By Vincent D’Silva

BATU PAHAT: The 71st installation of President David Tan Teck Wee and his board of directors for 2025–2026 at the Che Eng Khor Moral Uplifting Society opened with a thunderous spectacle. VIPs and guests were ushered into the grand hall by the deafening roar of lions and the electrifying rhythm of the traditional dances.

The jubilant atmosphere set the tone for the evening as applause shook the hall when the distinguished guests finally took their seats, sealing the start of a memorable celebration dinner.

The Rotary Club of Batu Pahat marked yet another milestone in its proud history with a glittering installation dinner, an evening steeped in camaraderie, fellowship, and tradition.

The grand occasion was graced by the Guest of Honour, Rotary International District 3310, Dr. Shahul Hameed, who delivered an inspiring keynote address that set the tone for the evening’s proceedings.

The ceremony unfolded with warmth and pageantry as Rotarians rose to propose toasts in honour of His Majesty the King, the Sultan of Johor, Rotary International, and to the distinguished guests who had gathered to celebrate the momentous occasion.

The hall came alive with the rhythm of music and the grace of cultural dance performances, which enthralled and delighted the audience, adding colour and vibrancy to the evening.

In his address, Organising Chairman Jay Ong Chee Seng expressed heartfelt gratitude to the many hands that had contributed to the success of the event. Immediate Past President Donald Ong reflected on the achievements of the past year, while the newly installed President, David Tan Teck Wee, delivered his inaugural speech with conviction and vision, outlining the path forward for the club under his stewardship.

The night sparkled with ceremonial highlights, including the presentation of souvenirs to the incoming Board of Directors and to the club’s cherished Sister Clubs. Long-service awards were also presented to dedicated Rotarians whose commitment and loyalty over the years have been the bedrock of the club’s enduring legacy. Another memorable moment was the induction of new members, signifying the Rotary spirit of service continuing into the future.

It was truly an evening that celebrated not just the installation of a new leadership team, but the enduring bonds of fellowship, service, and tradition that define the Rotary movement.

In a stirring welcome that set the tone for the evening, Organising Chairman Jay Ong Chee Seng extended his heartfelt greetings to District Governor Dr. Shahul Hameed, distinguished guests, sister club members, fellow Rotarians and friends at the Installation of the club.

“Seventy-one years, hand in hand, spreading kindness across the land,” he declared, capturing the spirit of the club’s enduring journey of service and fellowship.

Jay Ong underscored that the night was not merely a ceremonial transition of leadership, but a reaffirmation of Rotary’s timeless motto — Service Above Self. He reminded the audience that such a milestone was only possible through the unwavering support of members, partners and friends who have stood alongside the club throughout the decades.

Adding to the evening’s sense of international fellowship, he extended a particularly warm welcome to visiting Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Bade, Taiwan, strengthening the bonds of friendship across borders.

With gratitude and optimism, he concluded by wishing all guests an evening filled with joy, fellowship and memories to cherish, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of Rotary at this historic 71st installation.

The club bid farewell to its 70th President with a message of gratitude and renewed commitment to service at the club’s 71st Installation ceremony.

Immediate Past President Donald Ong Choong Xin expressed heartfelt thanks to past presidents, fellow Rotarians, and supporters for their tireless dedication over the past year, which was guided by Rotary International’s theme, “The Magic of Rotary.”

Under his leadership, the club carried out a series of impactful projects across Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus, bringing tangible change to the Batu Pahat community.

“We served with compassion and inclusivity, never counting race or religion, but simply addressing need,” he reflected.

He described his tenure as an honour “beyond words,” acknowledging both the challenges and the unity that defined his presidency.

“We may have had spirited debates, but our hearts always remained united under the motto ‘Service Above Self,’” he said.

He extended his warm congratulations, urging the new leadership to continue driving Rotary’s mission with vision, courage, and heart.

“As my chapter closes, my journey as a Rotarian continues,” he affirmed. “Let us keep the magic alive, not just for a year, but for a lifetime.”

David Tan Teck Wee in his address outlined plans focusing on membership growth, community service, kidney health awareness, patient support, innovation, and gratitude.

Tan pledged stronger fellowship, fundraising for dialysis patients, and new initiatives in telehealth, nutrition, and mental health, while crediting his mentor and thanking members and partners for their support.

Highlighting the Rotary Foundation’s work, Tan pledged continued fundraising to provide dialysis support for patients struggling financially.

“No one should be left behind because of financial challenges,” he affirmed.

In closing, David Tan expressed heartfelt thanks to members, caregivers, donors, partners, and patients.

“You are the reason we serve,” he said, pledging to lead with compassion, unity, and vision.

With a strong roadmap laid out, David Tan called on fellow Rotarians and supporters to join him in creating meaningful, lasting change in Batu Pahat and beyond.

Dr Shahul Hameed commended the Rotary Club of Batu Pahat during its 71st installation, celebrating both past achievements and future promise.

He paid tribute to outgoing President Donald Ong for leading with “heart, sincerity and compassion,” before welcoming incoming President David Tan and his new board.

“This is your time, but you are not alone. Together, you will lead, together you will succeed,” he said.

Dr Shahul highlighted the club’s remarkable growth, from 115 members five years ago to 148 today, crediting Past President Foo Kok Hing, who personally sponsored 86 new members.

Foo was recently honoured with the Rotary Membership Society’s Platinum Level recognition, ranking 61st worldwide — a proud achievement for Batu Pahat, Malaysia, and District 3310.

He also praised the club’s service projects, from dialysis centres to youth leadership, eye care, blood donation, environmental protection, and even sports for charity. “This is Rotary Batu Pahat – alive, energetic, inspiring,” he remarked.

Urging new members to actively participate, he reminded them:

“Do not wait to be invited. Step forward. Sweat for service. Only then will Rotary truly belong to you.”

Reflecting on this year’s Rotary theme, Unite for Good, Dr Shahul called on Rotarians, donors, and the community to work hand in hand.

“Goodness is not only about big projects or money. It is about building people, bringing hope, and creating peace,” he said.

Closing his address, Dr Shahul expressed confidence that Rotary Batu Pahat would soon be the largest club in District 3310, not only in size but in spirit, service, and impact.

As the curtains drew on the club’s Installation, the evening stood as a powerful reminder of Rotary’s enduring spirit — a celebration of legacy, service, and fellowship.

With heartfelt tributes to past leadership, the inspiring vision of President David Tan Teck Wee, and the unifying call of District Governor Dr. Shahul Hameed, the night closed not only with gratitude for the journey thus far, but with renewed optimism for the path ahead.

Embodying the timeless motto of Service Above Self, the club reaffirmed its commitment to serve with compassion, unity, and vision — ensuring that the light of Rotary continues to shine brightly for years to come.