As I pen this post, I find myself reflecting on the profound journey of the past year till now. It has been a time filled with both sorrow and healing, as I’ve faced the heart-wrenching loss of several near and dear ones. Each passing has left an indelible mark on my heart, and penning some of their obituaries has been a bittersweet process. While it has often brought tears to the eyes, it has also offered a sense of closure, allowing us to celebrate their lives and the moments we shared.
Writing about loved ones who have passed is a poignant reminder of the fragile beauty of life. It forces us to confront the reality of our mortality and the inevitable cycle of life and death. In doing so, we learn that grief is not just an expression of sadness; it is also an act of love. Each word written has served as a tribute to their legacies, a way to keep their memories alive in our hearts and those of others.
Auntie Rose with Auntie Leela, Auntie Rosie, Auntie Lian Pek, Auntie Harjit and friends were badminton regulars in Kuala Terengganu
In the midst of this journey of remembrance, I am reminded of the Chinese tradition of Cheng Beng, or Ching Ming, which is a time for honouring ancestors and loved ones who have gone before us. This festival, often marked by families visiting gravesites, cleaning tombs, and making offerings, is a beautiful expression of love and respect. It serves as a powerful reminder that while our loved ones may no longer be with us in body, their spirits continue to guide and inspire us.
As we gather to pay tribute during Cheng Beng, we not only honour those who have passed but also reaffirm the bonds that connect us through generations. It’s a time to reflect on the lessons they imparted, the laughter we shared, and the love that remains etched in our hearts.
I encourage anyone who has experienced loss to embrace the process of remembrance. Whether through writing, visiting a gravesite, or simply sharing stories with family and friends, we can find solace in honouring those we have loved and lost. Life is indeed a circle, and in our memories, our beloved ones continue to live on, shaping who we are and how we navigate the world.
Let us cherish the time we have and celebrate the lives of those who have touched our hearts. In doing so, we not only heal ourselves but also keep their spirits alive in our lives.
Today, we gather with heavy hearts to celebrate the life of our beloved Aunty Rose. While her passing leaves an emptiness that words cannot fill, I know she would want us to remember her with smiles, laughter, and maybe even a little dancing — because that was who she was.
Aunty Rose was a woman who lived life fully and joyfully. She was jovial, lovable, kind, and generous — always ready to lend a helping hand, to listen, and to care. She had a way of making everyone around her feel special, valued, and loved. You could never walk away from a conversation with her without feeling a little lighter, a little happier.
And oh, how she loved to dance and sing. If music was playing — and sometimes even when it wasn’t — she would be up, moving to the rhythm, pulling others in to join her. She was not one to sit quietly and complain. No, she would say, “Why mope when you can dance it off?”
Her cheerfulness was contagious, her laughter filled every room she entered, and her advice — which she always had ready — was a mix of wisdom, love, and a little bit of playful sarcasm. She had a wonderful way of telling you what you needed to hear, whether you were ready to hear it or not — and somehow, you would still end up laughing about it.
Aunty Rose was also generous to a fault — not just with things, but with her time, her energy, and her love. She would give you her last piece of cake, though she might joke, “Maybe just half, let’s not be too dramatic.”
Today, as we say goodbye, let us remember the lessons she taught us without ever needing to speak them — to love deeply, to laugh often, to dance whenever you can, and to face life’s challenges with courage and a smile.
Though she may no longer be with us in person, her spirit — her laughter, her kindness, her songs — will live on in each of us. I like to think she’s somewhere now, already turning heaven into her dance floor, reminding the angels to sing a little louder.
Rest in peace, dear Aunty Rose. Thank you for the love, the laughter, and the unforgettable joy you brought into all our lives. You will never be forgotten.
As we take a step back to honour, arguably, the more important 50 per cent of our humankind, let us still ourselves to recognise two super centenarians, who may be forgotten to many in our faith community, but who still live a life of purpose in the twilight years of their lives.
