Mary Fong Celebrates 100th

Members of the Chinese Community in Fiji converged at the Father Law Home in Lami yesterday to celebrate the life of one of the home’s oldest and founding members, Mary Fong.

Ms Fong, a Fijian of Chinese descent, celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by residents, staff and members of the Chinese community.

Ms Fong and her late husband were one of the pioneering groups of Chinese nationals who were brought over to Fiji to farm and contribute to the agricultural sector in the colonial era.

The home’s retiring Sister-in-Charge, Mere Lauaki, said the couple used to farm the land where the Father Law home sits today.

“In 1955, the Archdiocese of Suva had decided to build a shelter for the men of the early Chinese settlers because they were getting older and fragile,” she said.

“Mary’s husband, the late Mr Fong, brought Mary along to the home where she became the home’s chef.”

Sister Lauaki said she became the favourite cook until she herself became a resident.

“Not many people get the chance to turn 100 years old, but for Mary it has been God’s grace,” she said.

“At 100, Mrs Fong still walks around without a stick and is able to support herself when walking around.”

President of the Chinese Community in Fiji, Jenny Seeto, said: “Mary had celebrated a 100 few months back with the sisters of the house but I had promised the sisters that we would celebrate it again,” Mrs Seeto said.

“This celebration coincides with our Moon Festival and China National Day.”

“But because of COVID we decided instead of having a big celebration, we would visit the elderly in the Home of Compassion and Father Law Home.”

The Chinese community also donated a sum of $2000 to the home and $1,200 to the Home of Compassion.

“Apart from the cash donation that we had given today the other stakeholders had donated laundry supplies, food and other necessities that could be very much used by the residents,” she said.

Edited by Selita Bolanavanua

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