President of Ipoh City Watch (ICW) and Chairman of Koperasi Hijau (KOHIJAU), Dr Richard Ng, hosted a Chinese New Year open house at his residence at Persiaran Bandar Baru Tambun on Friday, February 16.
Over a hundred guests comprising members of his non-governmental organisations were present to usher in the Chinese New Year of the Dog. They consisted of all ethnicities – Malays, Chinese, Indians and some foreigners.
Among the dignitaries were Dato’ Samsudin Abu Hassan, Executive Councillor for Consumer Affairs, Cooperatives, Non-Governmental Organisation and Civil Society and Dato’ Hajjah Rusnah Kassim, Executive Councillor for Women and Family Development, Community Care and Housing and Local Government. Also present were Kampar Umno Division Chief, Dato’ Radzi Manan and his wife Datin Normah Hanum.
Richard has been hosting the event every Chinese New Year since 2015 and this was his fourth open house.
“I welcome everyone regardless of their race and belief, as my objective is to share the New Year joy with all my friends. I take this opportunity to wish all Malaysians a Prosperous and Happy Chinese New Year. Let’s celebrate together and get to know the Chinese culture better,” he told Ipoh Echo.
The traditional Lou Sang or Prosperity Toss signalled the start of the joyous occasion followed by cake cutting. The sumptuous spread was very Malaysian in look and they included nasi minyak, ayam masak merah, kurma kambing, mee rebus, fruits and soft drinks.
Richard and his wife Tina gave away angpows, in traditional red packets, to children. The host and hostess bid farewell to all guests and reminded them that a similar gathering will take place next year.
Luqman Hakim
