Wong wants younger generation to be hardworking and strive for excellence in life

SIBU: Urban Development and Tourism Minister Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh Sunday night urged the younger generation to emulate the fine examples set by their ancestors in pursuit of better life.

He said their hardworking spirit and willingness to sacrifice were some of the qualities that need to be given due attention.

“There are many things that we can learn from our forefathers,” he said when speaking at the 90th anniversary celebration of Pinang Tonhiong Association Sibu at the Sacred Heart Centenary Hall here.

Wong, who is also Second Finance Minister, commended members of the Pinang Tonhiong clan for their tireless efforts in wanting to see success in life.

He said Pinang Tonhiong clan, which is from the Fuzhou province of China, was a hardworking community.

He urged members of the association to set up a database related to their history, adding that it was important for the younger generation of the community to know their history.

World Foochow Federation president Datuk Tiong Su Kuok, who also spoke at the function, said the association established in 1917 was one of the oldest associations in Sarawak.

He said the association over the years had managed its activities well and had many outstanding members of the society as members.

He described the Pinang Tonhiong clan members as a united and close-knitted people and they were spread worldwide and successful in their endeavours.

Also present at the function were Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Datuk Robert Lau, Founder of World Foochow Federation Tan Sri Datuk Tiong Hiew King, Housing and Public Health Assistant Minister Dr Soon Choon Teck, Sibu Municipal Council chairman Datuk Tiong Thai King, who is also Lanang Member of Parliament and president of Sarawak Pinang Tonhiong Association Datuk Jimmy Lau.