Three-day business networking event doubles as fundraiser
The Federation of Taipu (Chha Yong) Associations (FTA) organized a gala dinner to celebrate their 50th anniversary. The dinner took place in Petaling Jaya and was part of the inaugural World Dabu Alliance, a three-day business networking event primarily attended by descendants of Hakka migrants from Dabu county, China.
Raymond Khue, the advisor of FTA’s youth wing, mentioned that the gala dinner was attended not only by 19 Taipu associations in Malaysia but also by delegations from Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, Hong Kong, and China.
Participants of the event had the opportunity to attend trade forums and visit the production bases of well-known local Hakka companies. Additionally, there was a three-day, four-night tour to Johor, Melaka, and Putrajaya.
(From left) Artist Meteor Lim and Pock Yau with a painting presented to Chor.
The first Taipu association in Malaysia was established in 1807 in Melaka. According to Raymond Khue, the purpose of forming these associations initially was to foster kinship and provide assistance to fellow kinsmen when needed.
Datuk Yong Seng Yeow, the executive advisor of FTA, explained that kinship was crucial during the old times when some migrants were minors traveling without their parents. It ensured their safety and wellbeing. He also mentioned that due to hardship, Taipu migrants were known for their resilience and thriftiness.
FTA was formed in 1973 to unite Taipu associations across various states as the community grew and flourished.
Guests at the gala dinner which included showcase of cultural performances (below).
The gala dinner was attended by guest of honor Deputy Finance Minister II Steven Sim and Star Media Group chairman Tan Sri Chor Chee Heung. FTA President Yong Pock Yau expressed gratitude to past presidents for their diligent efforts in ensuring the wellbeing of their kinsmen.
Pock Yau highlighted that besides welfare, education, and cultural activities, the association is now focusing on chambers of commerce and establishing industrial and commercial groups for future generations’ better future.
Bibi Lam, FTA vice-president and event organizing committee chairman, explained that the gala dinner served as a fundraising effort to raise RM5mil. The funds will be used to purchase property and generate passive income through rental, ensuring the sustainability of Taipu associations.
Lam also added that the gala dinner was not just a business networking opportunity but also a way to express gratitude to ancestors for their blessings. In his address, Deputy Finance Minister II Steven Sim highlighted the significance of the event coinciding with National and Malaysia Day celebrations.
During the event, association chiefs drank out of bowls instead of glasses for the customary toast. The event also featured an art auction and an attempt at creating the longest calligraphy scroll to be listed in the Malaysia Book of Records. Guests were invited to write messages of goodwill and congratulations on the scroll at the cocktail area.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
