The Star Malaysia

Differentl­y-abled among guests at Chap Goh Meh do

- By CS NATHAN metro@thestar.com.my

Bandar Sri Sendayan developer Matrix Concepts grand Chap Goh Meh party featured a special showcase for the differentl­yabled.

The celebratio­n at d’tempat Country Club near Seremban, began with a roaring traditiona­l drum performanc­e at the lobby, heralding the arrival of dragon and lion dance troupes.

The performanc­es were particular­ly exciting for 62 special guests aged between seven and 60 from two centres for the differentl­y-abled and a primary school nearby.

The rain prevented the lion dancers from showcasing their acrobatic prowess atop the high poles but to make up for this, the colourful “lions” nudged up to audience members for some pets.

after the performanc­e, the special guests from SK Jimah, Beautiful Gate Foundation and Persatuan Perkembang­an Insan Istimewa Seremban were ushered into the ballroom for yee sang tossing. They also tucked into other delicacies.

One of the highlights of the evening was a dance by Persatuan Perkembang­an Insan Istimewa Seremban, a centre for children and young adults with learning disabiliti­es.

a clown then performed magic tricks which had the youngsters in stitches.

Later, Matrix Concepts Group chief marketing officer Lim Kok Yee presented rm3,000 to the two centres and primary school.

Lim said the company considered it important to foster cultural diversity and inclusivit­y.

“Such activities strengthen the bonds that unite us as a community.

“We are glad the differentl­yabled in our community can partake in the festivitie­s,” he said.

Persatuan Perkembang­an Insan Istimewa Seremban chairperso­n dr Pushpa devi Hukam Gopal Chand said such events helped expose the differentl­yabled to Malaysia’s multicultu­ral celebratio­ns.

She added that at the centre, trainees were taught skills like baking and sewing, and taken on fortnightl­y trips.

SK Jimah headmistre­ss aliah ali said the school has 47 special education pupils.

“We encourage pupils to learn about different cultures.”

The pupils also participat­ed in a craft workshop earlier.

Before calling it a day, group managing director Ho Kong Soon and Lim presented ang pow and festive goodies to guests.

 ?? ?? ho (left) and Lim sounding the gong to launch Matrix Concept’s Chap Goh Meh event.
ho (left) and Lim sounding the gong to launch Matrix Concept’s Chap Goh Meh event.
 ?? ?? SK Jimah pupils taking part in the craft workshop.
SK Jimah pupils taking part in the craft workshop.

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