CAPTION: Calligraphy, a revered art in Chinese culture, holds deep symbolic meaning. Writing characters on red paper during the New Year bring blessings for the year ahead. Here, Dato’ Dr. Lim Tze Chou and Dr. Gan Cheat Loon participate in this symbolic gesture, reinforcing Putra Medical Centre’s mission to foster health and prosperity for all its patients and staff in the coming year.
One of the most exciting and enriching aspects of Putra Medical Centre’s pre-CNY celebration is our cultural workshops, which are designed to engage our community and offer a hands-on experience of Chinese New Year traditions. These workshops serve as a bridge between generations, cultures, and communities, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of the significance behind the customs that are central to the festive season.
The workshops will take place during the week of January 15, 2025, offering everyone—from patients to staff—a chance to learn about the various elements of Chinese New Year, including the meanings behind traditional symbols, the importance of family reunions, and the customs surrounding food, decorations, and rituals. These educational sessions are a wonderful way for people of all ages to connect with cultural practices and learn something new.
“At PMC, we believe in the power of diversity and inclusion,” said PMC Strategic Director Lee Yong Qian. “Our cultural workshops are designed not just to celebrate the Chinese New Year but to foster an understanding of the different customs and traditions that make our community so unique. We want everyone to feel connected, appreciated, and knowledgeable about the cultures that surround them.”
The workshops will be interactive, with participants able to try their hand at activities like Chinese calligraphy, paper-cutting, and the preparation of traditional Chinese New Year foods. These activities are not only educational but also provide a fun and creative outlet for participants to engage in.
What sets these workshops apart is the opportunity they provide to experience Chinese New Year traditions first-hand, fostering a sense of appreciation for cultural diversity. As Lee emphasised, “It’s about more than just learning about traditions—it’s about bringing people together and celebrating the shared values that unite us all.
At PMC, we believe that understanding and respect are the foundation of a stronger, more connected community. The cultural workshops are a perfect example of how PMC blends healthcare with a deeper commitment to social and cultural well-being. By offering these experiences, we hope to create an environment where everyone feels included and valued, not only as patients or clients but as active members of our growing community.
In this Year of the Snake, Putra Medical Centre’s Chinese New Year 2025 celebrations are centered around the core values of unity, prosperity, and transformation. As PMC Strategic Director Lee Yong Qian emphasised, the theme “Unity and Good Health for All” reflects the hospital’s commitment to building strong relationships within the community while promoting the well-being of all. This festive season, PMC is focused on fostering inclusivity, celebrating cultural traditions, and expressing gratitude for the continued support of patients, staff, and partners. The Year of the Snake symbolises wisdom, strength, and resilience—qualities that align with PMC’s vision for continued growth and improvement, both in healthcare and in nurturing the bonds that make the community stronger.
CAPTION: The art of Chinese calligraphy requires great attention to detail and precision, and here, this participant showcases the delicate balance of skill and tradition. Every stroke is a testament to the dedication and cultural appreciation that PMC embraces as part of its pre-CNY celebrations, fostering unity and cultural exchange.
