By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 29: “The most important thing in life is to be happy”, said former deputy chief minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam with a warm smile as he celebrated his 88th birthday in grand style at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) last night (Aug 28) together with his wife Datin Patinggi Datuk Wira Lorna Enan Muloon-Chan.
The grand event, meticulously themed around traditional Chinese culture, transported attendees into the tranquil ambiance of a classical Chinese garden, all within the modern expanse of BCCK.
The red carpet leading into the venue set the tone for the evening, as guests, elegantly dressed in black tie, dark suits, and evening dresses, strolled through the carefully recreated garden, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Inside, the main hall was a stunning visual spectacle. The backdrop featured an auspicious ‘88’ symbol, emphasising the significance of Dr Chan’s milestone birthday.
In Chinese culture, the number eight is considered extremely lucky, symbolising prosperity, success, and happiness. The repetition of the number doubles its auspiciousness, making the 88th birthday a particularly momentous occasion.
The evening’s programme began with a traditional Chinese drum performance, in which a group of young performers dressed in bright red and gold created a powerful rhythm that echoed throughout the hall, setting the tone for a night of celebration.
During the birthday cake-cutting ceremony, all eyes were drawn to the magnificent 8-foot-long cake, adorned with a massive ‘88’ cake topper.
Adding to the cultural richness of the evening was the presence of a table adorned with a beautifully arranged display of longevity buns, a traditional Chinese symbol of long life.
These buns, shaped and coloured to resemble peaches, were accompanied by an artful arrangement of ginger and other auspicious ingredients, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions that were honoured throughout the celebration.
The night was filled with exquisite cuisine, heartfelt speeches, and the sharing of cherished memories, as friends, family, and colleagues from across the years came together to honour a man who has made significant contributions to the state of Sarawak and its people.
As the celebration neared its conclusion, the former deputy chief minister’s thank-you speech, while brief, reflected the wisdom of a life well spent.
“I think the most important thing is that we are happy. Whatever we do, be happy. Whatever we think of doing, be happy. The most important thing in life, I think, is to be happy and to have a lot of friends,” he repeated, a simple yet powerful reminder that struck a chord with everyone present.
The event was attended by various dignitaries and officials, including Sarawak Head of State (TYT), Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi; Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang; Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas; and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. — DayakDaily
