DISTINGUISHED members and invited guests of Penang Club came together to savour the club’s unique culture and tradition during its Patron’s Night here in Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah.
The annual Patron’s Night is an important feature of the club’s social calendar.
Penang Club president Datuk Malkit Singh Dalip Singh commended the club for being an icon of tradition.
“It is the oldest club in the country. It was established in 1868 by the British colonial administrators.
“It was set up as a meeting place for social interaction and business discussions.
“The Penang Club has since evolved from a club for British expatriates to become cosmopolitan and inclusive.
“Today, our members consist of professionals, judges of the superior courts, business leaders, politicians, academicians, senior government leaders, diplomats and community leaders,” he said in his speech during the prestigious dinner at the club this evening.
Malkit said the club has a special place in the hearts and minds of its members.
With great honour, he also welcomed the Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak and his consort Toh Puan Khadijah Mohd Nor.
“It is Tun’s second term as patron and it is with great honour and privilege that we welcome Tun and Toh Puan.
“My heart swells with gratitude as I look at His Excellency Tun, the distinguished head of Penang.
“His leadership and unwavering commitment are a living testament to what it means to serve with love and dedication,” Malkit said.
He also praised the leadership of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his team.
“The Chief Minister is a down-to-earth, composed, unpretentious and unassuming leader,” Malkit said.
Also present were Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, and state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye.
Earlier, Malkit proposed a toast to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
Three-member band, Three Bumblebeez, captivated the guests with its powerful vocals and performance.
Their enjoyment was evident as they swayed to the rhythm, tapped their feet and occasionally broke into spontaneous applause.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Siew Chia En