A Union to Celebrate
Dear Reader,
Last weekend, we had the tremendous joy of witnessing our beloved publisher and friend Kah Gay and the lovely Alecia (whom you might have spotted helping at our sales tables) get married! We are so glad that two such warm, giving and grounded individuals found each other. From all of us at Ethos Books and Pagesetters Services, we would like to wish them a lifetime of mutual inspiration and partnership.
This week’s Attunement, dedicated to them, is excerpted from the speech of Kah Gay’s Best Man, Ng Kok Hoe:
I’ve known Kah Gay since we were 12. We were secondary school classmates. When we became adults, I noticed that Kah Gay really liked to work. He often sacrifices sleep, but never complains of fatigue. Kah Gay is managing an independent publisher. Publishing is a tough industry in Singapore. You only need to ask yourself: when was the last time you bought or read a book, and you’ll know what I mean. If it’s so difficult, why do it? Because to Kah Gay, publishing is not just income or revenue, it’s a belief.
Kah Gay’s publishing house doesn’t make books that are easy to sell—like self-improvement or investment guides. The books that he chooses to publish carry messages that are important to society: whether it is criticising policies, challenging authoritarian rule, or understanding poverty and inequality. Some of his authors come from minority groups whose voices are not heard; others are talented writers who just need an opportunity. By publishing their work, he provides a platform for authors to tell their stories, and for society to reflect and learn. This is a job that requires intelligence, courage, stamina and creativity.
Watching him work reminds me that a good career is not about competition and personal interest, but about understanding and relationships. When I encounter troubles that I cannot overcome, he tells me that letting go is not giving up, that it is important to take care of myself. His optimism and work ethic is a great source of warmth and strength to everyone around him. I have been very fortunate to be his friend, and I will always be grateful.
Recently, I told Kah Gay that his reward for leading a life of kindness, is Alecia. I can’t believe he found someone who enjoys working as much as he does! Alecia’s art is not high art, not exclusive art that is enjoyed only by the privileged few. She uses art as an instrument, to support the community of persons with disabilities, to record and portray acts of care and love within families. Like Kah Gay, she is a star in her profession, but she has no vanity and no interest in accolades. Her concerns are about society and other people’s needs.
To see two people who care about others more than themselves come together in marriage, is a truly wonderful thing. This way, we can be sure they are both well taken care of. Your joy is also all our joy, because when good people find happiness, the world becomes a better place.
Heartiest congratulations to Kah Gay and Alecia,
the Ethos Books team
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