JOHOR BAHRU: Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Johor Bahru branch members sang ‘Auld Lang Syne’ to send off their chairman Chong Ah Ng who retired after serving the society for 29 years.

Chong who is known as the livewire of MRCS gave his utmost to the society during his tenure as chairman.

He felt that it was time for him to hand over the baton to Chua Liak Ching who assumed the chairman’s post upon Chong’s departure.

Chong stood on stage and waved at the young members who lined up and saluted him for his contributions over the years.

Proudly wearing the society’s uniform for one last time as chairman, he spent his 47 years of committed service to MRCS Johor Bahru.

He knew it was time for him to pass on the baton and allow the new team to take charge.

As soon as he arrived at the MRCS Johor Bahru headquarters, he inspected a guard of honour lined up by members and youth cadets.

He was also given the salute by MRCS officials as he was welcomed into the hall.

Guest of honour for the event was Mejar Cina Dato’ David Wong Khong Soon. Also, present were State Assemblywoman for Johor Jaya, Liow Cai Tung, Johor Quarry Association president Dato’ Sri Toh Keng Tiong, special invited guests and members of the press.

In his opening address Mejar Cina Dato’ David Wong Khong Soon described the event as not only a farewell, but also a new beginning.

He labelled Chong’s contributions in the almost three decades as truly commendable.

Dato’ David Wong then narrated Chong’s journey during the time of his late father, Dato’ Wong Peng Long who invited him to join the Red Crescent.

“It was a simple beginning, but his journey took on a greater intent,” said Dato’ David Wong.

Not mincing his words, he said Chong has shown tireless commitment, not only to this organization but also the community at large.

Dato’ David Wong then elucidated how the organization at that time had no headquarter and his father, along with Chong Ah Ng, Tan Sri Kuek Ho Yao and Pang Chee Hooi, was granted an audience with the late Sultan of Johor, Sultan Iskandar Ismail, who at that time was the Agong of Malaysia, seeking his assistance on this.

He went on to say that Dato’ Wong Peng Long received a call from the Johor Land and Mines Department, informing him that the Agong had personally instructed them to find land for the MRCS headquarters.

He said Chong was tasked with leading the fundraising efforts, and he did so astonishingly.

Dato’ David Wong pointed out that Chong raised RM400,000 which then saw the building completed and opened its doors in 1989.

“This building which stands today has served as more than simply a structure—for countless needy people and families, it has been a ray of hope,” he remarked.

He said for nearly thirty years, Chong served without complaint or hesitation.

“Not only is he a leader, but I am honored to call him a friend as well,” he asserted.

He said we look forward to welcome a new chapter as we say goodbye to a man whose legacy will live on forever in this organization’s history.

Dato’ David Wong then congratulated Chua Liak Ching on his appointment as the new chairman.

“I’m excited to see how the MRCS JB continues to serve and inspire,” he added.

Chong said in his farewell speech that there was no looking back since then but it was time to surrender his chair and take a back seat.

He regarded the MRCS JB as his second home, and the members are his family. He then reminisced of the many experiences he had while serving the society.

Chong said this included the blood donation campaigns and disaster relief initiated by the Society.

He said this involved the natural disasters and during the fight against the epidemic, the team has provided active support and assistance within its capabilities.

“Without the cooperation of the entire team and the selfless dedication of every member, how can there be such outstanding achievements,” he asked.

Therefore, he emphasized the glory and honour of the MRCS JB belongs to everyone.

Tng Keng Tee, MRCS JB election commission committee chairman in his address said Chong was a dedicated man who served the MRCS with all his heart.

“He will be surely missed by all members but am glad that Chong has been appointed as an advisor to the MRCS JB branch,” said Tng.

He noted that as an advisor he will guide MRCS JB and bring it to the highest pedestal.

Chong, he said carried out the dreams of the late Dato’ Wong Peng Long of which he never left any stones unturned.

The ceremony also saw the swearing-in of the new MRCS JB team. The team also received the certificate of appointment from Dato’ David Wong and concluded with the oath taking.

In his maiden address Chua Liak Ching, newly appointed chairman said he was fortunate to have the opportunities to learn from Chong, observe his dedication to public welfare, selfless spirit in rescue mission and uplifting the seven principles of the MRCS.

He was glad that Chong has accepted the appointment as an advisor and promised to contribute to the MRCS along with the fundraising director Dato’ Sri Toh Keng Tiong.

Chua expressed his thanks to Dato’ David Wong for taking time out from his busy schedule to attend the function.