January 10 , 2004:-

Hundreds of devotees, staff and volunteers alike thronged to the 5th floor of Wisma Than Hsiang to celebrate the annual reunion dinner, which was held to commemorate the efforts of the people who had contributed to the success of Than Hsiang, be it in education, welfare or cultivation. It was not only a social gathering for friends and families but provided a chance for those present to meet new acquaintances. Among the attendees were Than Hsiang residents, old folks from Wan Ching Yuen Centre, representatives from northern Buddhist Association in Malaysia, and Than Hsiang' staffs and their family members.

A wide variety of delicious vegetarian dishes was placed strategically in the middle of the hall, which was easily accessible to all who attended the dinner. Much thought was given in the preparation for the food for that night as evident from the excellent display of the delicious delicacies and steamboat savouries which ranged from Tom Yam soup to finger licking vege satay . Indeed the guests were spoilt for choices as to what they should lay their hands on first. Flowers and mandarin oranges were also displayed and arranged artistically to enhance the food display. All in all, the food preparation for that night was indeed well planned and managed to satisfy the appetite of all present.

While the people mingled about, chatting among themselves and getting acquainted with old friends, Venerable Wei Wu gave a talk, and expressed his gladness at the huge turnout .

Soon after, a succession of exuberant performances took to the stage. Among the performances were dancing and singing by the tiny tots of the Than Hsiang Kindergarten, a solo singing performance by a resident of Wan Ching Yuen Centre and a sign language performance by the volunteers of the Than Hsiang Sunday School.

The reunion dinner also saw to the honoring of long term service of the Than Hsiang staff . They were appreciated for their diligent and sincere contributions towards the practice of the Dharma. These respectable members have strived to develop their spiritual wealth rather than pursue material wealth. Among the staff who were honored for their selfless contribution included Cheong Siew Ai, a Chinese physician who has served with the Metta Free Clinic for an astounding 15 years, together with her compatriot, Tan Soo Wah who has also contributed the same years of service, Lim Cheng See who served for 11 years in the Than Hsiang Fund department, Kang Sok Meng for her 8 years of service in Wan Ching Yuen Centre, and Lew Meen Cheu for 7 years in the Canteen. Staff members who has served for 6 years in Than Hsiang are Foo Jee Nam, Lau Swee Li, Tan Hong Tee, Sandhi a/p Merasa and Lee Swee Mei. Similarly honored were those who have contributed five years of service namely, Tay Phaik Choo, Lai Guat Lan, See Siang Yien, Low Then Ming, Lim Saw Ling, Ooi Boey Leng, Tan Chai Keng, Teoh An Ki, Khor Cheng Siew, Chu Kee Chee and Cheah Siew Boay.

The success of the reunion dinner thus ensured the tightening of bonds between old friends, devotees and staff alike.