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Memories and longing for centenarian ‘Pakcu Hassan’ this CNY

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101-year-old Tan Ban Sing is a living testament to the harmony that has long existed in his Machang, Kelantan village.

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Free Malaysia Today
Pakcu Hassan may be 101 years old but his steps remain steady and his mind sharp. (Bernama pic)

MACHANG:
Centenarian Tan Ban Sing welcomed the Chinese New Year with gratitude, surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who returned from near and far.

“Every year, this house comes alive again at this time of the year. The children and grandchildren gather, share stories, and laugh together.

“That alone is enough to make me happy,” said the 101-year-old, fondly known as Pakcu Hassan, who has five children, 30 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Amidst the festive atmosphere, however, there is also a sense of wistfulness: this is the second year he is celebrating Chinese New Year without his beloved wife, Kua Yok Ting, who passed away in 2023 at age 96.

“When she was around, we would welcome guests together. Now, the house feels quieter, but I am grateful my grandchild lives next door and is always ready to help whenever I need anything,” he told Bernama at his home in Machang, Kelantan recently.

Despite his fading sight and hearing, his steps remain steady. With his cane in hand, he still strolls around the yard, savouring the time that remains.

Pakcu Hassan is not just another elderly man; he is a living testament to the harmony that has long existed in his village.

“Here, everyone speaks in the Kelantan dialect, regardless of their race. We have always lived together in harmony,” he said.

Every Chinese New Year, it is not just family members who visit – his Malay neighbours also join in the celebrations. To him, this is the beauty of village life: no gaps, no boundaries.

Asked about the secret to his longevity, he simply chuckled. “There’s no big secret. I drink plain water, eat fresh greens and budu (a fermented anchovy product), and walk every day.

“I used to have a small farm by Sungai Kelantan, about 300m from my house. Now, I don’t work as much now, but I still keep moving,” he said, demonstrating how, despite his age, his mind remains sharp.

To him, good health is not just about food or exercise, it is also about peace of mind.

“Life should not be burdened with anger or anxiety. If there’s a problem, stay calm. That is the key to long life,” he advised, his Kelantanese accent thick with countless stories still waiting to be told.

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