Passing on Chinese tea culture to young recruits

MIRI: Miri Tea Culture Association has been advised to recruit more young members, as it is the best way to pass down the centuries- old Chinese tea culture to the younger generation.

Assistant Minister for Land and Air Transportation and Safety Datuk Lee Kim Shin gave this advice when officiating the Chinese New Year celebration and installation dinner of the association on Sunday.

“The Chinese community is well-known for its tea drinking culture. The 5,000 years of history remain the epitome of health and longevity, owing to the great health value and benefit one could get from drinking good tea.

“Nowadays, though it has now become a luxury, it is vital for the elderly to educate the young ones about the historical value of tea and for them to continue the tradition,” Lee said.

After over 15 days of non- stop feasting, Lee strongly encouraged those with upset stomach or health issues to take up tea- drinking as part of their daily habit.

“Perhaps, Miri Tea Culture could take the initiative to organise a health talk on the benefits of tea- drinking, as a way to educate the young and old,” he suggested.

Lee, who is the association’s honorary adviser, pledged RM3,000 for the association to organise the event.

The installation ceremony saw newly- elected president Alice Voo leading other exco members to take the oath of office for the term 2017-2018.

In her welcoming speech, Voo pledged to bring more tea enthusiasts together and to work on plans to introduce the culture to the Miri community.

“Of course, first we have to get them to participate in our association, and thereafter, to plan for more activities that are not only beneficial to our members but also to bring the culture to every corner of the society. It is always easier said than done, but I strongly believe that strong support from members is vital to make this a success.”

Others attending the ceremony included Piasau assemblyman Datuk Sebastian Ting.