(From fifth left) Zhou, Dr Wee, Teik Cheng, Chong and Koay with other guests during the Penang MCA Chinese New Year dinner. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
JOYFUL camaraderie filled the air as Penang MCA members gathered for their annual Chinese New Year dinner.
The delegates from various state divisions were joined by family members and business leaders at the event held at a restaurant in George Town.
They wasted no time in catching up and taking photos together, before engaging in a lively yee sang tossing session complete with auspicious sayings.
The 200-strong crowd soon settled down to enjoy a sumptuous eight-course banquet which included symbolic fish and prawn dishes.
Videos of MCA’s previous accomplishments and current efforts in nation- and community-building were shown as guests tucked into their meal.
The dinner was attended by MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon and vice-president Datuk Tan Teik Cheng.
The senior party leaders each gave a rousing speech, in which they pledged to continue championing matters of public interest such as government accountability and transparency.
Members of local media tossing ‘yee sang’ in hopes of ushering in a prosperous year.
Dr Wee, Chong and Teik Cheng also urged party members and stakeholders to continue working together to maintain economic prosperity for the state and country in the Year of the Snake and beyond.
They also presented special guest Consul-General of China in Penang Zhou Youbin, with a special memento – a commemorative book celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China in 2024.
As the night wore on, many guests, including local pressmen, went up on stage to belt out karaoke numbers. Some opted for festive songs while others went with evergreen classics.
Their efforts were well rewarded, as the best crooners walked away with prizes.
The dinner was organised by the Penang MCA state committee. Among those present were its executive adviser Datuk Koay Kar Huah and secretary Yeoh Chin Kah.
The community leaders who attended included Penang Chinese Town Hall chairman Tan Sri Dr Tan Khoon Hai and honorary adviser Datuk Seri Khor Teng How as well as Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce Penang president Datuk Teh Eng Hin.
