LAUGHTER, karaoke, a special draw and a cha-cha performance made for a memorable evening as former colleagues of The Star gathered for the Ex-Star Chat Group’s fourth anniversary gala dinner at a restaurant in George Town, Penang.
The reunion drew 91 attendees, including 15 from the Klang Valley and two each from Melaka and Kedah – along with their spouses, family members and friends.
The highlight of the night was a cha-cha performance by former regional operations manager (north) Datuk Richard Chung and his wife Datin Chuah Li Sim, whose energetic routine and polished footwork won enthusiastic applause.
Members also took turns entertaining the crowd during two karaoke sessions, while master of ceremonies Timothy Lim kept the mood lively with his witty remarks.
The special draw added a modern touch with the introduction of a digital “Spin-the-Wheel” feature. Projected onto a big screen, the electronic wheel created suspense as it spun through attendees’ names before revealing the winners.
The biggest cheers came when former graphic artist Gan Hoay Jen was announced the winner.
She received the grand prize of a RM200 angpow from group coordinator Choi Tuck Wo, who is The Star’s former regional editor (north).
Sixteen prizes, including the grand prize and special prizes, were given out.
The celebration also featured a birthday segment for 11 members born in June – Tina Tan, Yolande Ong, Ann Tan, Angie Ng, Janet Chong, Ivy Lim, Alex Teng, KH Ong, Richard Ang, Anthony Tan and CK Soon.
Wearing colourful birthday sunglasses, they joined in the “Happy Birthday” song before cutting the cake.
The evening ended with guests joining hands to sing Zai Jian (Goodbye).
Choi said the turnout reflected the lasting friendships formed over the years.
“This is our biggest reunion so far and it is heartening to see so many former colleagues making the effort to reconnect.
“Friendships built in the office dating back to the 1970s have stood the test of time.
“This gathering is about catching up with old friends, creating new memories and making sure no one loses touch,” he said.
Choi said the organising committee comprising him, Khoo Boo Taik, Ng Ah Bak and Tina, introduced the cha-cha performance to add variety to the programme.
“Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it,” he said.
