By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Sept 20: A total of 520 senior citizens aged 60 and above have set a new Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) achievement for the most senior citizens wearing cheongsam in an event.
The record was recognised during the 4th Cheongsam Festival held at MBKS Community Hall here today, organised in collaboration with the Sarawak Federation of Chinese Women Association.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng witnessed the presentation of the MBOR certificate to MBKS by MBOR official Siti Hajar Johor.
The record required participants to be aged 60 and above and dressed in cheongsam for the event.
Wee said the achievement was more than just about breaking a record, as MBKS was also using such events to encourage senior citizens to remain active and socially engaged.
“This is what we want to see our elderly people. Don’t just stay at home. As City Council, we try to create more events for them,” he said when met after the event.
Wee said MBKS was also strengthening infrastructure and policies to better cater to an ageing population, including dedicated parking spaces for senior citizens at markets.
He further said such facilities would be extended to shopping malls and other public areas.
“We cannot deny this fact — in 2028, Sarawak is going to be an ageing city.
“So we have to get ourselves prepared. Two years is not long, it’s going to be here, so everything has to be geared up very fast,” he added.
He also urged families to spend more time with elderly parents, particularly as more senior citizens were vulnerable to scams through mobile phones and other technology.
“The kids should spend more time with them. Talk to them. Then they will tell you what is happening,” he said.
Wee said having a maid or caregiver could help with daily needs but could not replace the role of children in maintaining close family relationships.
On the Cheongsam Festival, Wee said this was the third time the organisers had achieved an MBOR record, although the categories differed for each record.
He said the event had initially targeted 500 senior citizens, but participation exceeded the target with 520 taking part.
“The oldest participants are in their 80s. All those on stage are 80-over-years-old. Maintained well, right? That’s why I say age is just a number,” he said.
Also present were MBKS deputy mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili and 4th Cheongsam Festival organising chairperson Chong Ling Ling. — DayakDaily
