Lion Hardev Singh, a long-time friend and the secretary of the Lions Club of Sungai Petani (LCSP) invited my wife and I to attend his club’s installation, held on 26/9/1997. The Incoming 22nd President was Lion Jegadeeson Thavasuthe.
Earlier, Hardev treated us to a northern Indian lunch. Guess what? It was the best tandoori chicken I've ever had! The chicken was marinated in yogurt and spices, fresh from the cylindrical clay oven! Thanks to Hardev.
On the same evening, Lucy and I reached the dinner venue early. The LCSP Lions were excited when they saw us, as they were still preparing themselves for the event. We were escorted to a waiting room for more Lions and guests to arrive. I caught up with an old friend, Lion Dr. N.S. Sanan. We reminisced about the good old times we had together. The Officer in Charge of the Police District (OCPD) was the Guest of Honour.
As I was called upon to the rostrum, I saw a hall filled with Lions, guests, and dignitaries—not just to celebrate, but to inform and inspire. In my speech, I seized the opportunity to spotlight the breadth of Lions activities, both within our district and across the globe. It was a moment to remind everyone that our movement is not only local—it’s part of a vast, compassionate network of service.
I shared a particularly impactful development: the Memorandum of Understanding (M.O.U.) forged between Lions Clubs and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) at the district level. This partnership, built on mutual respect and shared goals, aimed to enhance community engagement and safety. The announcement drew surprised expressions and murmurs of interest—many had not known of this collaboration.
The OCPD responded with warmth and conviction. In his address, he assured the audience that the police district would actively support and collaborate with the Lions Club of Sungai Petani on future projects. His words carried weight, signaling a promising alliance between civic service and law enforcement.
It was more than a speech—it was a bridge. That evening, we didn’t just celebrate Lions achievements; we laid the groundwork for deeper cooperation, broader impact, and a safer, more united community.
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| My special DG pin for Z3C Lim Bak Soew |
Extract of my speech during the event:
"...With the ever-changing demographics of our communities
and society, Lions need to reach out to find newer and more innovative approaches
to solve the many challenges. The township of Sungai Petani is expanding and needs more Lions clubs to accomplish most of your goals and continue the legacy of the Lions motto "We Serve".