FOR many recipients, receiving a state honour is more than a personal milestone; it is a reminder of the responsibility to continue serving the people and inspiring the next generation.
Among those honoured during the state investiture ceremony held in conjunction with the 85th birthday celebration of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib was Stark Development and Zeon Properties Group founder and group chief executive officer Leon Lee, who received the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri (DSPN), which carries the title of Dato’.
Describing the recognition as a meaningful turning point in his journey, Lee said the honour has strengthened his resolve to contribute even more to society.
“I am very happy because of this recognition from the state government, as well as the recognition from our elected representatives and state executive councillors.
“Today marks another starting point for me. This recognition is very meaningful, and I will continue to contribute more to society while encouraging more young people to work hard and give back to the community. I hope they, too, will achieve success one day, just as I have today,” he said during a brief interview with Buletin Mutiara at Dewan Sri Pinang this morning.
Sharing a message with aspiring entrepreneurs, Lee encouraged young people to persevere despite challenges.
“I always encourage all young entrepreneurs not to give up so easily because what you work hard for today is what you will see tomorrow.
“Do not give up easily. Stay determined and keep believing in yourself because today’s perseverance and hard work will determine how far you can go tomorrow.
“I will continue serving society and hope to inspire and motivate even more young people,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dang Wangi OCPD Asst Comm Sazalee Adam, who was conferred the Bintang Cemerlang Negeri (BCN), expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Penang government for recognising nearly three decades of his service in the state.
Originally from Melaka, Sazalee spent almost 30 years serving in Penang, including as the Balik Pulau OCPD, before recently being transferred to Kuala Lumpur to head the Dang Wangi police district.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Penang government for conferring this medal upon me today.
“I have served and dedicated myself to Penang for almost 30 years, and I am truly grateful that my contributions have been recognised by the state government.
“My sincere thanks also go to the state government administration under the leadership of the Chief Minister,” he said.
For Jalan Baru Sri Muniswarar Temple chairman Major Segaran Muniandy, who also received the DSPN, the honour was one he humbly dedicated to the temple and the deities he has faithfully served.
“I am the chairman of the Sri Muniswarar Temple, and it is through my service to the temple that I have been blessed with this title.
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a part in making this possible.
“This recognition came through the temple, and above all, I offer my deepest thanks to Lord Sri Muniswarar and Madurai Veeran. It is because of their blessings that I received this title. I pray that all glory and honour be attributed to them,” he said.
Also among the recipients was Penang state Legal Adviser Datuk Wan Nor Sakina Saad’s driver, Abdul Rashid Ab. Rahim, who received his first state honour after 12 years of service.
The 39-year-old described the recognition as both a blessing and a source of motivation to continue serving with greater dedication.
“This is my first time receiving such an honour, and I feel truly grateful. All praise to God; throughout my years of service, I have been blessed to receive this recognition.
“This award motivates me to perform my duties even better, with greater integrity, honesty and responsibility. It encourages me to continue serving to the best of my ability,” he said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan