BBQ with Dr. Cheah
Written by: Isaac Tay
Having only been in Shanghai for 3 weeks, my experience by far has been fantastic to say the least. The sense of new found freedom has put me and my peers (I can safely say) on adrenaline high. Coupled with this excitement, the spectrum of sights, sounds, language and culture simply throws me into a state of dazzling confusion. There are simply too much to explore in this foreign city, much less even begin to comprehend the identity of the Chinese, or Shanghainese in particular.
Amidst this state of high, there is a strange yearning to go back to something more familiar, something like Singapore and home. Hence it was certainly a pleasant surprise, and honour I should say, to have Dr. Cheah to host us and his other Singaporean friends over a barbeque gathering on a Sunday (2nd Aug 2009). The heavy rain during the particular afternoon was futile in hampering us from going to the barbeque. Secretly, we were craving for some food that bears a semblance of the Singaporean taste (I cannot quite define the Singaporean taste, but if you are a Singaporean, you should know what I mean). Dr. Cheah went over and beyond to meet our dietary expectations. We were treated to a wide array of Singaporean food like curry, roasted duck, roasted pork, bee hoon and many other epicurean delicacies. Without hesitation, I dare say it was one of the best meals I have had since arriving in Shanghai and I am sure my peers will attest to that.
Food aside, what makes the whole gathering tick and complete was definitely the company. It was delightful to meet many other Singaporeans and, of course, the non-Singaporean as well. Perhaps it was the feel of home that catalyst the connection between strangers as one seeks to know what revolves around the lives of others. The incessant chatter was contagious and no doubt everyone was having a ball of a time. Although the new friendships forge in a mere 4 hours are brief, it is nonetheless a great starting point. For many of us in a foreign land, this connection of friends and support are both essential and dear.
In essence, the homely gathering provided a welcoming respite from the hustle and bustle of Shanghai and work. My peers and I are deeply thankful to Dr. Cheah and his family for going through all the trouble to play a wonderful host. For a number of us this may be the first time meeting Dr. Cheah and his family, but I have a strong hunch that this will not be the last.
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An Alumnus currently based in Shanghai, Dr. Cheah Kim Fee is the present Chairman for the NUS Alumni Chapter in Shanghai, China. Benevolent in nature, Dr. Cheah and his family often host gatherings to warmly welcome NUS students to this bustling city which he knows so well. We were extremely fortunate to have been invited to Dr. Cheah's place for an afternoon, and are proud to have such an Alumnus!
