BATU Lancang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong brought cheer to the residents of Penang Home for the Infirm and Aged as he decided to celebrate Chinese New Year with the elderly at the home this year.
“When I visited the home prior to New Year, I had this thought of holding a CNY celebration over here instead of the usual open house that is normally held at the Batu Lancang open car park.
“I feel that being with them and celebrating CNY in this manner gives much more contentment and happiness,’’ Ong said during the event at the home today.
Ong later presented the home, which is situated in the Batu Lancang constituency, RM5,000 as a gesture of love.
Joining him were Jelutong MP R.S.N. Rayer, Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim and Northeast district penghulu Asri Ahmad and M Summit Group managing director Datuk Albert Moh.
Rayer, during his speech at the function, stated that the state government appreciates the senior citizens and their contributions.
“Penang was the first state to honour the elderly by introducing the senior appreciation programme which was initiated by the then Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.
“The state government gives importance to the elderly as they play a significant role to the well-being of the society.
“Thus, I would like to thank the home for their noble job in taking care of the elderly and if there is any need for us to assist, they are welcome to contact our service centre,’’ said Rayer, who contributed festive goodies to the home.
The residents of the home were treated to a scrumptious luncheon and were entertained with some musical performances as well.
Among the residents was centenarian R. Philomena, who has been taking shelter at the Penang Home for the Infirm and Aged for 14 years.
Philomena, who was a former tailor at the Royal Air Force, was seen brimming with happiness as Ong, Rayer, Lim and Asri approached her and had a lively conversation with her as well as other residents.
Story & Pix by Tanushalini Moroter