KUCHING, Oct 25: Kuching Teokhiaw Club’s Kuching-China Ancestral Home Tour which is ongoing from Oct 25 to Nov 1, holds particular significance as it aligns with the 10th anniversary of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and next year’s 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, a testament to the enduring connection between cultures.
According to a press release issued by Teokhiaw Club secretary Dato Sim Kiang Chiok, on the morning of Oct 25, over 40 enthusiastic members departed from Kuching International Airport, for the start of their adventure at Jieyang Airport in Chaoshan District.
“After a three-year hiatus due to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Kuching Teokhiaw Club is delighted to announce the resumption of the Teochew ancestral roots-seeking tour for 2023.
“The 2023 Teochew ancestral roots-seeking tour, organised by the Teokhiaw Club, is an 8-day and 7-night expedition. It will encompass family visits, cultural exchanges, business and social visits in the historically rich cities of Chaozhou, Chaoan, Shantou, and Jieyang.
“These cities hold a deep cultural heritage, offering a profound experience. Since 2005, the Teokhiaw Club has organised more than 10 root-seeking tours, along with summer and winter camp activities, garnering enthusiastic responses from Teochew communities across Sarawak,” the club said in the press release.
It said these initiatives have built a strong foundation for fostering friendly exchanges between Sarawak and China.
“Notably, Teokhiaw Club celebrated its 102nd anniversary on August 19, marking its rich history as one of the city’s longstanding associations, which has witnessed the city’s evolution through various stages.
“True to its founding principles, the club continues to connect people from all corners of Sarawak, actively promoting Teochew arts, including gongs and drums, opera, music, and folk arts.
“In recent years, the club’s Teochew Orchestra has been dedicated to training young talents, who have become a part of various social celebration performances, earning wide acclaim.”
It continued, “The head of the Teochew Orchestra takes this opportunity to extend an invitation to people and teenagers interested in learning Teochew gongs and drums, opera, music, and folk arts.
“For details and to participate in the free lesson, please call Ms. Pung at 012-8865396 and Mr. Sim at 019-8197558.” — DayakDaily
