Hougang Village Merchants’ Association Contributing to Charity
Hougang Village Merchants’ Association Contributing to Charity
Sunday, February 24, 2019
On the evening of February 24th, Hougang Village Merchants’ Association held its Seventh Anniversary Celebration and the Fourth Inauguration of New Staff Chinese New Year Gala event at the 6th Neighbourhood Park right below Block 686, Hougang Street 61. Mr. Gan Thiam Poh, Member of Parliament for Ang Mo Kio GRC and honorary adviser of the association, served as the guest of honour, and Mr. Darryl David served as the special guest. At the same time, sponsors from all walks of life, members of the Merchants’ Association and the residents gathered to celebrate the event.
This was the seventh consecutive year that the Hougang Village Merchants’ Association held a series of successful Chinese New Year celebrations, which gained enthusiastic response from the residents. In order to bring out the festive atmosphere of the Lunar New Year, Hougang Village Neighbourhood was well decorated with lanterns and lightings during the period. Amongst the more interesting setups were the “Pasar Malam”, Chinese couplets, a giant model of the God of Fortune, a wishing tree, the 12 Zodiac Fortune Archway, 12 Zodiac Lanterns and lanterns depicting racial harmony.
孙嘉和 （PBM） said that the purpose of a series of events was to bring together nearby residents in order to experience the traditional Chinese festive atmosphere, which not only strengthens the residents’ sense of participation, but also promotes communication and enhancing the harmony between neighbourhoods and the cohesiveness of society.
Since the establishment of the Hougang Village Merchants’ Association, they have adhered to the principle of “From the society, for the society”. The association raises funds for community welfare and public charity organizations every year.
This year, in appreciation of the support shown by Novena Foundation and Executive Chairman of Sian Chay Medical Institution, Datuk Seri Toh Soon Huat, JP, the Hougang Village Merchants’ Association prepared a “Da Fu Da Gui” Year of the Pig mascot as an auction item at the gala dinner. The special mascot was won by Honorary Chairman Mr. 洪维坤, for $10,000. All proceeds were donated to Sian Chay Medical Institution, contributing to charity and helping those in need. The kindness of the donors shared the good faith and strength with Sian Chay.
The first branch of Sian Chay Medical Institution was established in Hougang. There are five branches in the Ang Mo Kio GRC: Hougang Branch, Seng Kang South Branch, Jalan Kayu Branch, Transcab Branch and Yio Chu Kang Branch. The Hougang and Jalan Kayu branches were graced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong who officiated at the opening ceremony. PM Lee was full of praise for the branches and expressed his full support!
Chairman Toh Soon Huat has always adhered to the core values of “Forgiveness, Universal Love, Compassion, Gratitude and Blessings” and supported the building of state and the creation of a harmonious society. Sian Chay actively advocates the belief of “Nation Progresses, Family Prospers; Family Harmony, Successful Endeavours. Forwarding with the Nation and Bonding with the People.” He supports charity causes by actively participating in activities organized by community groups and community centers to pay forth to the society. He has always practiced what he preaches and seeks to positively influence the people around him with his own actions. He spreads love to those around him. The power of love shines in everyone’s heart and brings warmth to all people.
Finally, thanks to all the staff of the Hougang Village Merchants’ Association and the benevolent people for their contributions.