The Moment
Cherish every moment
Wednesday, March 05, 2025
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Celebrating 36 Years of Friendship: A Memorable MGSS Reunion 55
We were warmly welcomed by one of our esteemed hosts, Rozita, who opened the event with a beautiful pantun. Following that, we had the pleasure of hearing an inspiring opening speech from our head girl, Sally Wong. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sally for her memorable and adventurous speech, which left a lasting impression and set the perfect tone for our reunion.
The Spirit of Togetherness: The atmosphere was charged with excitement and warmth as we greeted each other with open arms. The hotel buzzed with nostalgic conversations as we fondly recalled our days at MGSS. Each face radiated joy, reflecting the rekindled bonds that had weathered the test of time. This event was not just a reunion but a celebration of our friendships, memories, and shared experiences that have shaped who we are today. From the moment we walked into the beautifully decorated venue, it was clear that this day was going to be special. The organizers had thoughtfully planned every detail, ensuring that the event would be one to remember. As the reunion unfolded, it became a beautiful testament to the enduring friendships we built during our school years.
A Gift for Everyone: Sharing Love and Luck One of the highlights of the day was the lucky draw, where every single attendee was showered with gifts of love, ensuring that no one left empty-handed. The spirit of giving and camaraderie was palpable as each classmate eagerly awaited their turn. From beautiful souvenirs to thoughtful mementos, the gifts symbolized the love and connection we shared. Whether it was a lucky draw prize or a special door gift, we all walked away with something meaningful. This act of sharing reinforced the sense of unity and care that has defined our friendships for decades. It was a heartwarming gesture that made the day even more memorable.
The Best Traditional Attire Contest: A Cultural and Heritage Affair:Adding to the fun and excitement of the day was the Best Traditional Attire Contest. With a focus on celebrating culture and heritage, we donned traditional outfits that reflected Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity. From elegant baju kurung and kebaya to vibrant sarees and cheongsams, the colorful display of attire was a true celebration of our multicultural heritage. As we proudly paraded our outfits, it became more than just a contest; it was a tribute to the cultural legacy we each carry. The competition was fierce yet friendly, with classmates cheering one another on. The winner was not only recognized for their stunning outfit but also for embracing and honoring our cultural roots.
Bonding Over Games and Laughter: The organizers had thoughtfully planned various group games that brought us all together. These activities transported us back to our school days, filled with laughter and joy. The lively games added a sense of fun to the afternoon, creating new memories to cherish alongside the old. Laughter and playful banter echoed as we all participated, reminding us of the carefree days of our youth when our biggest concerns were school assignments and who would win the next round of a game.
Nostalgia in Every Bite: The Joy of Sharing a Meal: :A sumptuous meal was served, providing the perfect opportunity for us to relax and catch up with one another. As we shared our meal, old memories resurfaced, and stories flowed freely. Our conversations were filled with laughter as we recalled mischievous antics, favorite teachers, and unforgettable moments from MGSS. The food itself was a delightful blend of local and international flavors, catering to our diverse tastes. Yet, it was the act of sharing the meal with old friends that made it truly special. The simple joy of sitting down to eat together, just like in the school canteen years ago, beautifully reminded us of the bond we share.
Unforgettable Souvenirs: Gifts of Love :As tokens of appreciation, each attendee received beautifully crafted Terengganu batik and a bar of soap as door gifts. These thoughtful souvenirs were symbols of the lasting connection between us. The batik, with its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, represented the uniqueness of each individual in our group, while the soap symbolized the purity of our friendship that has endured through the years. The Magic of Reminiscing Throughout the day, the magic of reminiscing was evident. Conversations flowed effortlessly as we shared stories from our school years, reflecting on our favorite teachers, the pranks we played, and the friendships we formed. Each story was a window into the past, allowing us to relive the moments that shaped our youth.
