SIBU: The Sibu Teochew Association (STA), in collaboration with the JKKK Teochew Sibu District, held their 2025 Chinese New Year (CNY) Open House at the premises of the Sibu Red Crescent Society on Awang Ramli Amit Road last Sunday (Feb 2).
The atmosphere was filled with joy and a new spirit. Hundreds of well-wishers from various communities and family members thronged the venue.
In his welcoming remarks, STA chairman Kapitan Su Ngio Kee thanked the guests and friends from all races for their support.
“We are deeply grateful for the love and support of our guests and friends from different communities. Your presence has added to the grandeur of this event, making it even more vibrant and lively. It truly reflects the spirit of unity in our multicultural society, where we are all part of one big family. I am honoured and delighted to witness this harmony,” he said.
According to him, CNY, also known as “Guo Nian” or the “Spring Festival,” is the most important and grandest traditional festival for the Chinese community.
He described it not only as a time for family reunions and shared joy but also as a symbol of unity, harmony, hope, and positive energy.
“No matter where we are, this festival brings us together, strengthening family bonds and ensuring that our rich Chinese cultural heritage is passed down from generation to generation.”
Believing that all agree that CNY celebrations in Sibu are among the most heartfelt and warmest, he pointed out that during this festive season, people from all ethnic backgrounds visit each other, exchange greetings, and give gifts, fostering goodwill and friendship.
This tradition of mutual visits and cultural interactions has strengthened our social bonds, enhanced understanding and respect among different communities, and built lasting trust and unity, he said, adding that without the need for government funding, these grassroots interactions have successfully promoted cultural exchange, eased misunderstandings, and truly embodied the spirit of “We Are One Family.”
Su also highlighted that this spirit of unity is the foundation of a stable, cohesive, and harmonious society.
“Therefore, let us cherish and uphold these invaluable relationships so that they may continue for generations to come. This gathering is not just a celebration to welcome the new year but also a starting point for us to envision a brighter future together.
“As the saying goes, ‘A year’s plan starts in spring’. With the New Year, we have renewed enthusiasm, determination, and dreams. Let us move forward together with confidence, hand in hand, to create new milestones and greater achievements,” he said.
Su sincerely hoped that the leaders, state and federal representatives, government officials, community leaders, and business elites would work together, setting aside their differences and prejudices, and fostering mutual understanding and inclusivity.
“May we all embrace the agility and wisdom of the golden snake in this Year of the Snake, seizing every opportunity to inject new energy into the economic, educational, and cultural development of Sibu. With unity and shared goals, we can create a glorious new chapter for our community,” Su added.
Also present were Bukit Assek assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek; Sibu Municipal Council Chairman, Clarence Ting Ing Horth; and STA Honorary Advisor, Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee.
