From silk sarees presentation in Little India to annual visits at Chowrasta Market, Penang honours women
IT was an afternoon filled with gratitude as 350 single mothers were presented with sarees in conjunction with Mothers Day.
The saree-giving ceremony took place recently at Little India’s Rathi Silk Palace in King Street, George Town in Penang, where state housing and environment committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo handed over the colourful garments to the recipients.
The silk sarees in vibrant hues of peacock blue, maroon and emerald green seemed to mirror the resilience and grace of the women who gathered outside the store.
Among them were office cleaners S. Mariamah, 45, and Muniama Krishnan, 59, who arrived together with their friend, housewife S. Jisephin, 55.
Mariamah could not hide her delight as she unfolded her saree to admire its sheen.
“It is very beautiful and I will wear it for family gatherings, Thaipusam or Deepavali,” she said, gently running her fingers along the fabric.
Her two friends nodded in agreement, echoing her sentiments and describing the gift as both meaningful and timely.
Rathi Silk Palace Sdn Bhd director Datuk L. Gandesan said the single mothers were chosen by two non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
“Each saree is worth up to RM250. This is our small way of giving back to the community,” he said, highlighting that the company had carried out similar initiatives for the past five years.
“During festive seasons, all our branches contribute by giving sarees to the less fortunate as part of our commitment to the community that has supported us over the years,” he said.
Earlier in the morning, the cheer of Mothers Day was also felt at the Chowrasta Market in Penang Road.
Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying together with Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng and Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng made their annual rounds at the bustling market to distribute towels to traders and visitors.
The three of them also spent some time chatting with stall operators who had become familiar faces over the years.
Pickle seller Ch’ng Poh Tuan, 78, who has been operating her small corner shop for the past 61 years, said: “It is always nice to see them in my little shop.”
For her, Mothers Day remains a simple and heartfelt affair with family.
Meanwhile, Wong said visiting traders at the market was an annual tradition for them.
“We also visit during other festive occasions as it is important to stay connected with the people,” added Wong.