A Lifetime of Treasured Memories: As the reunion drew to a close, a collective sense of gratitude filled the air. We felt thankful for the friendships that have stood the test of time, for the memories we created, and for the chance to reconnect after so many years. This day was not just about reliving the past but also about celebrating the present and looking forward to the future. The class of 1986 left Ames Hotel with hearts full of joy and minds brimming with cherished memories. We had rekindled old friendships and created new memories that would be treasured for a lifetime. Reunion 55 served as a beautiful reminder that, no matter where life takes us, the bond we share will always endure. Ultimately, it was more than just a reunion; it was a celebration of our friendship, love, and the enduring power of shared memories—precious moments that will linger in our hearts forever.
Acknowledgments :
We also express our heartfelt appreciation to Ames Hotel for their supportive guidance and assistance in facilitating our reunion.
To those whose names we may have unintentionally missed, we
sincerely apologize. There are far too many to mention, but your contributions
have not gone unnoticed. If we have made any mistakes, please forgive us, and
know that our gratitude is always with each of you. Let us conclude with a well-known Malay poem, which beautifully captures the essence of farewell and hope for future meetings:
"If there is a well in the field,
Let us stop by and bathe,
If we are granted long life,
We may meet again someday."
Till we meet again..!
Saturday, August 10, 2024
The 2024 Melon to Million Initiative
"From a seed of hope to a harvest of prosperity,
the Melon to Million initiative turns united dreams into sustainable realities."
The 2024 Melon to Million initiative by the Malacca Government is far more than just a program—it is a shared vision of prosperity, hope, and sustainability for Malaysia. My three words to describe the initiative are United (Bersatu), Million (Juta) and Hope or Dream (Harapan). At its heart of these three guiding principles of United, Million, and Hope, which reflect the initiative’s mission to empower aspiring entrepreneurs and tackle the critical challenges of food security and environmental sustainability.
Left to Right Depan: Angie, Prof. Madya Dr. Siti Zaharah Hj. Sakimin Pengarah, Pusat Pertanian Putra, Ann Lim Yock Eng
From the 5th to the 9th of August, we had the privilege of participating in this transformative program at UPM, Serdang, Selangor. Each day began with a warm, hearty breakfast that fueled our excitement for the day ahead. The program was meticulously crafted, providing us with invaluable knowledge from 9 am to 5 pm, while also treating us to delicious and authentic meals throughout the day, including lunch, tea, and dinner.

United (Bersatu) captures the essence of the collective effort and shared vision that form the backbone of this initiative. The Melon to Million program brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common goal: to achieve success and make a meaningful impact on our communities. This unity was palpable throughout the workshop, where we built a strong network of entrepreneurs who supported and uplifted one another, embodying the collaborative spirit essential for sustainable growth.
Million (Juta) symbolizes the immense potential and ambitious goals of the initiative. It represents not only the financial success that participants can achieve but also the countless opportunities created through this program. The knowledge and resources we received during the workshop equipped us with the tools needed to generate a ripple effect of prosperity, extending beyond individual businesses and contributing to the overall economic development of Malacca. The emphasis on food security, a pressing issue in our country, was particularly enlightening. We gained invaluable insights into achieving self-sustainability to prevent potential food security crises and learned the importance of mindful practices in managing food, clean water and waste management resources.
Hope (Harapan) is the driving force behind this initiative, inspiring us to dream big and persevere despite challenges. Throughout the week, we were deeply touched by the generosity and thoughtfulness of the UPM staffs and professors, who selflessly shared their extensive knowledge and wisdom with us. Their guidance instilled in us the confidence and optimism needed to turn our dreams into reality.
The Melon to Million initiative stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when we unite with a shared purpose, driven by hope and a commitment to creating lasting change. As we look to the future, Malacca is not only cultivating a new generation of successful entrepreneurs but also laying the groundwork for a future filled with opportunity, prosperity, and hope. We leave this workshop not just better informed but truly inspired to contribute to the sustainability and success of our nation.