Loh Siew In, baptismal name Cecilia, was born on 31st August 1920. Her parents were Benedict Loh and Genevieve Lee. She was the eighth child in a large family.
She realised a call to religious life at the age of 20 but owing to the outbreak of the Second World War, this was not realised until hostilities ceased.
She entered the novitiate of Petite Soeurs de Pauvres (Little Sisters of Poor), a congregation established by Sister Jeane Marie Jugan in 1839, to care for the many impoverished elderly living in the streets of Paris.
Loh took vows of chastity, poverty, obedience and hospitality and the name Sister Alexis de Ste Madeliene at the mother chapter house of Saint Pern in France. She speaks fluent French.
Pope Bendict XVI canonised Saint Jeane Jugan in October 2019.
Today the Little Sisters of the Poor continues its mission of providing care for the elderly, especially those who find themselves without family and cannot care for themselves. They look after thousands of elderly in over 30 countries around the globe including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Morocco, Taiwan, Hong Kong, India and the Philippines.
The Holy Family Home for the Elderly on Batu Lanchang Road in Penang, was built on land generously donated by philanthropist Aw Boon Par (Tiger Balm) and has provided sterling work for the sometimes forgotten elderly in the northern region, together with its sister home, in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.
Both are charitable homes, entirely funded by public and corporate donations.
In her time, Sister Alexis served as a member of the congregation in the homes in New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong and France and recalls with affection and pride her many adventures.
When she herself retired, Sister Alexis returned to Penang and now resides in the Holy Family Home for the Elderly in Penang, where she is its oldest resident.
Always dressed in the immaculate starched white habit , and sitting slightly bent over in her wheelchair, Sister Alexis still adheres to a daily personal routine and private prayer despite her years.
She has hearing issues, but has sufficient sight to appreciate when visitors call on her; she has good memory and is able to hold a conversation well.
Overall, she is blessed with good health including some scary times during the pandemic years of 2019 – 2022, when the entire home and community was in lockdown, owing to Covid cases among the residents and staff.
Sister Alexis’ birthday is always well celebrated as it falls on Merdeka Day, with a special Thanksgiving Mass in the chapel followed by a simple reception attended by the religious, priests, residents and of course her own family members.
She has a sister Lucy, who is three years younger, also staying at a residential home in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Last year their family specially arranged for the two centenarian sisters to meet up in PJ to celebrate Lucy’s birthday. Her niece Dorothy organised for a special ambulance service to bring Sister Alexis from Penang to PJ, stay overnight in a service apartment and then return.
By God’s grace, everything went smoothly.
Her hospitality extends to all around her and she will readily intercede for you in her prayers.
Sister Alexis looks forward to her 105th birth anniversary this year 2025, the Jubilee Year of Hope.
May God Bless her.
Ends.
by Marina Emmanuel
Datin Seri Dr. Eleanor Eu: A Pioneer in Medicine
Datin Seri Dr. Eleanor Eu has made remarkable strides in the field of medicine, dedicating her life to healing and caring for others.
Her journey has been one of resilience, marked by her relentless pursuit of knowledge and her commitment to patient care.
“Prescriptions of Faith” is a book which chronicles the remarkable journeys of two distinguished doctors, (Eleanor and her late husband, Datuk Seri Dr. Peter Tan Ewe Aik) whose paths crossed amid the turmoil of war.
Set against the backdrop of Hong Kong and China during the late 1930s and early 1940s, this compelling tale begins in 1939 with Eleanor, a young woman from Kuala Lumpur, who embarks on a voyage from Malaysia to the esteemed University of Hong Kong in pursuit of her medical degree.
Two years later, her future husband, Peter arrives from Penang at the same university, mere months before the outbreak of World War II in Asia.
Unbeknownst to each other, both Eleanor and Peter found the escalating tensions of a war-torn Hong Kong unbearable.
In August 1942, Eleanor made the brave decision to escape to Free China, while Peter followed suit two years later. After the war, fate led them back to Hong Kong to complete their medical studies where their journeys had begun.
