KULAI: The Rotary Club of Kulai (RCK) celebrated a milestone in its legacy of community service with the installation of its 43rd president, Ho Jee Yuan, along with his new board of directors, at a grand ceremony held at Cathay Restaurant, Kulai.

The event drew a distinguished gathering of local leaders, international Rotarians, and government representatives, highlighting the club’s far-reaching ties and commitment to service.

Among the guests of honour was Rotary District Governor Dr Shahul Hameed from Singapore, who officiated the installation and commended the club for its decades-long service to the community.

Also gracing the evening were Rotarians from across Asia, including delegations from Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, and Taiwan. Their presence underscored the global fellowship that Rotary International nurtures and the spirit of cross-border cooperation in tackling humanitarian challenges.

In her speech, Deputy Minister of Communications Teo Nie Ching praised the Rotary Club of Kulai for its consistent efforts in community development, youth empowerment, and charitable initiatives. She noted that partnerships between civic organizations and government agencies play a vital role in building a caring and inclusive society.

“Community service is not just about giving back—it is about working together to uplift lives and create opportunities for future generations,” she said.

Senai State Assemblyman Wong Bor Yang also attended the ceremony, reaffirming the state government’s support for collaborative initiatives that contribute to education, healthcare, and welfare within Johor.

The evening’s highlight was the formal handover of leadership, where outgoing president Elise Teoh Siow Kee symbolically passed the mantle to Ho Jee Yuan.

In her speech Elise Teoh said, “As my term as president of RCK comes to an end, my heart is filled with gratitude. It feels like just yesterday I was sharing my vision for “The Magic of Rotary,” and now, I can truly say we have created that magic together.”

The Club marked a year of impactful service with initiatives centred on environmental sustainability, education, and health.

A key highlight was the launch of the “Restoring Vision, Transforming Lives” Cataract Project, which enabled 17 individuals to regain their sight. The life-changing programme, club leaders said, brought immense joy to both recipients and members who witnessed the transformation.

The club also organised a Medical Camp that provided free cancer screenings, further underscoring its commitment to improving community well-being. These efforts, members noted, reflect the true spirit of Rotary in making tangible differences in people’s lives.

In his acceptance speech, Ho expressed gratitude to his fellow Rotarians and pledged to carry forward the club’s vision of “Service Above Self.”

“My team and I are committed to expanding our outreach, strengthening ties with international Rotary clubs, and engaging the younger generation in meaningful service projects,” Ho said.

“Together, we will continue to make a difference in Kulai and beyond.”

“While one person can go fast, a team can go far,” declared the newly-installed club president in his address, pledging to steer the organisation towards impactful service and stronger fellowship.

He said the club would embark on meaningful projects aimed at creating lasting change in the community, while also fostering a culture that is vibrant, engaging, and welcoming to new members.

“Together, hand in hand, we will make the most of our collective strengths — our talents, our networks, and our resources — to carry forward the proud legacy of our club,” he added, calling on members to work as one in shaping the future of the organisation.

District Governor Dr Shahul, in his address, emphasized the importance of adaptability in Rotary’s mission, particularly in a rapidly changing world. He urged Rotarians to embrace digital tools, foster innovation in service projects, and continue building bridges between communities across borders.

The installation ceremony featured a cultural performance and a fellowship dinner, allowing guests to network and celebrate the occasion. Members also reflected on the club’s achievements over the past year, which included education support programs, blood donation drives, and aid for underprivileged families in Johor.

There was also the signing of memorandum with the sister clubs mainly of Taiwan and Thailand.

Founded in 1983, the Rotary Club of Kulai has been a cornerstone of volunteerism in the district, aligning its initiatives with Rotary International’s seven areas of focus, including peacebuilding, disease prevention, maternal and child health, and environmental sustainability.

As the evening concluded, the atmosphere was filled with optimism, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose. With its new leadership at the helm, the Rotary Club of Kulai looks set to continue its enduring mission of service, friendship, and global connection.