Key insights:
Prof. Madya Ts. Dr. Aimrun Wayoyok, a lecturer in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering at Universiti Putra Malaysia, has articulated a profound approach to gaining wisdom through a structured process that begins with the gathering of data, followed by the analysis of information, the acquisition of knowledge, and culminating in the attainment of wisdom. Here’s an explanation of each step in this process:
- Concept: Data represents the raw, unprocessed facts and figures that are collected from observations, experiments, or surveys. It is the starting point of any analysis.
- Example: In agricultural research, data could include soil moisture levels, temperature readings, or crop yield measurements gathered during a study.
2. Information
- Concept: Information is derived from data when it is processed, organized, or interpreted in a way that provides context and meaning. It helps us understand the significance of the raw data.
- Example: When the collected soil moisture levels are analyzed over time and compared with temperature readings, the resulting information might reveal patterns or trends in how these variables interact.
3. Knowledge
- Concept: Knowledge is the understanding and insights gained from the analyzed information. It involves interpreting the information to draw conclusions and make informed decisions.
- Example: Based on the information about soil moisture and temperature, knowledge might include an understanding of the optimal conditions for crop growth or the impact of climate variables on yield.
4. Wisdom
- Concept: Wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge with discernment and foresight. It involves making sound decisions that consider broader implications and long-term consequences.
- Example: With the knowledge of optimal growing conditions, wisdom would be using that understanding to implement sustainable farming practices that ensure long-term soil health and food security.
Gaining Wisdom: The Flow
Prof. Madya Ts. Dr. Aimrun explains that wisdom is gained through a sequential flow:
- Start with Data: Collect raw data through systematic observation and measurement.
- Analyze Information: Process and analyze the data to extract meaningful information.
- Acquire Knowledge: Interpret the information to develop a deep understanding of the subject.
- Attain Wisdom: Use the knowledge gained to make informed, ethical, and impactful decisions that benefit society and the environment.
Summary:
Through this process, wisdom is not just about knowing; it’s about applying knowledge in ways that are thoughtful, ethical, and beneficial in the long term. This structured approach ensures that decisions are made with a comprehensive understanding of the data, informed by knowledge, and guided by wisdom.
United in spirit, a future so bright.
Acknowledgment
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Government of Malacca for their unwavering support and visionary leadership in championing this initiative. Our heartfelt thanks also go to University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, the Ministry of Agriculture, KMK Agro Global Sdn Bhd, Agrobank, and the many other organizations whose systematic professional management has been pivotal to the success of this program. Though there are too many to name individually, we are profoundly honored to have been part of this initiative and remain committed to continuing this journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Understanding Dementia: Insights from Dr. Tay Hui Sian
"To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors." - Tia Walker
In Malaysia, the rise of dementia
cases is a growing concern. Recent statistics reveal that approximately 50,000
Malaysians are currently living with dementia, a number expected to triple by
2050. This alarming increase underscores the urgent need for awareness, early
diagnosis, and effective management of this condition.
Last Sunday morning, 14th July, 2024, at 11 am, at Wesley Methodist Church, Tengkera, Melaka, we had the privilege of attending a highly informative and engaging talk by Dr. Tay Hui Sian, a renowned Geriatric and Internal Medicine Consultant from Pantai Hospital, Melaka, Malaysia, Titled "Can You Find My Grandfather? He Is Missing: Everything You Need to Know About Dementia," the session shed light on the alarming growth of dementia patients in Malaysia and aimed to raise awareness about this critical health issue within our community.
