May 4th, 2018 MARKHAM – Federation of Chinese Canadians in Markham (FCCM) organized the much anticipated press conference for the announcement of the provincial funding for the development of Dr. Norman Bethune Memorial Garden at the new FCCM cultural centre location (King Square – 9390 Woodbine Ave, Markham) on Friday, May 4th, 2018. Hon. Michael Chan, M.P.P. Markham-Unionville and the Minister of International Trade, represented Premier Kathleen Wynn, in the announcement of 1 million dollar in support of the project
Dr. Ken Ng started the press conference with a warm welcome to distinguished guests, Councillors, Media and good friends from the community. Dr. Ng announced the “largest rooftop Chinese garden in the world.” A centerpiece for the city of Markham, a space for community gatherings for the young and old, and an opportunity to introduce a key tourism attraction location in Markham and Canada. This attraction is a landmark that FCCM has brainstormed with, and for, the community to create a cross-cultural experience for all who visit.
Dr. Ng introduced the key figure for this memorial garden – Canadian doctor, Norman Bethune. He is a historically significant and much-admired figure in China. The Dr. Norman Bethune Memorial Garden is intended to honour Dr. Bethune, the relationship between China and Canada, and the everyday contribution of Chinese Canadians. The garden will be designed in the world renowned style of Suzhou gardens. In celebration of the relationship between Ontario and Jiangsu as sister provinces and the legacy of Dr. Norman Bethune, this garden project will act as a city-scape and nature piece for Chinese and Canadians alike to honour him and to experience the beauty of Suzhou, the major tourist city in Jiangsu province, adjacent to Shanghai. The project will bridge societal and economic gaps between China and Canada, and result in further understanding, integration and interaction amongst all Canadians with the ethnic Chinese population (both domestically and abroad).
Dr. Ng furthered the audience’s interest by revealing some key features of the garden: A bronze statue of Dr. Norman Bethune, classical Chinese pavilions, a pond and bridge, and a large green space for relaxation and meditation. The design and building of this garden provides numerous benefits to the community such as the opportunity to present a premier tourism destination, provide a sense of cultural awareness, memorialize a Canadian Icon, and strengthen international relations. Dr. Ng thanked the Ontario and Markham governments for their support. The announcement was met with sounding applause and encouragement.
Consul Yang spoke on behalf of the Chinese Government and appreciates the Ontario government for the 1 million dollar support and acknowledged the great contribution of Dr. Norman Bethune and the great initiative from FCCM and King Square for coming together for this project. MPP Michael Chan also offered his congratulations and his appreciation for this project. Dundas Kwok – president of King Square Ltd. was excited to announce this big step to solidify and honour the contribution of Chinese-Canadians in history. Mr. Kwok thanked the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sports for providing funding and looks forward to the completed garden. Councillors Nirmala Armstrong, Alan Ho and Amanda Collucci, YRDSB Trustee Juanita Nathan and other dignitaries present also offered their congratulations and were excited for this project in a diverse community to represent Chinese cultures.
Dr. Ng thanked other dignitaries including the Honorary Consul of Cambodia Chhat Chhour, Alvin Wang The Chairman of King Square , members of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Markham ( the Business Division of FCCM) and the Media including OmniTV, Fairchild TV, 105.9 the Region, Ming Pao Daily, WOWTV, TorontoTV, Asianwave, China News Service, for their presence and support.
FCCM looks forward to having visitors, both local and international, come visit the new centre and rooftop garden! For continued updates and more details, check us out at www.fccm.ca, and follow our biggest event of the year – “Taste of Asia Festival”, at www.fccmtoa.ca.
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