It was also here, through a twist of serendipity, that their paths finally converged.
The book delves into their challenges and triumphs, detailing their courageous flight from Hong Kong in search of safety and their eventual return to the place where their dreams of becoming doctors first took root.
In addition to their academic pursuits, “Prescriptions of Faith” also shares the heartwarming story of Peter and Eleanor’s family life and their return to Malaya after marriage, weaving together themes of resilience, love, and the enduring spirit of hope.
“I look back at Mum’s life and career and how she (and many others like Sister Alexis) went through so much, so long ago when “equality” was not even on the table for discussion,” says her son, Dr Francis Tan.
“Yet, they worked with love and dedication in their chosen vocations, and no man could ever have filled their shoes.”
“Mum’s early professional life,” he adds, “was with the Colonial Medical Service of Malaya (pre-Merdeka). I believe that as a woman, she missed out on opportunities including being placed onto a government pension scheme even after independence, for the bureaucracy and the regulations at the time were as daunting as they are today.”
“Mum worked from 1951, ran a household and also raised three children, was at Dad’s side in countless things and only decided to “retire” for a new role in 1984 when her first grand-daughter Claire was born. And that was forty years ago!”
As she turns 104 today, Dr. Eleanor continues to inspire others through her dedication to healthcare and her unwavering belief in the importance of community. Her legacy is not only in the lives she has healed but also in the countless young medical professionals she has mentored, encouraging them to follow their passion with integrity and compassion.
Today, we celebrate both Sister Alexis Oh and Datin Seri Dr. Eleanor Eu—not just for their age, but for the lives they have transformed through their unwavering commitment to love and service. Their stories remind us that the impact of one individual can ripple through generations, creating a legacy of hope, friendship, and community spirit.
As we honour these remarkable women today, let us draw inspiration from their lives.
May we embrace the values they have exemplified—compassion, resilience, and dedication to serving others. In doing so, we can contribute to a world that celebrates the unique gifts each person brings, fostering love and understanding in our families, friendships, and communities.
Happy International Women’s Day!
(courtesy images from the families of Sister Alexis Loh and Datin Seri Dr. Eleanor Eu)
As Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital in Penang marks its 49th anniversary, it stands as a beacon of hope and healing for cancer patients both local and from abroad.
Founded in 1976, this non-profit hospital has dedicated itself to providing comprehensive cancer care, driven by a mission to treat not just the disease but the person behind it.
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital was born out of a vision to create a supportive environment for cancer patients.
The hospital shares the global mission of the Franciscan Missionaries of Divine Motherhood order, to provide high quality and compassionate care to all
Over the decades, it has evolved from a small establishment into a renowned cancer treatment center. The hospital’s commitment to holistic care is reflected in its multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical treatment with psychological support and palliative care.
The hospital’s ethos is rooted in compassion, with a team of dedicated healthcare professionals who go above and beyond to ensure that patients receive personalized care. From oncologists and nurses to counselors and nutritionists, every member of the staff is committed to making the cancer journey as comfortable and supportive as possible.
His Eminence Sebastian Cardinal Francis presided over a mass today at the hospital’s chapel
One of the hallmarks of Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital is its ability to cater to a diverse patient population. The hospital serves not only the local community in Penang but also welcomes international patients seeking cutting-edge cancer treatments.
As Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital steps towards half a century, it continues to embrace innovation in cancer treatment. The hospital regularly updates its protocols and technologies to include the latest advancements in oncology.
The hospital’s chief executive officer Deacon Paul Kang
The landmark anniversary celebration this year, is not merely a reflection of the hospital’s achievements but also a reminder of its commitment to the community. Mount Miriam actively engages with local organizations and volunteers to raise awareness about cancer and provide support to those affected by the disease. Fundraising events, support groups, and educational seminars are just a few of the initiatives that foster a sense of community and support for patients and their families.
