Hi and Good Day to Everyone! In Mandarin, we say “大家好” (dà jiā hǎo). My name is Shallyne Shyiow, and I am from Singapore. I am 58 years old and a semi-retiree. Currently, I run a small resort in Kukup, a charming coastal town in Johor, Malaysia.Kukup, steeped in history and culture, is located near the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. This century-old fishing village is renowned for its seafood, scenic views, and unique stilted homes. Surrounded by mangrove forests and the nearby Tanjung Piai National Park, Kukup boasts rich biodiversity and stunning sea vistas.The town’s floating fish farms, known as “kelongs,” highlight its traditional fishing heritage. Over the years, Kukup has become a popular destination, offering visitors fresh seafood, rustic accommodations, and a tranquil escape into Malaysia’s coastal charm and natural beauty. It is truly a great place for relaxation.I was honoured to be invited by Alvin Yong to serve as the guest judge for the October blog entries. There were three wonderful submissions, each unique and inspiring. I would like to share my thoughts on each of them:

1. Faith’s StoryFaith’s story is heartfelt and reflects a strong sense of community and personal growth. His excitement about the holiday and his journey in developing new skills, such as drawing, is both inspiring and uplifting. His enthusiasm and positivity shine through his writing.

2. Angela Mitchel’s StoryAngela’s story beautifully captures the spirit of Mashujaa Day, highlighting unity, joy, and community celebration. Her vivid description of the event and her joy in interacting with visitors made her writing come alive. Angela’s appreciation of how Mashujaa Day brings people together resonated deeply with me.

3. Joan’s StoryJoan’s story is a sincere and heartfelt expression of gratitude for being part of the Chat Club. Her pride in learning new skills, such as speaking fluent English and greeting others in Chinese, is truly commendable. Through her story, she showcases how the Chat Club has been a source of growth and joy for her.And the Winner Is…

While all three writers showcased exceptional creativity and heartfelt reflections, Angela Mitchel stands out as the winner. Her ability to vividly convey the spirit of Mashujaa Day, emphasizing its power to unite and bring joy to the community, left a lasting impression on me. Angela’s story celebrates togetherness and meaningful human connections, which are values I deeply admire.Congratulations to Angela, and well done to Faith and Joan for your inspiring entries. It was a pleasure reading all three stories!I sincerely wish everyone good health and lasting happiness. Cheers to all!