JOHOR BAHRU: Christmas came early for some 35 orphans from Villa Paulos and Berkat Childrens Home as they had an afternoon filled with joy and laughter at Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & SPA.

As the children from the two homes arrived at the resort their faces were lit up with much excitement. They were accompanied by the home staff and officials.

On hand to welcome them were the resort’s CEO Indra Gandhi Pillai, operations manager Aaron Daniel and F & B manager John Ong.

Present also was Lotus Group CEO Tan Sri R. Doraisingam Pillai who was delighted to meet and greet the children.

Indra Gandhi said Christmas is a time of giving and as part of the community, we feel the need to give back to the community.

The children, aged between seven and 17 years, had fun taking part in the various games lined up for them.

Under the supervision of the resort’s operations manager, the children had a gala and fun-filled day whizzing around the resorts grounds and its iconic beachfront.

Before dusk the highlight of the day was the Christmas tree lighting ceremony by R. Doraisingam.

The resort’s staff then gave a splendid performance by singing the Christmas carols and mesmerizing the audience with the wide repertoire of songs.

The Christmas tree featured dazzling lights, festive decorations and was made out of coconut husk – a unique choice of material reflecting a commitment to eco-friendly practices and a celebration of nature’s versatility.

Besides the sumptuous meal, the children had a gallivant time dipping themselves in the pool and also relished themselves at the water theme park.

One of the hotel staff donned the Santa Claus outfit and made a surprise appearance during the start of the celebrations.

R. Doraisingam said Christmas is about giving, and the best gift one could give a child is love by putting a smile on their faces.

“As these children had never experience such an activity, we are glad we could do our small part.”

He said the resort’s wish is not only to embrace the spirit of Christmas, but also to bring the festive excitement to the children and spread cheer to them.

He said sharing the Yuletide spirit with underprivileged children goes to show that we care and want to create ties with the children.

“For every special occasion, we will invite a local welfare organization to celebrate the festivities with us,” he said.

Addressing the children and guests later, Indra Gandhi Pillai said she was delighted that this Christmas they were able to invite two welfare homes.

“Lest ye forget these children do not get opportunities to visit resorts as they are not in a position,” she stressed.

She mentioned that the resort wants to show the caring, sharing and giving to the underprivileged children.

For these children, she said experiencing a resort’s environment is something new and an experience to see for themselves.

“The resort is glad it could play a part in giving these children a delightful and amazing encounter,” she said.

She also wanted these children to at least get the feeling of hotel food- spread, facilities and ambiance as it can also be a learning experience.

“Let us remember that the true joy of the season lies in bringing smiles to the faces and the children’s presence added a touch of innocence and magic to the celebration,” she added.

Esther Pang Yu Xuan, 16, was excited and happy to have come to the resort.

Esther who has been living in Villa Paulos for the past ten years said, “It was indeed a dream come true and I cherished every moment here.”

She expressed her thanks to the management of the resort for giving the home the opportunity to come and get the feel of a resort.

Pugalenthi Athissvran, 15, said this was his first trip to a resort.

“At least I get the feel of Christmas much early and was able to take part in the games,” he said.

Pugalenthi who has two other siblings living in the home said he enjoyed the water theme park very much.

Shalini Vadivelo, 16, said this is her maiden visit to a resort and it’s an altogether new experience.

Shalini who is from Berkat Childrens Home said she thanked the management of the resort for at least thinking of them this Christmas.

James Goh Yee Siang enjoyed every moment he was at the resort.

The 14-year-old said it was very thoughtful and kind gesture for the staff of the resort to show them around and treat them respectfully.

“They also gave us a wonderful dinner and allowed us to take part in games and for that I am indeed grateful to Lotus Desaru,” he added.

The resort later presented the children with goodie bags and gave them a grand dinner at the coffee house.