FAMILIES were encouraged to strengthen their bonds through meaningful interactions and quality time together at the ‘Paddle Up Together, Keluarga Hebat 2026’ programme held at PickleSky, Sunshine Central in Air Itam today.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow’s wife, Madam Tan Lean Kee, said the programme was more than just a recreational activity or an ordinary gathering, as it carried an important message about nurturing stronger relationships between children and their parents or guardians.
Tan, who is also the president of Pertubuhan Wanita Mutiara Pulau Pinang (PWMPP), stressed that the most precious gifts parents could offer their children were their time, attention, love and constant presence in their lives.
“In the busyness of our daily lives, children need adults who are always there to listen, understand, guide and love them without making them feel judged.
“They need attention and presence. What they will remember most is how loved, valued and accepted they felt,” she said in her speech during the programme.
She hoped the initiative would remind parents and guardians that spending quality time with their children was far more valuable than showering them with material gifts.
Addressing the children present, Tan also reminded them that each one was special, precious and had the potential to achieve great things in life.
She said the programme’s pickleball activities provided an opportunity for parents, guardians and children to play together, share laughter and create meaningful memories while developing important life skills.
“Through pickleball, they can learn about patience, communication, teamwork and how to accept both victory and defeat with an open heart.
“Pickleball can serve as a bridge between two generations, bringing parents and children closer through shared experiences,” she added.
The programme also featured a family development course conducted with experts and a pickleball sports clinic, with Tan expressing hope that the workshop sessions would help children better understand themselves and build their self-confidence.
She said PWMPP placed great importance on family well-being and youth development, as strong family relationships were essential to building a caring, compassionate and resilient society.
“When family bonds are strengthened, I believe children will grow up with greater confidence, emotional stability and the ability to face life’s challenges more effectively,” she said.
Tan also expressed her appreciation to the Village Community Management Council (MPKK) Lebuh Chulia and all parties involved for their collaboration in organising the meaningful initiative.
She hoped the programme would leave participants with more than just sweet memories, but also mark the beginning of closer relationships, better communication and stronger family bonds.
The programme was jointly organised by PWMPP and MPKK Lebuh Chulia.
Also present was Padang Kota service centre director Ewe Chee Way.
Story by Riadz Akmal