People might expect marriage to be a goal in life for most, but Ah Sai, 73, shares this piece of wisdom: “I’d rather not marry, than to marry someone I do not love at all." An avid gardener who especially loves roses, Ah Sai manages the mini-garden outside Thye Hua Kwan Senior Activity Centre at MacPherson. His love for gardening grew during his kampong days when he would help his mother grow vegetables; he says, “I enjoy gardening because it is so relaxing, and I get so excited when I see flowers blooming!” 

Ah Sai spends a few hours each day caring for his plants. The rest of his day is dedicated to reading the news, listening to music or watching movies. Listening to music keeps him relaxed, and reading newspapers keeps him updated with today’s world – his favourite topics include politics, history and social issues. He shared, “It is important to have hobbies. It can help to prevent heart attacks! I listen to all types of music – popular songs, orchestra pieces, and Fujian (Chinese dialect) songs.”

From Chinese variety shows like "The Brain" to Hollywood blockbusters like "Troy" and animated favourites like "Ratatouille", Ah Sai loves all sorts of television and film. He's especially looking forward to watching one film: "I haven't watched the 'Titanic'! I'm still waiting for my friend to pass me the DVD."