THE Berjaya Hotel in Burmah Road was filled with laughter, joy and smiling faces as some 280 former Convent students gathered with friends and family members for the 90th Convent Ex-Pupils Association (Cepa) annual dinner.
The evening featured lively foot-tapping dance performances and a delicious buffet dinner, along with a cake-cutting ceremony and a lucky draw.
Cepa president Datuk Molly Mark said the association has grown from strength to strength since its inception in 1933.
“This is due to the enthusiasm and the support extended by the members.
“And today, we are proud to celebrate our prestigious 90th birthday. It is a great privilege for this year’s Convent Ex-Pupils Association committee members to organise this meaningful 90th birthday.
“Our task is by no means easy as we are determined to make this event enjoyable and memorable. I hope all of you will be have a fantastic time and lots of fun.
“After all, the annual get-together is a platform for all former Convent students to rekindle their sisterhood and touch base as some only meet up once a year at this dinner to get updates on each other,” Mark said in her speech tonight.
The anniversary celebration was also attended by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his wife Tan Lean Kee.
Chow, in his speech, congratulated Cepa on its successful celebration of its 90th anniversary.
He acknowledged its role in fostering its camaraderie among its alumnae and maintaining a strong connection with their alma mater.
“In addition, the association also provides assistance through its annual programmes. One of which is to make visits to orphanages during Christmas and to sing carols to bring joy to the children.
“This is most commendable and I strongly encourage members of Cepa, especially the younger ones, to continue with the good deeds of the association in order to keep it going and to serve our community.
“The Penang government greatly appreciates every contribution of the people regardless of age and background.
“In fact, we always adhere to the principles of a welfare state by ensuring that the state’s revenue is shared among the deserving, who are always close to the heart of the state administration,” said Chow.
In closing, Chow extended his best wishes to the Convent Ex-Pupils Association, hoping for its continued success in future endeavours.
Also present during the celebration were Cepa vice-president Jacqueline Kwong and Cepa secretary Lily Leng.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix and video by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar