By V. Sivaji
The Old Xaverians’ Association (OXA) celebrated its centenary dinner in grand style at the St Giles Wembley Hotel last night.
The once in a lifetime gathering was attended by Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow who was welcomed by OXA president Dato Khoo Khay Seang and his committee.
More than 500 guests came from all over the country and also overseas to attend the momentous event.
In his address, Chow congratulated OXA for their achievements and activities focused on members and their welfare.
“I am overwhelmed by the spirit of friendship and fellowship of members who have turned up in full force.
“The Old Xaverians’ Association has an important role in not only promoting friendship and closer unity among the former students of St Xavier’s Institution but also with the community of Penang.
“I am happy to note that your programmes are mainly focused towards social and charitable causes as well as providing assistance and building solidarity among Xaverians. And of course, most importantly, towards the physical betterment of St. Xavier’s Institution and its two feeder primary schools.
“The Penang State Government will continue with our effort to transform Penang into a location of choice for investors, a destination of choice for tourists and a habitat of choice for residents who desire sustainable living.
“The giving of education grants to your Association’s junior members who pursue further education in institutions of higher learning is another exemplary attribute of your good practices towards Social Responsibility and your support for education.
“I am also overwhelmed by your Association’s 100-year history since its inception in 1924 where it has been promoting the Xaverian spirit of friendship and cooperation irrespective of race and religion and the promotion of sporting activities with other alumni members and sporting clubs in Penang,” said Chow.
Meanwhile, organising chairman, Jon Saw thanked members coming from far and near to show support and also meet up with old classmates. As our motion goes ‘We cherish our past and celebrate our future”
Dato Khoo also thanked the Penang Chief Minister for his kind attendance and also their associate members.
“This is a once in a lifetime dinner and indeed honoured by the Chief Minister’s attendance. The greatest asset of any association is the members.
“Since founding we have worked to achieve our aims like lending support to members and their welfare. Health checks, education grants amounting to RM249,000. Construction of Karpal Singh Hall. I am also happy to note that our membership is also growing year to year,” he added.
The evening also saw the presentation of donations to some 18 charitable organisations and another RM10,000 towards the Penang State Disaster Fund. In all, OXA presented a whopping RM100,000 towards charitable projects.
