A Grand Celebration at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching
KUCHING: In a display of grandeur and cultural significance, former Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri George Chan Hong Nam celebrated his 88th birthday in style. The event, held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on August 28, was attended by 888 guests, reflecting the auspicious number 8 in Chinese culture.
The evening was a spectacle of elegance, featuring 88 tables set up in the shape of an ‘8’ in the great hall, and a striking 8-foot-long birthday cake as the centrepiece. Friends, family, and dignitaries gathered to honour the esteemed leader, making it a memorable occasion for all present.
Distinguished Guests and a Night of Joy
Notable Attendees at the Celebration
The event saw the attendance of many prominent figures, including the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi. Other distinguished guests included Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, wife of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and former Kapit MP Tan Sri Datuk Amar Leonard Linggi Jugah.
Dr Chan’s Humorous and Heartfelt Speech
In his speech, Dr Chan charmed the audience with his humour, saying that at the age of 88, he now “has a licence to make mistakes, miscount, or be forgetful.” He continued to lighten the mood with anecdotes about the perks of forgetfulness, especially when it comes to remembering birthdays and anniversaries.
“It’s not that I want to forget, but age is catching up with me, so I have the licence to forget,” he quipped, much to the delight of the guests.
The Importance of a Clear Conscience and Happiness
Living with Integrity
On a more serious note, Dr Chan emphasized the value of living with a clear conscience and doing what is beneficial for others. “It’s very important that your conscience is always clear. That way, you can sleep well at night,” he remarked.
The Key to a Fulfilling Life
Dr Chan also highlighted the significance of happiness and friendship in life. “The most important thing in life is to be happy and to have a lot of friends. Tonight, I have so many friends here because I’m happy with them, and they’re happy with me. When everyone is happy, the world becomes a better place,” he added.
A Tribute to His Beloved Wife
A Special Thank You to the Organiser
Dr Chan took a moment to express his gratitude to his wife, Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Datuk Wira Lorna Enan Muloon, who meticulously organised the entire birthday celebration. Her efforts ensured that the event was not only a reflection of his life and legacy but also a beautiful gathering of friends and loved ones.
“Thank you to my wife for making this celebration so special. It is not easy to organise such a grand event, and I am deeply appreciative of her hard work,” he said, acknowledging her role in making the evening a resounding success.
A Night to Remember in Sarawak
The celebration was not just a birthday party; it was a testament to Dr Chan’s influence and the relationships he has cultivated over the years. The number 8, symbolising prosperity and good fortune in Chinese culture, was a fitting motif for the evening, reflecting the success and happiness Dr Chan has achieved in his personal and professional life.
As the evening drew to a close, the hall was filled with laughter, joy, and the warmth of camaraderie, embodying the spirit of Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit.