Daughter of late WB John Chelliah PM of Joe Eu Lodge No. 9572 E.C. receives MBE from King Charles f

Jane Chelliah-Manning, who has lived in Britain since 1981, will receive an MBE for her work in the civil service and contributions to British society.

She said the award also recognises her efforts as chair of a charity for women with learning disabilities in London.

It was the usual routine for Jane Chelliah-Manning until she got a call from the Cabinet Office of the United Kingdom. “What have I done wrong?” she wondered upon taking the call on December 13, 2022

The Malaysian, who has been living in Britain since 1981, was soon crying out with joy, her heart full of pride. Jane, 59, was informed that she would be honoured for her work in the civil service and contributions to British society.

The London-based Jane, an assistant director of the Department for Business, will receive the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) from King Charles at a date yet to be determined.

Jane said the award also recognised her efforts as chair of a charity for women with learning disabilities in London.

“It’s one of those rare moments in life when you get something you never dreamed would come your way. You never aimed for it. It’s other people who nominated you in secret. I never thought this would happen to me,” she said when contacted.

Jane, who holds a Master’s degree in international relations from the London School of Economics, said she will dedicate the MBE to her late father, John Chelliah, who had always encouraged her to reach for the skies.

“He was the former director of the Malaysian Agricultural Producers Association. My parents always encouraged their children to aim high,” she added.

She said the values they instilled helped her through life’s journey.