Retirement always comes with a huge dose of sadness.
Especially so for workers who have served for a very long time with a company.
So, it is with Tanah Merah Country Club’s two model workers, who have jointly served the club for a total of 77 years.
Magdalene Chia Ean Neo had been with the club for 41 years, while Bulat bte Samian served for 36 years.
At their farewell interviews, both of them smiled a lot, but one could sense a feeling of heartbreak as they looked back on their long careers.
Holding back tears, Magdalene said: “I have had some memorable times with the club. The staff has been very nice, the members are very accommodating, and the bosses are truly friendly.
“I find it hard to say ‘goodbye’ as I treasure so many happy moments, especially during major events staged by the club.
“I have met some top players, exchanged pleasantries with many celebrities, even from Hollywood, and ensured that I offered assistance to all the golfers.
“I wish I could continue as a part-timer at the club, but I know it cannot happen because of club rules.”
Bulat put on a happier face, but deep down, one could see that she was holding back her emotions.
She said: “I am truly grateful to the club for giving me the chance to serve. It is a great club, and the people are very nice and friendly.
“I will miss the work, and now I will look after my two grandkids and go makan-makan a lot.”
Hassan Ali, the club’s housekeeper, showered praise on the two retirees. He said: Mag has been with the club even before it opened. The fact that she stayed so long is testament to the fact that she enjoyed her work here.”
“Bulat also gave her very best to serve everyone and had gone out of her way to perform her duties. The feedback from members and staff is that the two ladies were model workers who had a very good attitude.”
The club’s General Manager Elliott Gray chimed in: “Mag and Bulat were cheerful ladies who went beyond the call of duty many times. I thank them very much for their yeoman service to the club and wish them well in their retirement.” Check out the full video below!