,000 for the SFA to help run its activities.
