Kuala Lumpur – The Kelab Rela Kehormat & Bersekutu Wilayah Persekutuan Malaysia, under the organization of Kelab’s Advisor Datuk Seri Michael Chong, hosted a heartfelt Appreciation Dinner themed “Honouring Our Heroes,” celebrating the selfless individuals who stood at the forefront during Malaysia’s most challenging times, particularly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kelab Rela Kehormat/Bersekutu Wilayah Persekutuan chairman, Datuk Seri KK Chai, expressed his gratitude and admiration for the sacrifices made by frontline workers, acknowledging their crucial role in keeping the nation safe.
“We were deeply honored to have our national hero, Tan Sri Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah, as our Guest of Honor,” said Datuk Seri KK Chai.
“Throughout the pandemic, Tan Sri Dr. Noor Hisham became the strength and guiding light for the entire country. His unwavering leadership helped fortify Malaysia’s healthcare system, enabling us to navigate overwhelming challenges with resilience and hope.”
In his speech, Datuk Seri KK Chai reflected on the immense challenges faced during the pandemic and highlighted the resilience of Kelab Rela Kehormat & Bersekutu. “During those dark days, when uncertainty loomed and fear touched every corner of our lives, our Club and Rela stood resilient. This resilience was not born out of obligation, but from a genuine and heartfelt commitment to our community. Each of you, in your own way, extended your hands, your time, and your energy to protect and support those in need. For this, words alone cannot fully express the depth of my gratitude.”
He added, “Tonight, we are here to honor all of you—the Rela and our committees, volunteers—who stepped up selflessly to serve. Your dedication during the pandemic truly exemplifies the spirit of unity and selflessness that lies at the core of our Club and Rela. Your contributions made an indelible mark, not just on our Club, but on the entire community. You have shown what it means to serve with both heart and soul.”
The event saw the attendance of other notable figures, including Datuk Zulkifli bin Abidin, Secretary of the Security and Public Order Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, who was also a guest of honor.
In addition to Tan Sri Dr. Noor Hisham’s recognition, several outstanding doctors were honored for their exceptional contributions during the pandemic, including Dr. Tan Soon Seng, Dr. Liew Ngoh Chin, Dr. Lee See Pheng, Prof. Dr. Chin Sze Piaw, Prof. Madya Dr. Kamalanathan Palaniandy, Dr. Tharmaratnam Rasanayagam, Dr. Benedict Sim Lim Heng, Dr. Eng Kar Seng, Dato Dr. Shahrulazua Ahmad, Dr. Balachandran S. Krishnan, Datin Paduka Dr. Santha Kumari, and Dato Setia Dr. Tan Hui Meng.
Datuk Seri KK Chai paid tribute to the sacrifices of frontline workers, including medical personnel, police, army, and Rela members, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice during the pandemic. “Their courage, selflessness, and dedication to the well-being of others will forever inspire us,” he said, urging the nation to never forget the heroes whose efforts allowed Malaysians to emerge stronger and more united.
Reflecting on the collective struggle endured, Datuk Seri KK Chai shared a poignant quote from former U.S. President Barack Obama: “The pandemic has reminded us that our fates are tied together. That what happens to one of us can affect all of us, and that we must care for each other as we care for ourselves.”
The event concluded with a message of unity and compassion. “Let us carry forward the spirit of unity and compassion that has brought us this far,” Datuk Seri KK Chai said, adding that, together, Malaysia can overcome any challenge that lies ahead.
The appreciation dinner served as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit, highlighting the resilience and solidarity that guided the nation through one of the most difficult periods in its history.