This year, RSGC introduced a new measure to manage the number of attendees: wristbands. Yup, that’s right—Members received wristbands To watch the video of this event, click here. during registration. This enabled the organisers to make sure that the food catered matched the number of guests. There had been some occasions where the food had run out due to non-registered guests joining in. While the feedback on this trial was mixed, Members understood the purpose of the exercise, it was all in the name of making the evening run smoothly. So make sure you register early for the next one.
The evening officially began with a warm welcome from the Vice-Captain, David Mah. A record must have been broken with the attendance of 7 out of 10 TC Members, with Captain and President sending their regrets due to ill health. Another difference this year was that the organisers were very strict about the time dinner was to be served. This ensured all guests were seated at their table when the yee sang was brought in and for the first time in recent memory, the entire room performed the toss together, with loud calls of wishes and blessing from the head of the Lion Dance troupe Ivan. The ingredients were tossed high into the air as everyone shouted excited wishes for prosperity and good fortune. The higher the toss, the better the luck. Picture a room full of people frantically tossing their Yee Sang and cheering—definitely a highlight of the night! And doing it all together made it very special indeed.
Once everyone had their fill of Yee Sang, the next showstopper arrived: a spectacular lion dance by the UMT TAR Lion & Dragon Dance Society. The energy was electric as the dancers, along with the God of Prosperity, made their way from the Main Lounge entrance to the stage.
What’s a celebration without food? As the lion dance wrapped up, the buffet was opened, and it was a feast to remember. The starters included steamed dumplings filled with chicken and vegetables, and crispy vegetarian spring rolls. Next came sweet corn soup with crabmeat.
The main dishes were a real treat: steamed seabass, Lo Hon Chai with mushrooms, vegetarian longevity noodles, and the ever-popular Hainanese chicken rice with all the right condiments. And if that wasn’t enough, a live stall served up delicious Sang Har Mee (stir-fried prawn noodles) for that extra festive touch. A big thank you to the FBPS Subcommittee Members who were responsible for suggesting special dishes for the occasion. Members were truly surprised with a different selection of food this year.
The night was also filled with lively energy as the entertainment continued. Eswest Music & Arts Sdn Bhd took to the stage with live instrumental music, creating a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. With 245 registered Members and their families attending, we truly appreciate everyone who came together to make the Open House such a vibrant and enjoyable celebration.
Here’s to many more fun-filled Chinese New Year celebrations at RSGC!
