Mutts & Mittens Spread the Love Charity Dinner 2024

The Mutts & Mittens (M&M) 8th Annual Charity Dinner 2024, aptly themed “Spread the Love,” brought together 600 animal lovers and well-wishers for an unforgettable evening.

The event aimed to raise funds to support daily expenses, medical needs, and the costs of relocating to a permanent shelter for Mutts & Mittens, which currently provides a temporary haven to over 300 rescued dogs and cats. These animals are in various stages of rehabilitation, with the ultimate goal of finding them furever homes.

Heartfelt Opening and Enchanting Performances

The evening began with a charming performance by children from Tadika Yu Yu titled “心灯, 让爱传出去” (“Heart Lamp, Let Love Spread”), setting a heartwarming atmosphere from the very start.

Tadika Yu Yu dance performance — Tadika Yu Yu opening dance performance

launching of the event by Mutts & Mittens Founder-cum-President CK Chong (L) and Ambassador EL Lye (R)

The programme officially kicked off when Mutts & Mittens Founder-cum-President CK Chong and the NGO’s ambassador EL Lye released the bunting amidst falling confetti, signalling the start of a vibrant occasion dedicated to compassion.

Mutts & Mittens Founder-cum-President CK Chong then took to the stage for an opening speech, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support and sharing the organisation’s vision for the shelter’s future. Guests were reminded of the vital role the community plays in sustaining Mutts & Mittens’ efforts to care for abandoned and injured animals as part of the humane TNRM (Trap, Neuter, Rehome, Manage) process.

Dazzling Dance Performances Captivate the Audience

The dinner entertainment continued with captivating dance performances. The first act featured young dancers from MY Dancesport Studio in Ipoh, who brought energy and fun to the stage with a cowboy-themed Jive dance to “Old MacDonald.” The children’s enthusiasm was contagious, drawing loud applause from the audience.

Old MacDonald dance presentation by MY Dancesport Studio students

professional dance couple Yong Chun Leong and Ooi Sin Yu from MY Dancesport Studio performs the Spanish Paso Doble dance

Next, guests were treated to the elegance and passion of the Spanish Paso Doble, performed by Yong Chun Leong and Ooi Sin Yu, a rising star professional dance couple. Their masterful display of grace and intensity perfectly captured the spirit of this traditional dance.

Celebrating Key Supporters and Community Partners

The evening included a ceremony to honour key supporters who have stood by Mutts & Mittens over the years. Certificates of appointment were presented to EL Lye as Ambassador and Coco Lee as Adviser.

presentation of certificate of appointment as Mutts & Mittens Ambassador to EL Lye (R)

presentation of certificate of appointment as Mutts & Mittens Adviser to Coco Lee (R)

Appreciation certificates were also awarded to organisations such as Klinik Haiwan Menglembu, Waikiki Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd, MY Dancesport Studio, 巴生佛母娘娘 and Hup Fatt Pets Ipoh, recognising their significant contributions to the shelter’s cause.

presentation of certificate of appreciation to sponsor Klinik Haiwan Menglembu

presentation of certificate of appreciation to sponsor Waikiki Travels & Tours Sdn Bhd

presentation of certificate of appreciation to sponsor 巴生佛母娘娘

presentation of certificate of appreciation to sponsor Hup Fatt Pets Ipoh

presentation of certificate of appreciation to sponsor MY Dancesport Studio

presentation of certificate of appreciation to sponsor Madam Lisa Khoo Cheng Kooi

Spirited Auction Drives Fundraising Success

A highlight of the evening was the charity auction featuring two bottles of premium liquor donated by Madam Lisa Khoo Cheng Kooi. The auction began with a bottle of Otard VSOP (30 years old), with bidding starting at RM888. The lively bidding concluded with Mr C.W. Foong, director of Ultratech Auto Transmission Sdn Bhd, securing the bottle for RM2,888.

Mr Nilson Pan is the winner of the 20-year Hennessy XO Cognac (L) while Mr C.W. Foong secures the Otard VSOP for RM2888 (2nd R)

The second item, a coveted 20-year Hennessy XO Cognac, opened at RM6,880 and was eventually won by Mr Nilson Pan, director of Waikiki Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd, for an impressive RM9,888. The excitement of the auction created a buzz in the hall, helping to raise substantial funds for the shelter.

Generous Donations and Heartfelt Speeches

Guest of honour YB Sandrea Ng, Chairperson of the Perak State Housing and Local Government Committee, delivered an inspiring speech, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the need for community involvement in supporting rescue efforts. She also presented a mock cheque of RM5,000 from her constituency funds.

speech by YB Sandrea Ng, Chairperson of the Perak State Housing and Local Government Committee

YB Sandrea Ng, Chairperson of the Perak State Housing and Local Government Committee (L)

photo of YB Sandrea Ng, Chairperson of the Perak State Housing and Local Government Committee, alongside EL Lye (L), CK Chong (2nd L) & Janet Choy (R)

Other generous donations included RM5,000 from Mary Cheang, RM3,000 from international singer Vic Teo, RM2,000 each from Mr CK Chooi and Ipoh Station 18 Pets Shop, as well as additional contributions from Tadika Yu Yu and Jade Yoga.

cash donors led by YB Sandrea Ng, Chairperson of the Perak State Housing and Local Government Committee

On top of that, ushers passed the hat around, successfully raising some RM7,000 from generous attendees.

Datin Janet Yeoh Takes to the Mic

The entertainment reached a touching climax with a musical performance by Datin Janet Yeoh, mother of Ipoh-born Oscar-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh. Datin Janet graced the stage to sing two Chinese songs, including her favourite, “Shanghai Bund.” A generous well-wisher pledged RM3,000 for her performance, further encouraging donations from the audience. While the octogenarian sang, ushers collected contributions, including a significant RM2,000 donation.

Datin Janet returned for an encore of “Shanghai Bund,” this time joined by Mr Nilson Pan’s wife Katherine Yap, who also donated RM2,000. Their heartfelt rendition moved the audience, creating a memorable moment for the evening. The Groove Society band provided a beautiful musical accompaniment.

Nilson Pan (L) with Datin Janet Yeoh and Y Kean Loke (R)

Uniting for a Better Future for Rescued Animals

The 8th Annual Charity Dinner was a testament to the power of community, compassion, and generosity. The funds raised will go a long way in ensuring that Mutts & Mittens can continue its mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. With the support of individuals and businesses alike, the dream of a permanent shelter for the 300 animals under their care is closer than ever.

Mutts & Mittens volunteers who are October babies are celebrated

birthday boy (2nd R) celebrating his big day with friends, family and all the guests

Mutts & Mittens Founder-cum-President CK Chong thanks Secretary Janet Choy (R) with a bouquet of flowers for her dedication in organising this Mutts & Mittens Spread the Love Charity Dinner

As the joyful gathering drew to a close with a final presentation from the Groove Society live band, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing they had made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless animals. The Mutts & Mittens Charity Dinner was not just an event but a movement, uniting kind-hearted individuals in a shared commitment to animal welfare.