By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Jan 21: Proceeds totalling RM183,270 were raised during the ‘Malaysia-Korea Charity Gala Night: Uniting for a Sustainable Tomorrow’ held at Damai Lagoon Resort here last night.
These proceeds were pledged by the guests on the spot as an attempt to persuade the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to sing a song at the event.
At that time, Malaysian singer Jaclyn Victor had just finished her performance and told the audience that a big surprise would come up.
The emcee named Gary, then took over the stage and explained that there were several requests from the floor to have Abang Johari show off his singing skills.
As the emcee waited for Abang Johari’s response, the guests started to pledge their financial donations to the charity dinner, with Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Datuk Wira Lorna Enan Muloon Chan and OCIM Sdn Bhd contributing RM50,000 each.
In support of the cause, Abang Johari then made his way to the stage and performed the famous Iban song ‘Bekikis Bulu Betis’ and a Malay classic ‘Yale Yale Yale’ together with Jaclyn and State leaders.
Organised by Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) and OCIM Sdn Bhd, the gala night aimed to raise funds for Yayasan Ilmu Sarawak to provide scholarships to study in Korea and Sarawak, the formation of “Green Generation” to spearhead charity activities in promoting green energy and education, and to help improve the care of mentally and physically challenged children and families at PERKATA Sarawak.
Apart from Jaclyn, other entertainers of the night included Korean artistes, namely singer Kim DaHyun, musical band OCI Dream Ensemble and traditional Korean musical band Nanta Group, as well as Malaysian artistes, namely Sarawak contemporary band Alu Alu Band and dancers from Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV).
Also present were Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Husain, former Sarawak’s Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam, OCI Holdings chairman Lee WooHyun, and Malaysia-Korea Charity Gala Night’s co-organising chairpersons Puan Sri Datin Amar Nur Ashima Aziz and Dr Kim SooYeon. — DayakDaily
