(Miri News, 26th) Sarawak Minister of Transport and Advisor of Miri Single Mothers Consultation Center, Dato' Sri Lee Kim Shin stated that gratitude, respect, and the virtue of honoring the elderly are very important in traditional Chinese culture. He urged the younger generation not to forget their mother's hardships and the support of society and the government when they achieve success in the future.
He emphasized the importance of striving in education, relying on oneself in the future, not missing any opportunities, and having determination and confidence.
He made these remarks while attending the Chinese New Year gathering cum handmade AngPau lantern competition event organized by the Miri Single Mothers Consultation Center (Kelab Sosial dan Kebajikan Harmoni Miri) at the Food Heaven Restaurant in the afternoon.
Li Jingsheng pointed out that the Chinese New Year is the most important festival for Chinese people every year. During this time of reunion, children return home to reunite with their parents and families, share reunion meals, and give red envelopes to express gratitude for their parents' upbringing.
“Without parents, we wouldn’t be who we are today. Therefore, we should cherish these moments of reunion with a grateful heart.
Regarding single-parent families, he mentioned that although the family structure is different, the center also invites members of single-parent families to join the reunion meal as the New Year approaches, allowing them to feel the care of society towards those in need.
Li Jingsheng encouraged children from single-parent families to cherish educational opportunities, strive to learn or acquire a skill, and lay a solid foundation for the future.
“Children are the hope of the future. No matter what difficulties and challenges you face, never give up on yourself and never give up on educating your children.”
He added that currently, many children from single-parent families have become professionals through their efforts and have achieved significant success. This is not only a source of family pride but also a model for society. He encourages children to improve their future through learning and at the same time reduce social problems.
Speaking about Chinese New Year traditions, he mentioned that the New Year's Eve cleaning, changing couplets, and speaking auspicious words during the New Year symbolize bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new, with a beautiful expectation for the New Year.
He stated that these customs reflect the profound connotations of Chinese culture and also make the New Year more meaningful.
Apart from the reunion banquet, the Chinese New Year event also included a red envelope lantern-making competition, providing a joyful and warm interactive platform for single-parent family members and their children.
Li Jingsheng suggested that the center arrange a visit to the crocodile park after the Chinese New Year and provide free bus services to facilitate travel.