A large crowd gathered at St Nicholas Home (SNH) in Jalan Bagan Jermal, Penang for the annual food carnival despite the heavy rain that began at 10am. Attendees remained undeterred from indulging in their favorite food and beverages.
Carnival-goers tucking in during the event; — Photos ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
The food carnival featured popular delicacies such as char koay teow, satay, burgers, and nasi lemak. It also offered a variety of snacks, pastries, and cookies that quickly sold out.
Visitors needed to purchase coupons in order to enjoy the food and drinks available for sale. Apart from the culinary delights, SNH residents had set up booths selling shirts and provided services like reflexology.
The event also hosted various stage performances, including talented SNH residents.
People queuing up for char koay teow at the fair held at St Nicholas Home in Jalan Bagan Jermal in Pulau Tikus, Penang.
Carmen Chew, the general manager of SNH, stated that the food carnival attracted around 2,000 visitors, most of whom were regular attendees every year. The purpose of the event was to raise funds for SNH, as it relies on public donations to sustain its operations.
“The sale of coupons raised approximately RM110,000,” said Chew. She further explained that visually impaired individuals trained at SNH also contributed to the fundraising efforts by offering massage services.
In addition to the food carnival, SNH maintains a wellness center where its visually impaired trainees provide massages. The organization also operates a cafe, managed by SNH interns and staff.
An artist drawing a caricature of one of the visitors.
Muhamad Faris Nasrullah Fauzi, a trainee at SNH for the past year, shared that he has acquired massage skills during his time there. He expressed optimism that this new skill would allow him to generate income and achieve independence despite his visual impairment.
Faris lost partial sight at the age of 15 after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. Apart from learning massage proficiency, he has also acquired computer skills at SNH.
Also in attendance were Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo Sze Zeng and Penang Island City Council mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
