TO CELEBRATE the coming Chinese New Year, three organisations paid an early visit to two welfare homes in Temerloh and Mentakab, Pahang.
The three are Federation of Temerloh Chinese Associations, Temerloh Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Temerloh Dancing Association.
Representatives from the three organisations spent several hours mingling with residents of Mentakab Welfare Association Old Folks Home and Kampung Baru Temerloh Old Folks Home.
The atmosphere was warm and lively as they extended festive greetings and brought cheer to the elderly residents.
Leading the delegation were Datuk Seiko Chew Kim Pong, who is also both Temerloh Chinese Chamber and Temerloh Dancing Association president, and Federation of Temerloh Chinese Associations president Datuk Henry Wong Tat Chee.
Chew said they distributed red packets and mandarin oranges during the visit, in addition to singing Chinese New Year songs and dancing together with residents.
“All of us were delighted to see them happy and having a whale of a time despite the brief time we were there.
“We also took group photos with the elderly and extended Chinese New Year blessings and greetings to liven up the festive atmosphere.
“Such visits allow the residents to feel the warmth and care of the community, and remind them that they are not forgotten,” he said.
Chew also said the spirit of respecting, honouring and taking care of the elderly are traditional virtues that the Chinese community has always valued.
He said the elderly had contributed greatly to their families and society in their heyday.
“It is our hope that through these visits, we can express our respect and gratitude to the elderly while also conveying the care and blessings of the community,” he said.
Wong, meanwhile, said the gesture represents everyone’s concern for the welfare of the elderly.
“Society should continue to pay attention to the well-being of senior citizens, especially those without immediate family members or children.
“We encourage more groups and individuals to visit children, nursing and welfare homes and offer them companionship, albeit for a short period, to let them feel the warmth of the festivities.
“Through close interaction, the less fortunate can feel valued and cared for, jointly creating a more compassionate environment,” he said.
