SIBU: Over the last five decades, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) of Sibu has weathered the storms of history well and emerged stronger.
“This is a strong testimony of the quality and dedication of the association’s leaders, the commitment of its volunteers and staff as well as the relevance and acceptability of its programmes and activities,” said the association’s president, Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming,
“These are strengths and assets which the association will enhance and preserve,” he stated when addressing the YMCA Sibu’s golden jubilee celebration banquet held at a leading hotel here on Saturday night.
Lau pointed out that over the years, under the selfless leadership of its past and present presidents and the dedicated board of directors, combined with the faith and commitment of the various committees and members as well as the tremendous generosity of all the patrons, YMCA Sibu had come a long way.
“YMCA Sibu is today a wholesome organisation comprising the Ladies’ Section, Senior Citizens’ Club and Hi-Y Clubs.
“Over the years, it is able to grow from strength to strength and remain relevant in the face of change all these years, adapting to changing circumstances and catering to new attitudes, expectations and preferences.
“After going through the COVID-19 pandemic, our future challenge must surely be how the YMCA of Sibu will adapt and enhance its relevance to the changing needs of society and how it can remain strong in faith, while at the same time, young and creative in spirit.”
“But I have every confidence that YMCA Sibu will be able to meet this challenge. YMCA has always shown itself to be adaptable to change and able to keep up with the times.
“With the continuous support of the Sibu people and selfless contribution of time and effort from its pool of resources, YMCA of Sibu will overcome all obstacles, challenges and strive towards materialising its noble vision,” he said.
Lau pointed out the golden jubilee celebration was indeed a momentous milestone in the history of YMCA Sibu.
“YMCA Sibu is committed to serving, not to being served,” he said, adding serving Sibu for half a century had not been an easy task but it had been extremely rewarding.
“Today, as we share the joy of our 50th anniversary celebration, we wish to remind and encourage the fraternity of YMCA Sibu to continue caring for the world around them in order to help infuse society with their positive energy,” Lau added.
Later, he presented long service awards to the board of directors and members.
The event was made merrier with the cutting of the golden jubilee cake and inclusion of music entertainment.
Among those present were Senator Robert Lau Hui Yew, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Cheing Jin Ek, Lanang MP, Alice Lau, former general secretary of Tainan YMCA, Taiwan, Rev. Dr Paul Hwang, the event’s organising chairman, Yong King Sung and delegates from Singapore, Taiwan as well as West Malaysia.