Pastor Danny bestowed a heartfelt gift of appreciation upon Dr. Tay, honoring her with gratitude and recognition for her invaluable contributions
The Alarming Rise of Dementia
Dr. Tay began by highlighting the increasing prevalence of dementia in Malaysia, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this growing concern. The risk factors contributing to dementia were outlined as follows:
Risk Factors for Dementia:
- Increasing age (1 in 14 people over 65, 1 in 6 over 80)
- Family history of dementia
- Female gender
- Low socioeconomic status and less education
- Social isolation
- Alcohol and smoking
- Physical inactivity or obesity
- Depression and anxiety
- Hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, Parkinson's disease, subdural hematoma, Vitamin B12/folate deficiency
- Hearing and vision impairment
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Dr. Tay emphasized the significance of diagnosing dementia early. She explained that problems with memory and cognition might be caused by treatable conditions such as Vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid dysfunction, recurrent hypoglycemia, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, causes of confusion could stem from poor sight or hearing, emotional changes, side effects of certain drugs, or combinations of drugs.
How is Dementia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing dementia involves a comprehensive approach, including:
- Detailed History: Assessing the onset, duration, and impact of symptoms on daily living from both patients and caregivers.
- Physical Examination and Blood Tests: Conducting tests (FBC, biochemical profile, LFT, HbA1c, lipids, TFT, B12, Folate) to exclude other possible causes of symptoms.
- Mental Ability Tests: Evaluating language, memory, and thinking skills using tools like the MMSE and MOCA.
- Imaging Tests: Utilizing CT or MRI head scans.
Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia
As dementia progresses, patients often experience changes in behavior and feelings, which can be more distressing than memory loss. These symptoms can significantly affect both patients and caregivers, leading to high caregiver stress, with one-third developing depression. Dr. Tay advised against blaming patients for their behavior and highlighted that symptoms could come and go over time.
Common Symptoms:
- Delusions and hallucinations
- Agitation and aggressive behavior
- Wandering and restlessness
- Anxiety and depression
To assess the causes of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), Dr. Tay recommended using the PINCH ME mnemonic:
- P: Pain
- I: Infection
- N: Nutrition
- C: Constipation
- H: Hydration
- M: Medication
- E: Environment
Complications of Dementia
Dementia affects multiple body systems, leading to complications such as malnutrition, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, inability to self-care, safety challenges, and increased risk of bedsores, constipation, or thrombosis due to long-term bed rest. Advanced dementia can eventually lead to coma and death caused by infections.
Aims of Dementia Treatment
Dr. Tay outlined the primary goals of dementia treatment:
- Maintaining longer independence and activities of daily living.
- Providing relief from distressing behavioral symptoms.
- Preserving cognitive performance.
Available Treatments
While there is no cure for dementia yet, treatments can help relieve some symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Dr. Tay discussed medications such as Rivastigmine, Donepezil, and Memantine. For vascular dementia, addressing risk factors like optimizing blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol levels, using blood thinners, quitting smoking, losing weight, and exercising are crucial. Additionally, drugs for depression or anxiety, sleeping tablets, or antipsychotics can be prescribed.
Reducing the Risk of Dementia
To reduce the risk of developing dementia, Dr. Tay recommended:
- Staying physically active
- Eating healthily
- Exercising the mind
- Being socially active
- Quitting smoking
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Managing diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity
- Treating depression and anxiety earlyDr. Tay graciously presented a gift to Dora Chong, the participant of the quiz 3.
Conclusion
Dr. Tay concluded the talk by emphasizing that dementia is common in older people but not a natural part of aging. Early symptoms are often overlooked, making early diagnosis crucial for effective treatment and improved quality of life. She encouraged the audience to recognize early symptoms and show love and care instead of blame.
We are deeply grateful for Dr. Tay's insightful talk and the thoughtful goodie bags she specially packed for the attendees. This session was a valuable step towards raising awareness and understanding of dementia within our community.
Light the Way:
A Poem to Raise Awareness of Dementia
On behalf of the organizing committee and all the attendees, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the contributors, sponsors, and participants who made the event "Can You Find My Grandfather? He Is Missing: Everything You Need to Know About Dementia" a resounding success. Your generous support, valuable insights, and active engagement have created a precious moment of joy and happiness that will be remembered for years to come.
