Personal Background

At 74 years old, Mdm Lee Yeu Ying is the epitome of a fulfilling retirement, driven by a lifelong passion for art and craft. Retired 20 years ago after dedicating 30 years to working in a bank, she has since embraced her creative side, transforming her love for crafting into a source of joy and fulfillment.

A Lifelong Passion for Art and Craft
Mdm Lee’s love for art blossomed early in life. She excelled in her art classes, scoring an A in art during her Form 5 exams. This early success planted the seeds for a lifelong pursuit of creativity. Her attention to detail and perfectionist nature have always been evident in her work, whether she’s sewing curtains or crafting intricate clay flowers.

Throughout the years, Mdm Lee has continuously sought to expand her skills. She attended various art and craft classes, including Japanese clay flower making and clay doll crafting. Her dedication to perfecting her craft paid off, as many admirers of her work purchased her creations in her early days. For Mdm Lee, each piece she creates is more than just a product; it is a testament to her meticulous nature and her passion for creating beauty.

Volunteering and Sharing Her Craft
Mdm Lee's talents extend beyond personal fulfillment. She has generously shared her skills with others, volunteering her time to teach crafts at the Tzu Chi center. Her willingness to share her knowledge and passion has inspired many, and her contributions have enriched the lives of those around her.

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Staying Active and Connected
Beyond her love for art, Mdm Lee is an active member of the Island Glade exercise group. For the past 15 years, she has been a regular at the park behind her house, joining up to 60 others in morning exercises. The group starts with Tai Chi, followed by line dancing and brace dancing. These activities not only keep her physically active but also socially engaged. The group often comes together for potluck gatherings and even rehearses for performances, such as the upcoming Merdeka Day celebration.
This daily routine is more than just exercise for Mdm Lee; it is a way of life that keeps her connected to her community, maintaining a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

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A Fulfilled Retirement Through Craft
Mdm Lee spends much of her free time weaving baskets, a craft that requires patience and precision. Some of her baskets take up to three months to complete, yet she has made dozens, giving them away to her lady relatives as cherished gifts. For Mdm Lee, the joy comes not from monetary gain but from the happiness her creations bring to others.

At her age, Mdm Lee believes that money is no longer the most important thing. What truly matters is doing what you love and finding fulfillment in the process. Her advice to fellow retirees is simple yet profound: "Find ways to occupy your time, learn something you've always wanted to learn, and gather occasionally with old classmates or colleagues. Always get excited about learning new things."

Finding Joy in the Simple Pleasures
Mdm Lee’s approach to retirement is a beautiful reminder that fulfillment comes from within. Her love for art and craft, her commitment to staying active, and her generous spirit have made her retirement years some of the most rewarding of her life. She has found joy in the simple pleasures—creating with her hands, staying connected with her community, and sharing her talents with others.

Mdm Lee Yeu Ying is a shining example of how to craft a joyful and meaningful retirement. Her story inspires us to pursue our passions, stay active, and find fulfillment in the things that truly matter.​​