CAPTION: “Mandarin oranges, a symbol of wealth and good fortune, are shared with our patients, clients, and partners as Putra Medical Centre Alor Setar extends its wishes for a prosperous and healthy year.” – Lee Yong Qian
In Chinese culture, few symbols are as powerful as the mandarin orange when it comes to wishing someone prosperity, health, and happiness. This small, round fruit, known for its golden colour and sweet, refreshing taste, plays an important role in Chinese New Year traditions. At Putra Medical Centre (PMC), the distribution of mandarin oranges during our Chinese New Year celebrations is much more than a festive gesture—it’s a heartfelt way of extending blessings to our patients, staff, clients, and corporate partners.
The tradition of giving mandarin oranges dates back centuries. In Chinese, the word for orange is “cheng,” which sounds like “success,” while the word for mandarin is “kum,” which sounds like “luck.” This makes the orange a powerful symbol of wealth and good fortune. It’s common for people to exchange oranges with friends, family, and business associates during Chinese New Year to wish them a prosperous year ahead.
At Putra Medical Centre (PMC), the act of giving mandarin oranges has become an integral part of our celebration. On the 15th of January 2025, we will be handing out these vibrant fruits to all our patients, clients, and visitors as a way to say thank you for their ongoing support and trust.
Strategic Director Lee Yong Qian explained: “Mandarins have a deep-rooted significance in Chinese culture, representing good fortune and prosperity. This is our way of wishing our entire PMC family a successful year ahead.”
The distribution will take place throughout the week, creating opportunities for our staff to connect with patients, clients, and guests in a warm and personal way. As guests receive their mandarin oranges, they’ll also receive a heartfelt message of thanks from PMC, reinforcing the bonds we’ve built over the years. “It’s important to us that we take the time to recognise and appreciate everyone who has been part of our journey,” Lee said. “Mandarin oranges are a symbol of that appreciation and our desire to share good fortune with others.
More than just a tradition, giving mandarin oranges is about creating moments of connection. It’s about fostering relationships and ensuring that everyone who enters PMC’s doors feels valued, respected, and appreciated. These small acts of kindness and generosity go a long way in strengthening the bonds that make PMC a trusted healthcare provider in the community.
In addition to the symbolic meaning, the act of sharing fruit also ties into the spirit of health and wellness that PMC promotes. As we offer these golden fruits, we also hope that the Year of the Snake brings not just prosperity but also good health to all. At PMC, we know that true wealth is found in our well-being, and we’re committed to helping everyone lead healthier, happier lives.
In this Year of the Snake, PMC’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: “PMC Managing Director Dato’ Lee Gaik Cheng presenting a plate of oranges to the lions to bring good luck.”
The exchange of oranges with the lion dancers is a gesture of goodwill and good fortune in Chinese traditions. At this moment, Dato’ Lee continues the PMC tradition of sharing oranges, symbolising not just prosperity but the hospital’s deep connection to the community and its commitment to bringing good health and happiness to all.