We are particularly thankful to Dr. Tay Hui Sian, our esteemed speaker, for sharing her expertise and raising awareness about the critical issue of dementia. Her insights have enlightened us about the alarming rise of dementia cases in Malaysia and the importance of early diagnosis and effective management.
A special note of appreciation goes to Pastor Danny for bestowing a gift of appreciation upon Dr. Tay, honoring her with gratitude and recognition for her invaluable contributions.
We also acknowledge the Wesley Methodist Church, Tengkera, Melaka, for providing a welcoming venue for our event. The church's support and hospitality have been instrumental in creating a conducive environment for learning and sharing.
Our sincere thanks go to the photographers and videographers, especially Brother Kevin Chua & Brother Tan, for capturing the essence of the event with their great photography & video filming skills. Brother Kevin & Tan's talent and dedication have ensured that the memories of this event will be preserved for all to cherish.
Lastly, we express our deepest appreciation to all the sponsors and contributors who believed in the cause and supported us with their generosity. Your contributions have not only made the event possible but have also contributed to the broader mission of raising awareness about dementia and supporting those affected by it.
Together, we have taken a significant step towards understanding and addressing the challenges of dementia. Let us continue to support one another and work towards a future where everyone affected by dementia receives the care and support they deserve.
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Celebrating She Matters: A Tea with World Vision's President
We were honored to be invited for afternoon tea with Mr. Andrew Morley, the President of World Vision International. His presence was a testament to the importance of this cause and the global commitment to advocating for the rights of girls.
Highlighting
a Special Young Advocate
One of the highlights of the event
was the introduction of Yaru, a remarkable 17-year-old from Cambodia. Despite
her young age, Yaru has become a vocal advocate for children's rights in her
community. Her story of courage and determination was both inspiring and
moving, showcasing the profound impact that awareness and advocacy can have on
empowering young girls. Yaru's journey from a girl in Cambodia to an influential
speaker underscores the potential within every girl to become a leader and
change-maker.
Voices of Influence and Inspiration
The event also featured a compelling
address by Mr. Andrew Morley, who shared insights on the global initiatives and
successes of World Vision in supporting girls' rights. His speech emphasized
the importance of collective action and the need to support and uplift girls in
every corner of the world.
Moderating the event was Ms. Freda Liu, a renowned business broadcast journalist and child sponsor. Ms. Liu shared her personal experiences as a child sponsor, providing a heartfelt perspective on the profound difference sponsorship can make in the lives of children. Her stories highlighted the transformative power of support and the ripple effect it creates in communities.
A
Call to Action
"She Matters" was more
than just an event; it was a call to action for all attendees to join the
mission of advocating for girls' rights. The discussions and presentations
underscored the urgent need to create safe environments where girls can thrive
without fear. By investing in their education, health, and well-being, we pave
the way for a future where every girl can achieve her full potential.
Looking Forward
As we reflected on the day's events,
we were reminded of the importance of such gatherings in raising awareness and
fostering a global community committed to change. The stories shared, the
connections made, and the collective resolve to make a difference left a
lasting impact on all who attended.
We extend our gratitude to World Vision Malaysia for hosting this meaningful event and to all the speakers and participants for their contributions. Together, we can continue to uphold the rights of girls worldwide and ensure they live lives filled with hope, opportunity, and freedom from fear.
We look forward to future events and
initiatives that continue to shine a light on these crucial issues. Let us all
be champions for girls’ rights and advocates for a world where every girl
matters.
Acknowledgement
We extend our heartfelt thanks to World Vision Malaysia for hosting such a meaningful event, "She Matters." The sumptuous tea provided a perfect setting for a memorable and impactful afternoon.
A special thank you to all the sponsors who made this event possible with their generous support. We are deeply grateful to all the contributors who captured the event's essence through their wonderful pictures, with particular appreciation to Angel Cheang for her exceptional photography. Your efforts have beautifully documented this significant gathering, helping to spread the message that every girl matters.
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