I had just returned from the Lions International Convention and was raring to prove my worth as the District Governor of 308B. Two invitation cards were quietly tucked in my diary, one from the Lions Club of Kota Budaya and another from the Lions Club of Kota Baru. So, KB, here I come! I opted for the short but rather choppy flight on a small and narrow Fokker Friendship against a six-hour arduous journey by car to Kota Baru.
Lions Club of Kota Budaya - Installation
Upon my arrival at the airport, I was greeted by President Andrew Lim Kim Fatt (Lions Club of Kota Budaya) and his Board of Directors. VDG Chee Boon Leong, Z5C Tan Kok Hooi and DC Kelvin Yeap were also there.
A hotel reservation had been made for me in the downtown area. After I had refreshed myself, the accommodating Lions transported me to the Chinese Assembly Hall, the venue for the Installation Ceremony.
Two bright furry “lions” danced and pranced to the beat of the drums and clanging cymbals. A thunderous welcome for me and the Lions and guests!
Following the installation ceremony of President Andrew Lim and his Board of Directors, an induction ceremony for two new members was conducted. VDG Chee BL and I played our roles as installing and inducting officers respectively.
Emcee Nor Maziah Yaacob effectively set the atmosphere with introductions, light-hearted remarks, and adherence to protocols. Approximately 200 attendees were present, including my cabinet officers, who had made the considerable journey from Kuantan via Terengganu, demonstrating remarkable commitment. Residents from the Kota Bahru Spastic Centre were also in attendance.
The Club successfully raised an impressive RM95,000.00 during an auction, with the proceeds designated to support various charitable initiatives in Kelantan.
I encountered an acquaintance, Dr. Yao Sik Chee, an official from the Kota Bahru Health Department, who informed me that the Lions Club collaborated closely with his department on the sight conservation program.
Extract of my speech:
"I am delighted to be here this evening for you giving me this opportunity to be with you and members of your club. While I accept the honour shown by you, I would like to share the honour with all of you for this reason. As we all know Lionism is a true spirit of teamwork and demonstration of the strong loving character of the members and volunteers. The District Governor deals more with district administration and is a representative of LCI. As such, I alone will not be able to achieve all the wonderful projects and carry out all the kindheartedness and dedication which make all the events possible. As such I think the honour should be equally shared with you."