In a world where the fight against cancer can often feel daunting, Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital stands as a testament to the power of compassion, community, and care.
Here’s to 49 years of making a difference and to many more years of hope and healing!
My first “sighting” of this lovely and funny soul was at The Star Penang newsroom in 1993, when I joined as a reporter and she was the paper’s freelance writer/stringer.
Once she got behind the computer she would remain focussed and quiet as she went about putting together her famous food reviews.
The sub-editors usually found themselves needing to consult the dictionary when clearing her copies (Aiyo Fay, why are you using such big words, you think our readers can understand, meh? was usually conveyed to Fay by Anna Cheah our then chief sub-editor) Fay would simply smile and give some funny retort and everyone would laugh.
Her love for food was legendary. Some of us would join her for quick hawker meals close to the office when she stepped in to meet her deadlines. As most people know, this foodie was just as adept in appreciating fine food and made no bones when any dish did not meet her exacting standards.
When she moved on to other interests, especially in publishing, I used to pick up her nifty card sets with watercolour images of all things Malaysiana and even tried her ‘Miss Khoo’s Asian Deli’ gourmet products at the time, as I heard they had found their way to the shelves of Harvey Nichols in the United Kingdom.
The writer, TV and radio host, publisher, lover of all things nautical and much-loved daughter, always had a kind word for everyone and we missed her laughter and teasing when she left The Star to pursue other projects and adventures.
It was shocking and painful to many of us to hear that Fay, who was then 48, had left us after a brief illness in April, 2017.
Bettina Chua Abdullah and I had a mutual friend in Fay and our stories and friendship with this fun-loving soul are different and yet, the same. Fay shared different friendships with different people and made her mark which can never be erased.
Which now brings us to the third edition of the Fay Khoo Award for Food and Drink Writing which Bettina organised and has been directing to honour Fay’s legacy.
The call for entries has been made and details found below. The 2019 winners will be announced at this year’s George Town Literary Festival which takes place in Penang from Nov 21-24 (please mark your calendars)
Thank you Bettina, for your dedication in keeping Fay’s memory and our friendships alive!
(In addition to written narrative entries for the award, comics and graphic stories are also open to authors and illustrators wishing to submit illustrated narratives)
CALL FOR ENTRIES 2019
The aim of The Fay Khoo Award for Food+Drink Writing is to recognise new and talented voices, and to encourage and develop excellence in food and drink narratives. We believe that there is a space and a need for well-researched and impactful food journalism, because it is through such writing that we can shine a light on people, culture, health, economics and the environment of culinary delight.
This year we hope to present awards to the three best entries, regardless of category. Please read the conditions of entry and submission guidelines carefully, as these have changed from previous years.
The CONDITIONS OF ENTRY are as follows:
• All writing must fall into the categories of personal narrative, reportage or creative non-fiction.
• Entries should not exceed 2000 words.
• Entries must be submitted in English, and must be the sole work of the entrant.
• Entries must never have been published, self-published, broadcast or uploaded on any
website, blog or online forum.
• Anyone over the age of 16 years at the time of the closing date, who is a citizen or resident
of ASEAN countries, may submit up to three (3) entries.
• A fee of RM 20 per submission will be levied to cover administrative costs.
Processing of fees is made by Hikayat Lebuh Pantai, which manages The Fay Khoo Award, upon submission of entry/entries.
Bank details are as follows:
Maybank | Hikayat Lebuh Pantai Sdn Bhd | 557018565194
Please reference your payment with FKA and your WhatsApp number: eg FKA 012-345-6789
If you do not have a mobile phone, please use a landline number.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
• Entries must be saved in Microsoft Word format, and emailed to
thefaykhooaward@hikayat.asia
• Entries need to be double-spaced and the word-count noted at top of the first page.
• Entries must include a WhatsApp or landline number, so that you can be sent a confirmation
that your entry has been received, and we can link submission fees to your entry.
