A couple singing a duet at one of the singing centres in Bandar Baru Air Itam. — ALEX TENG and LIM BENG TATT/The Star
THE best pastime for senior citizens these days is singing, says Penang Hawkers Association secretary Yeoh Eng Keong.
He said the activity not only provided an opportunity to meet new people, but also served as one of the best therapeutic methods for graceful ageing.
He believes casual singing or karaoke sessions lift spirits, enhance mental well-being, and promote social interaction, all of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life in one’s senior years.
Yeoh helps to run a singing centre at the association’s premises on Jalan Irrawadi in George Town, Penang.
He said the hobby was affordable, making it an ideal activity to handle the stress of ageing.
“On Penang island alone, I estimate there are more than 50 singing centres catering to amateurs and senior citizens who are eager to embrace this hobby,” he told StarMetro.
“These centres are usually in the various associations and community halls located in the inner city, like Seang Tek Road, Lorong Selamat and Market Street, as well as suburbs like Bandar Baru Air Itam, Jelutong and Relau.
A participant belting out a song while the singing coach (left) listens at the Penang hawkers association on Jalan Irrawaddi.
“Other than offering a welcoming environment where seniors can learn, practise and enjoy singing together, these places also offer a sense of community and belonging,” he added.
Yeoh said the association’s singing centre, which is open from Thursday to Saturday (6pm to 11pm) and Sunday (10am to 2.30pm), started in 2012.
He said those interested would have to pay a nominal fee of RM3, per visit.
“We charge our members only RM10 a month. On Tuesdays, there is a singing coach on stand-by to teach those wanting to improve their vocal prowess.
“Whatever fees collected is spent on running this centre.
“Five years ago, over RM80,000 was spent to spruce up the association’s premises, and we bought a water filter and a new refrigerator,” he said.
Yeoh encouraged everyone, especially senior citizens to take up casual singing as it is a pastime worth exploring.
Yeoh urges senior citizens to take up singing as it is a pastime worth exploring.
“Whether you’re a seasoned singer or a novice, consider joining a local singing centre and sing away the blues, and experience the joy of this wonderful activity,” he added.
Kang Choon Teik, 70, said he enjoyed singing, adding that the activity brought him joy.
Kang, who runs a market stall, is a strong believer that music has the power to heal and change attitudes.
“Music is beneficial for the mind, body and soul.
“I find it to be like an aerobic activity as it increases oxygen intake, which leads to better blood circulation and can significantly improve my mood.
“I can attest to the joy and rejuvenation that music can bring.
“I may already be a senior citizen but I don’t feel or look my age,” Kang said when met at the centre.
For more information, contact Yeoh at 016-448 9147.
