THE annual UKM Pesta Angpow Chinese New Year gala dinner saw its 23rd edition last Sunday, with about 1,000 guests, including students and alumni, turning up at the Dewan Canselor Tun Abdul Razak (DECTAR).
Organised by the 23rd UKM Pesta Ang Pow secretariat, the gala carried the theme “inheritance” and was about remembering roots, preserving Chinese culture and promoting unity among Malaysians.
There were performances by local singer Ivy Lee and a magic show by Agoh Goh, but the highlight was a musical by the students.
They staged the show following a three-day training camp with theatre advisor Emiko Ten. The musical, which included a live band in its act, showcased the many talents of the participating students.
The secretariat donated part of the funds it collected to Pusat Jagaan Orang Kurang Upaya Si Putih, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Kanak-kanak Seremban and Persatuan Kebajikan Kanak-kanak Cacat Pu Ai.
Deputy Education Minister and MCA Youth chief Datuk Chong Sin Woon, who is a UKM alumnus, donated RM10,000 to the secretariat.
“I’m glad to see that the students are able to have their CNY event here at DECTAR. There were so many restrictions back then when we wanted to have student activities.
“UKM gave us the platform and shaped our values, so alumni should support their juniors,” he said.
Chong added that it was a misconception that people in China and Taiwan celebrated the Lunar New Year with more fanfare than people in Malaysia.
“It is actually pretty quiet during Chinese New Year in those countries, whereas in Malaysia, the celebration starts weeks before and continues up to a month after the New Year,” he said.
Sunday Star editor Esther Ng, also a UKM alumnus, received a plaque and certificate of appreciation on behalf of Star Media Group, one of the platinum sponsors of the event.
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