FOR CHARITY: Stephen has his head shaved while a member of Lions Club from Taiwan donates for the charity event. Receiving the cash is acting president Teresa Chuo (left).
SIBU: It was meant to be a joyous occasion yesterday when Lions Club of Sibu City wanted to install Margaret Chang as its 10th president, but the mood instead turned sombre because it was a day of mourning for Chang.
Chang died last Friday of breast cancer and was buried yesterday morning.
Despite that, the club retained her as ‘the president’ in honour of her contribution and commitment to charity work.
The installation ceremony yesterday was led by the club’s vice president Teresa Chuo, who acted as the acting president.
In-coming secretary Stephen Chuo said Chang had wanted to give the post to another leader but the club decided to retain her as president so that her leadership and social work would be remembered.
“Our club wants to emulate Chang’s spirit of love and kindness in serving the community.”
Stephen said Chang wore the Lions Club vest when she was buried.
“She left with the honour of being a leader who served.”
When the event began yesterday, master of ceremony Paul Chuo called for a minute of silence in honour of Chang.
The club also showed video clips of Chang.
After the installation, a group of members led by Stephen shaved their heads to remember Chang’s sufferings and for charity.
The event moved many to tears.
It also saw the club donating school bags, books and uniforms to 53 students from two Chinese primary schools in Kanowit.