IF a household can be badly affected due to the Covid-19 pandemic, imagine the consequences faced by premises that house hundreds of elderly folk.
Despite being put to the test by Covid-19, the Silver Jubilee Home for the Aged thrived through the trying period and is still going strong in its commitment to protecting the residents there.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said going to the Silver Jubilee Home always gives him a warm feeling because of the noble purpose for which the home was founded for in 1935.
“This year is very special for two reasons as we celebrate this occasion in view of the festive period.
“Firstly, it is always a great feeling to see one of the oldest homes for the aged in Penang hosts its annual event in a grand manner like this.
“Secondly, we are now witnessing the gradual recession of the dreaded pandemic, which has afflicted the entire world for more than three years in a stretch.
“I am confident that all of you will join me in bidding that unwanted guest goodbye; may it stay away and may we always keep it at bay!
“Yet, there is something to be gained from going through that trying period.
“The pandemic has clearly shown us that we all have a hidden warrior, a warrior that can endure and fight when his or her survival, and even the loved ones, is at stake.
“I must mention that during the difficult period of the pandemic, the Silver Jubilee Home did an outstanding job of protecting the well-being of their 135 residents.
“For instance, they organised various activities, such as bingo games, karaoke, sewing, farm gardening, open-air exercise and even hired more physiotherapists to assist the residents in being more active rather than idle,” Chow said in his speech during the Chinese New Year open house courtesy of the Silver Jubilee Home at their premises in Sungai Dua today.
He also applauded the home for encouraging its residents to help with light work in the recycling centre, as well as to mow and maintain the grass at their block.
Also present at the event were Chow’s wife Madam Tan Lean Kee, Silver Jubilee Home executive adviser and trustee Tan Sri Tan Kok Ping and legal advisor of the board of trustees Bernard Kok.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Noor Siri Nabilah Noorazis