SIBU: Temenggong Vincent Lau praised the Chinese clan organisations here for actively hosting activities to promote their cultural values.
Speaking at the Parents’ Day luncheon of Sarawak Pan Chen Lau Clan Association, Lau, who is also the association’s president, said the promotion of filial duty in such a celebration was one that had well promoted the Chinese culture dating back 5,000 years.
He said he was happy that even the youngsters were taking the cultural activities positively, and this is surely helping to pass on the moral and cultural values of the Chinese people.
“To the local community, Parents’ Day celebration is about fulfilling filial duty in the family. I am happy the warmth of the family is strongly felt in this gathering today. We are passing on our culture to our young ones.”
In honouring our elders, he said they were giving out gifts to the elderly aged 70 and above.
“There are two types of gifts, one for those 70 to 89 years old and the other for those 90 years old and above.
“It is not money that counts in these gifts, but coming from the heart is what matters – for the young ones pledging their love and respect to their elders.”
Lau reminded that filial duty should begin at home especially with the aged.
“They might not be lacking materialistically, but what they need is your company, understanding and care. This is the true spirit of filial duty.”
In his speech, association chairman Datuk Lau Cheng Kiong said life expectancy had increased and people were living better and longer lives.
He said many Chinese folks traditionally believed one should live a relaxed life when one retired.
“But as I see it, we must continue contributing actively so that we can continue learning; we must live out another golden era. Do not remain dormant.”
Organising chairman Lau Hua Chew said honouring the elders must be a commitment throughout the year, and not only on Parents’ Day.
“Begin each new day by respectfully greeting the elders,” he advised.
He said even the government and companies were giving special treats to pensioners and retirees.