Hsiung (left)hitting the gong three times to start the open house in Sibu. With him are (from third right) Judy, Clarence and Chieng.
Leaders and pioneers from Sibu have been commended for laying the foundation for the blind movement in Malaysia.
Sarawak Society for the Blind (SSB) president Datuk Dr Hsiung Kwo Yeun described these individuals as shining examples of humanity, service and selfless contributions to the community.
“Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB) began in 1963 when it was registered in Kuching.
“Our first president was Yang Guang, followed by the late Senator Ting Ming Hui.
“During those difficult early days, there was no office and only a few supporters, yet he (Ming Hui) carried on with the work,” Hsiung said at the SSB Sibu chapter open house and charity event.
Among Sarawak leaders who had made lasting contributions he said were Chiew Peng Ang, Datuk Lau Hui Kang, Hii Yii Ho, John Wong and James Lau, who have all passed away.
“I’ve heard many stories of how, in those days, volunteers led by Chiew would go to the Sunday market to collect vegetables and fish to cook for the community.
“We owe much gratitude to these pioneers.”
Hsiung also singled out Hui Kang, who served as both state and national president, for his visionary efforts that continued to benefit the blind community today.
“He bought two shoplots in Kuala Lumpur that provided permanent income for National Council for the Blind, Malaysia (NCBM) and also helped secure the land for our centre.”
He commended Hii, whom he described as “a dear friend, generous and kind, truly one of a kind”, and Wong, who served as NCBM secretary-treasurer for 20 years.
“Together, we (with Wong) not only raised funds but also launched the Free Cataract Operation Programme for rural communities.
“Up to now, nearly 9,000 people from longhouses and remote areas have benefitted from these free cataract operations.”
Hsiung also honoured James, another Sibu native, who was NCBM treasurer for 35 years.
“He was a man of great integrity, always meticulous about finances – every sen had to be accounted for.”
Urging the public to emulate the selfless spirit of Sibu’s good Samaritans and past leaders, Hsiung said compassion and community support remained the foundation of progress for the blind community in Sarawak and beyond.
Reflecting on his past leadership as MAB president, Hsiung said Sibu branch had always stood out for raising the most funds for the blind community.
Also present at the event were Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Sibu branch chairman Clarence Ting and organising chairman Datin Judy Lau.
