GEORGE TOWN: When Datuk Lee Toong Leon meets young entrepreneurs with viable business ideas, he goes the extra mile to guide them.
The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia Young Entrepreneurs division chairman said timely guidance could make a huge difference.
“I hope more young people will work harder to contribute to society. Don’t give up easily. The effort and perseverance you put in will determine how far you go,” he told reporters after receiving the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri (DSPN) award which carries the title Datuk.
The 44-year-old has founded more than five successful companies in Penang spanning the property, retail and food and beverage sectors.
Also honoured was 81-year-old Cheah Moey Yin, who received the Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK) for her contributions to society.
Despite her age, she continues to teach yoga, bake cakes and pastries for charity sales, and support people living with dementia.
She is also a committee member of the Penang Chinese Brush Painting Art Society and the D’Home Mental Health Association.
The first yoga instructor of the Penang Swimming Club, Cheah has been teaching there for more than 20 years and also conducts simple exercises for elderly care home residents.
Pertubuhan Hui Yin Seh Pulau Pinang chairman Khian Hock Leong, who received the Darjah Johan Negeri (DJN), said the recognition would motivate him to continue serving the community through charity work and promoting Buddhist values.
Khian, who joined the society at the age of 12, has been involved with the organisation for 53 years and wants to keep contributing.
Pelita Samudra Pertama (M) Sdn Bhd managing director Tan Sri Murugan Doraisamy and Pelita Samudra Pertama (M) Sdn Bhd executive director Datuk KK Sihabutheen Kirudu Mohamed received the Darjah Gemilang Pangkuan Negeri (DGPN) award which carries the title “Datuk Seri”.
A total of 312 individuals were conferred state honours on the second day of the investiture ceremony held in conjunction with the 85th birthday of Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib.
The four-day ceremony, which will conclude tomorrow at Dewan Sri Pinang, honours 1,221 individuals, with 101 receiving state orders and 1,120 receiving state stars and medals.