• To protect the integrity of the judging process, entries must not include your name or email address. We will contact you via the WhatsApp or landline number you have provided, for your name and other necessary information.
• Amendments or revised versions will not be accepted.
• Entries will be accepted from July 15, 2019 and must be received by September 15, 2019.
• A fee of RM 20 per submission will be levied to cover administrative costs.
• Entrants who have not turned 18 by November 1, 2019 must provide a parent/legal guardian’s name and contact details.
NOTES ON JUDGING
• There will be three (3) judges for the Fay Khoo Award. The judges’ decision is final.
• The judges will not comment on individual entries.
• The Fay Khoo Award reserves the right to change the panel of judges without notice.
• A Longlist of up to 15 entries will be announced by October 10, 2019, and writers notified by WhatsApp and email.
• A Shortlist of 6 entries will be announced by October 28, 2019, and writers notified by
WhatsApp and email.
PRIZE-GIVING
• The winning entries will be announced at the George Town Literary Festival between
November 21-24, 2019. Accommodation will be provided for the day of the prize-giving.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
• Worldwide copyright of each entry remains with the author, but by virtue of submitting an entry, participants are assigning unrestricted right to publish the winning entry, shortlisted entries and long-listed entries in any format. This right is granted to the managers of The Fay Khoo Award, Hikayat Lebuh Pantai Sdn Bhd and its associates in perpetuity, upon submission of the entry for consideration.
• The Fay Khoo Award will retain fully all income generated by publication of the winning entries, shortlisted entries and long-listed entries, while the author will retain all income generated by their publication separate to this.
• In cases where the author of a winning, shortlisted or longlisted entry independently publishes said submission, the author will mention that the piece was a winner or shortlisted or longlisted entry in The Fay Khoo Award for Food+Drink Writing.
PRIZES:
• Each of the three winners receives a cash award of MYR1500, and a book voucher for MYR500
• Shortlisted entries may also receive other supplementary prizes, at the discretion of the organisers.
AMENDMENTS:
• The organisers of the Fay Khoo Award reserve the right to amend these conditions of entry
if deemed necessary. Any changes will be posted on the award’s Facebook page.
• For further information, please email thefaykhooaward@hikayat.asia
(Images courtesy from the FKAward Facebook and Fay’s)
As we reflect on our journey together, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible gift of music that Maureen has shared with us over the years. Her dedication as our choir mistress before, not only enriched our liturgical experiences at masses, ordinations, both priestly (or sacerdotal) and diaconal, but also fostered a sense of community and joy among us.
We will always remember her signature phrase, “Jazz it up, Leonard!”— to our pipe organ sifu, which served as a joyful reminder to embrace creativity and spontaneity. Her ability to uplift our spirits and encourage us to strive for excellence was memorable.
Maureen was a warm soul with her infectious smile, laughter and welcoming spirit which brightened the lives of all who knew her. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen and valued, offering words of encouragement and support to those in need.
A true adventurer at heart, Maureen lived her life with a sense of wonder and curiosity. Whether exploring new places, trying new things or food, or simply enjoying the beauty of everyday moments, she embraced life with open arms and an open heart.
Vale, dear Maureen. You have earned your rest, and your spirit will live on in our parish of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Penang.
Thank you for everything.
P.S from the Facebook post of my friend Simon …
4th February is World Cancer Day. As the world unites in the fight against cancer, I invite you to open your hearts to those in need. At Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital, we believe that no one should be denied treatment due to financial constraints. Last year, with the generosity of donors like you, we disbursed over RM3 million to support cancer patients who were struggling to afford life-saving treatments. This year, we humbly seek your kindness once again. Your donation, big or small, makes a real difference in bringing hope, healing and dignity to our patients. Together, we can ease the burden of cancer and bring light into the lives of those fighting this battle.
To contribute, please make your donation to: Bank Name: OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad Account Name: Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital TKPKMM Account Number: 7301297883 Every contribution is a lifeline. Thank you for your generosity and compassionate heart!
