THEY may be in their 80s but they still have an undeniable zest for life.
Calling themselves “The Young Ones”, about 40 Penang Free School alumni came together for a lunchtime reunion in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Group representative Tho On Leong, 81, said the gathering brought together former classmates who completed their secondary education in the early 1960s.
What began as a simple reconnection on social media blossomed into a cherished monthly tradition.
“We found one another again through social media and realised many of us were living in the Klang Valley.
“So we decided to meet up, and since last year, we have been gathering on the first Monday of every month,” said Tho who is better known among friends as Stephen.
During the afternoon filled with laughter, stories and nostalgia, old friends shared a meal, cut a celebratory cake and posed for photographs.
Tho said the reunions had become much more than simply catching up.
“Most of us have been retired for years. At our age, you become more aware that time is precious.
“These gatherings give us the chance to enjoy one another’s company, relive old memories and stay connected.
“And the conversations can go in any direction.
“We talk about everything under the sun,” he said with a laugh.
The father-of-two from Seri Kembangan said Petaling Jaya was chosen as the regular meeting spot because it was easily accessible for members, many of whom faced mobility challenges.
“Travelling long distances is not easy for some of us anymore,” he said.
“Petaling Jaya is central, convenient and close to where many of us live, so it works well for everyone.”
