ACTIVE in the legal profession, passionate about marathon running, and serving as a registrar of marriages at the Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH), Lim Choo Hooi has long made his mark as a community figure whose contributions are diverse.
After many years of selfless service and tireless commitment, Choo Hooi has been honoured with the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri (DSPN) award, which carries the prestigious title of ‘Datuk’.
The award was conferred in conjunction with the 84th birthday celebration of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Datuk Seri Utama Ramli Ngah Talib.
When met outside Dewan Sri Pinang, Choo Hooi was surrounded by his fellow Penang Forward Sports Club (PFSC) friends and members, who had come in droves to congratulate him.
“I am extremely honoured and grateful to the Penang government for recognising my contributions to the community.
“This award serves as a great encouragement for me to continue giving back, and I hope it inspires others to do the same,” said Choo Hooi, who is also PFSC chairman.
A familiar face in Penang’s running community as well, Choo Hooi is also known for his involvement in organising monthly running clinics, particularly the Tom Khoo Run to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Beyond his legal profession and athletic pursuits, Choo Hooi is also involved in his role as a marriage registrar at PCTH, where he has solemnised hundreds of unions over the years with warmth and dignity.
Meanwhile, Kiwanis Club of Penang Central (KCPC) assistant secretary Evelyn Chuah thanked the state for bestowing upon her the Pingat Jasa Masyarakat (PJM).
” I never dreamt of receiving a state award. Truly, it wasn’t even in my thoughts. For as long as I can remember, I have simply done what felt right – giving my time and energy to causes that matter.
“From my involvement in the Kiwanis Club of Penang Central to my behind-the-scenes role in PGCare Alliance, especially during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, I never expected recognition,” she said.
Story by Edmund Lee