By Shikin Louis
MIRI, Dec 16: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s name, styled as ‘Ang Jo’ in Chinese letters, has been inscribed as one of the 133 Chinese family surnames on top of a monument called ‘The Inheritance’ erected at the Miri City Fan Recreational Park here.
Abang Johari said Miri has broken the record in Malaysia for having the highest number of family surnames.
“There are about 500 (surnames recognised worldwide), and in the monument, there are about 133 surnames.
“Among the surnames, you have one honorary clan member, ‘Ang Jo’. They gave me this inscription, so I am now a member of your clan,” he said when officiating the 20th World Xu Clannish Gala Night held at Pullman Hotel tonight.
The Miri Division Koh Yang Xu Clan Association contributed the monument in conjunction with the 20th World Xu Clan Convention held in Miri from Dec 15 to 17.
In the evening, Abang Johari witnessed the handing over of the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) certificate from MBOR senior operations officer Lee Pooi Leng during the inauguration ceremony of erecting the monument.
According to a press release, The Inheritance monument means inheriting the ethics, inspiration, and mission of wise ancestors and initiating the modern generations into the legacy of the wise to inspire a larger community.
The monument was shaped like a lateen sail and leaf to symbolise the Chinese tradition of pursuing the future while keeping the past’s teaching and culture in mind.
“Yachts, one of the most important means of transportation in Chinese history, represent the long history and tradition of Chinese culture. Not only were they the carriers of the culture of trade, but they also facilitated communications and collaborations among regions. Therefore, a yacht is regarded as the symbol of carrying and conveying Chinese culture.
“Leaves are the symbol of life, representing rebirth and growth. It is included into the design to bring out the meaning of continuous development and growth of culture-a symbol of future hope and prosperity,” it said. — DayakDaily
