Sibu people have hearts of gold and donate generously
I have wanting to write about this unique feature of Sibu for some time but I kept putting it off. So, when this article was posted in the Borneo Post, I just had to put it on the blog.
The Borneo Post doesn’t have this link although I searched for it. I could have made a mistake or perhaps they are selective as to posts they put online…the more important ones possibly but do visit it sometimes to catch up on what’s happening here.
It started in the 1950’s when philanthropist Chew Geok Lin used to go to the market every Sunday and rang a bell as he cruised around the market. Shopkeepers and hawkers alike donated food, vegetables and meat alike to him by putting it in his basket.
They did this as they knew it was for a good cause. All the food collected is used to feed the elderly citizens living at the Sibu Benevolent Society’s Home.
Later on, this tradition passed on to his son, Penghulu Chew Peng Ann and now it has been continued through his son, Robert.
Next time, you are in Sibu, visit the market and see him in action with about a score or so selfless volunteers making their weekly rounds. With proper storage, there is probably enough food to feed the citizens for the whole week.
Sibu, a caring community.
it’s for good cause.. but there’re some people who don’t want to work although they’re physically healthy and asking donation around.
While that is true, I have absolute confidence in Robert and his gang. I have helped myself in the centre and at the Jalan Oya old folks home. Believe me, every little bit helps.
We are still wondering how to help them for this coming Chinese new Year. Old folks shouldn’t be neglected at this time. I share with you some thing. We can donate material stuff etc but what they need most is for us to listen, to talk to them and touch their lives
that’s a pretty neat idea. good for you, sibu people!
Thanks philters
well done, sibu.
[...] from archives This group of men are well known especially at the Central Market. They collect contributions from [...]