As the sun dips below the horizon and the vibrant hues of twilight envelop Penang, the Kek Lok Si Temple transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle, particularly on the eve of the Lunar New Year. This iconic Buddhist site, nestled atop a hill, becomes a beacon of hope and gratitude, drawing not only our Buddhist sisters and brothers but also Malaysians from all walks of life and visitors from around the globe.
The atmosphere is electric with anticipation as families and friends ascend the temple grounds, each step a journey of devotion—giving thanks for the past year and seeking blessings for the one to come. The air is filled with the soft sounds of prayers, the rustle of red envelopes, and the gentle whispers of wishes that float like the incense smoke rising to the heavens.
Family and friends make their way to the grounds of the Kek Lok Si Temple
What makes this gathering even more heartwarming is the sight of diverse communities coming together.
Malaysians (and tourists) of various races and faiths joined in unison, united by a shared appreciation for the stunning beauty of the temple, which glowed with thousands of LED lights. The sight was nothing short of breathtaking—a harmonious blend of spirituality and artistry that captivates the senses and inspires the soul.
Among the highlights of the Kek Lok Si Temple at Air Itam on Penang island, are its intricate pagodas and the towering statue of the Goddess Kuan Yin, which stands as a reminder of compassion, unity, and love.
The Goddess Kuan Yin smiles down on all visitors against the backdrop of a fireworks display
As visitors pause to admire the architectural wonders and intricate details, they are also reminded of the values that bind us all together, transcending differences in belief and background. It’s a beautiful testament to the spirit of Malaysia—a melting pot of cultures, where respect and appreciation for one another flourish.
Lensman Mikail Ong had the unique opportunity to capture this enchanting scene on assignment, and he has generously shared his stunning photographs with us.
His lens reveals the magic of the moment—each shot telling a story of joy, reverence, and the shared human experience. Aud and I, as his sisters in the media, can only dream of capturing such beauty; Mikail’s work encapsulates the essence of what makes Kek Lok Si Temple on Lunar New Year’s Eve a sight to behold.
A Lunar New Year icon … the Kek Lok Si Temple
As you scroll through the images in this post, let each photograph transport you to that hilltop sanctuary, where the glow of lights and the warmth of community create an unforgettable tapestry of life and celebration.
Whether you are a seasoned photographer or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of the world, visiting Kek Lok Si Temple during this festive season is truly a treat for shutterbugs and a heartwarming reminder of the bonds that tie us all together.
May the blessings of the new year fill your hearts with joy, compassion, and unity, just as they do at the Kek Lok Si Temple. Happy Lunar New Year!
As the holiday season approaches, we often find ourselves caught up in the hustle and bustle of shopping, parties, and decorations. However, a powerful new video reminds us of the essence of Christmas—a journey filled with hope, love, and a commitment to uplifting the marginalized.
This heartwarming video takes viewers on a journey through various communities, showcasing the struggles faced by those often overlooked during this festive season.
It beautifully captures the spirit of compassion that lies at the heart of Christmas.
This Christmas, let’s embrace the call to action presented in the video. We can all play a role in spreading hope and joy, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply showing kindness to those we encounter.
As we celebrate, let’s carry forward the message that the spirit of Christmas shines brightest when we look out for one another, especially those on the margins of society.
Join Caritas Malaysia in this journey of hope and rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.
From the Manger to the Margins – A Christmas Journey of Hope by Caritas Malaysia
This holiday season, my heart is full of nostalgia as two amazing aunties whipped up delicious muruku today.
These crunchy, spiraled snacks made from rice flour and lentil flour, flavoured with spices like cumin and sesame seeds, have brought back the warmth of Christmases past.
As they expertly twisted and fried each batch this afternoon, I was reminded that they were not just creating treats; they’re preserving a cherished heritage.
Let’s celebrate the beauty of tradition and the flavours that connect us to our roots!
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