By Anne Das
The annual Tan Sri Jeyaratnam Charity Cup & Charity Day 2025 returned on Sunday, blending the excitement of the races with support for local NGOs. First introduced in 1988, it has since become a long-standing tradition at Perak Turf Club, combining race day thrills with meaningful contributions to the community.
The gathering welcomed 60 invited guests, a mix of sponsors, supporters, and friends of PTC who have stood by this annual tradition. From the exclusivity of the David Jeyaratnam Lounge, they experienced the event in style, with the best vantage point of the races and the lively spirit of the day.
Guests were then treated to a hearty lunch catered by Little Katong. A special highlight followed when Ooi Tek Yi, an Ipoh-born concertmaster of the Kinta Valley Symphonic Society, performed a violin solo. Having recently appeared at Dewan Philharmonic Petronas, his presence brought something memorable to the afternoon.
The focus then shifted to the track for the Charity Cup Race 2025, where Arigato, trained by S.Y. Lim and ridden by jockey K.C. Wong, powered to victory. Owned by Neo Stable, the horse secured the coveted trophy and a stake of RM100K, drawing cheers from those watching.
Following the race, donation cheques totalling RM100,000 were presented to 26 Perak NGOs. Among the beneficiaries were St John’s Ambulance Perak, the Perak Palliative Care Centre, and the National Stroke Association, to name a few. The wide range of recipients reflected the impact of this annual tradition across different sectors of the community.
“Every year we come together to support those who dedicate their lives to serving others. It is about recognising their work and strengthening their ability to continue making an impact. For us at Perak Turf Club, it is an honour to stand alongside these organisations and contribute to the community,” said Chairman Dato’ John Lim.
He highlighted the success of the PWW Baking School, where single mothers are building sustainable livelihoods and have even been chosen by Mercedes-Benz Ipoh to cater their corporate events. The PWW Baking Team also prepared the high tea at this year’s Charity Cup, giving guests a taste of their talents.
“When we support initiatives like the PWW Baking School, we are giving women the chance to turn skills into sustainable livelihoods. Today, their high tea was not only enjoyed by our guests but also showed what they are capable of achieving. We should all follow their example and continue to support them, because when they succeed, the community succeeds,” said Dato’ John Lim.
The atmosphere lifted again with the grand prize lucky draw, where one guest walked away with an exclusive dinner for two at The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat & Spa worth RM1,500. Applause and excitement filled the lounge, adding to the festive spirit of the afternoon.
The day concluded with a colourful high tea spread prepared by the PWW Baking Team. Guests and NGO representatives mingled over cakes and savoury bites, closing the Charity Day on a warm and celebratory note.
The Tan Sri Jeyaratnam Charity Cup 2025 closed on a note of purpose, making way for the Chairman’s vision ahead.
“With renovations of our sports complex underway, we are building a Turf Club that serves racing, leisure, and the wider community. The Charity Cup is proof of how sport can give back, and we will continue to strengthen this tradition for future generations. That is why Perak Turf Club will always be, in every sense, ‘More Than Racing,’” said Dato’ John Lim.
