By Mu Vitet
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Cheongsam Association is striving to balance between promoting cultural heritage and public service.
This includes extending support to disabled athletes through its philanthropic activities, which it hopes will garner greater public attention.
President Queenie Siak King Lang expressed hope that more people would join forces to provide assistance to the disabled within their capacity.
Queenie remarked this during a visit to local disabled archery athletes along with the newly elected board of directors, including Cheongsam Ambassador Servina Cham, Deputy Secretary Amy Chia, and committee members.
They were given a briefing by Sabah Para Archery Head Coach Paul Leong and Coach Elaine Van on the athletes’ daily training and living conditions.
Members not only interacted with the athletes to exchange archery techniques and knowledge but also provided material and financial support, conveying warmth and care, said Paul.
Since its establishment in 2018, the association has been committed to promoting Chinese cheongsam culture and fostering the exchange and development of local cultural arts, said Queenie.
“Over the years, we have not only successfully hosted numerous international and domestic cheongsam competitions, but have also represented Malaysia at major cheongsam events,” she said.
They made their presence felt at China’s New Silk Road: The Mood for Love in Inner Mongolia, Yangshuo, Guilin, Hengdian, Zhejiang, and Seoul, showcasing the unique charm of Sabah’s cheongsam culture.
The association has also served as a judge at cheongsam competitions.
It has also been invited to serve as a judge and cultural exchange guest at cheongsam competitions in Sabah and Sarawak, actively promoting cultural interaction and artistic integration across the region.
To enrich the cultural life and artistic expression of its members, the association also offers folk dance classes and stage show classes, she said.
“We regularly accept invitations from various community groups and the public to participate in performances and events, showcasing the beauty of cheongsam with elegant gestures and professional interpretations,” she added.
