CARRYING the theme “Blessed to be a blessing,” the Harmony of Hope Christmas Concert truly embodied this message when attendees and donors contributed a total of RM118,865 for two charitable organisations.
Organised by Wesley Methodist School Penang International (WMSPI), the concert, held recently in the school hall, drew a full house, with Madam Tan Lean Kee, wife of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, as the guest of honour.
The funds raised will be channelled to Charis Hospice, which provides care and dignity to patients and families receiving palliative care, and House of Hope, which supports families facing hardship in Penang.
Tan commended WMSPI for nurturing a generation aware of the needs around them and willing to respond with kindness.
“Through Harmony of Hope, you have given your students a platform to live out empathy, practise generosity, and discover that their gifts carry purpose. You are raising future leaders who will serve with integrity and compassion — and Penang is better because of it,” she said.
“The true strength of Penang has always been more than its buildings, businesses, or technology. It lies in the character of its people.”
She also expressed her appreciation to the educators, parents, organisers, partners, and volunteers who worked tirelessly for months to make the concert a success.
To the students of WMSPI, Tan said the music they shared was not merely a performance — it was a message of empathy and unity.
“Remember this: true greatness is measured not by applause, but by the lives we touch. You make Penang proud,” she added.
Tan Chong Jin, the vice-chairman of the Wesley Methodist School Board of Management, thanked everyone who had contributed generously of their time, energy, and resources.
He highlighted that the concert gave WMSPI students and performers the opportunity to use their God-given talents for the benefit of the community.
“The music and performances remind us of the Christmas message of hope — a hope rooted in love, expressed through giving, and lived out in service to others. We are immensely proud of the students and performers. Their dedication, discipline, and willingness to step onto this stage remind us that talents are not merely for display but for service. They have blessed the community through their courage and creativity.
“We also appreciate parents, families, and guests for their steadfast support of the school and for being part of a community that values character, compassion, and care for others,” Tan said.
Also present at the concert were Tan Ay Zing, chairman of the Members of the School Board; Lim Kah Cheng, director of Methodist Education; Daniel Khoo, chairman of the School Christian Support Committee; Rev Earnest Tan, school chaplain; School Christian Support Committee members Ch’ng Eng Seong, Wayne Wong and Irene Teow; and Lau Chong Beng, WMSPI senior principal.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix courtesy of Wesley Methodist School Penang International (WMSPI)