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In the early morning of April 18, 2025, the registration counter at Changi Airport was filled with participants in bright red Thong Chai uniforms. A total of 163 individuals, including board directors, staff, their family’s members, and legal advisors, were about to embark on a 4 days family trip to Xiamen, China.

On April 19, our first stop was the Chuxi Tulou, a cluster of traditional Hakka earth buildings known for their solid rammed-earth walls and circular architecture, symbolizing unity and strength. As we gently touched on the weathered walls, we felt a deep connection to the spirit of healers who had passed down their dedication through generations. At noon, we enjoyed a traditional countryside feast under the sun, giving us a warm and authentic taste of local culture. Later, as we made our way back to Xiamen, the golden coastline unrolling beside us seemed to signal that our journey was just beginning.

On April 20, we set out for a new adventure. Dressed in bright orange Thong Chai uniforms, we boarded a ferry bound for Gulangyu Island. As the city skyline faded behind us, the island emerged, revealing red-brick rooftops, ornate eaves, and old archways. The peaceful atmosphere brought smiles to everyone’s faces. At Shuzhuang Garden, we climbed to a viewing platform that offered a stunning panoramic view of Gulangyu Island. It truly felt like one of the most beautiful places on earth.

By 4 PM, we arrived at Xiamen University. Standing before the statue of Mr. Tan Kah Kee, we reflected on his inspiring life and immense contributions to education. The university’s motto, “Pursue Excellence, Strive for Perfection” continues to inspire many, mirroring Thong Chai’s mission over the past 158 years, to serve all equally, regardless of race, religion, or nationality by offering free Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) services and upholding its rich heritage.

That evening, we gathered at the Haiyatt Villa Hotel for the celebration of Thong Chai Medical Institution’s 158th anniversary. Chairman Mr. Yeo Eng Koon delivered a heartfelt speech, followed by the Long Service Award ceremony. Chairman Yeo together with Vice Chairmen Mr. Kwa Soon Yaw and Mr. Teo Kek Yeng, presented awards to individuals who have dedicated between 5 and 45 years of service to Thong Chai.

In line with the new accreditation framework by the Ministry of Health (MOH), certificates were also presented to physicians who had achieved higher professional and competency standards by Chairman Yeo, Vice Chairmen Dr. Lee Peng Shu and Mr. Lim Tiang Chuan, and Honorary Treasurer Mr. Lim Hwee Hai.

Midway through the celebration, excitement filled the event hall as 38 lucky draw prizes were announced, generously sponsored by Vice Chairman Mr. Lim Tiang Chuan, Head of the General Affairs Committee Mdm. Ng Puay Cheng, and the Chairman’s daughter, Ms. Lynette Yeo. Later, Honorary Secretary Mr. Low Theng Whee delivered a warm and sincere thank-you speech, expressing deep gratitude to all attendees for their unwavering support.

A special guest for the evening, Professor曾玲 from Xiamen University, also took the stage to share her moving thoughts. In her speech, she praised Thong Chai for carrying forward the spirit of its founders, by serving the community and advancing traditional Chinese medicine in Singapore for more than a century.

As the evening drew to a close, the directors’ families delighted everyone with a joyful song on stage. A lovely blue layered cake was then brought out, celebrating both the 158th anniversary of Thong Chai and the birthdays of those born in April.

As our journey came to an end, the atmosphere was filled with laughter, conversations, and heartfelt reflections. Everyone eagerly shared stories of the delicious meals they had enjoyed, breath taking sights they had witnessed, and precious moments they had experienced together. More than just a holiday, this trip deepened our shared identity, reignited our professional passion, and strengthened the bonds that unite us as one Thong Chai family.

A visit to the Chuxi Tulou