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Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. For more than 110 years, Rotary's people of action have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end.

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A Century of Service:
The Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja

Founded in 1928, the Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur emerged as a beacon of unity amidst Kuala Lumpur's diverse cultural landscape. With a core group of 25 members, the club quickly grew to over 80, reflecting a harmonious blend of European and Asian influences. The early days of the club were marked by a strong commitment to service and camaraderie. Weekly Rotary Lunches, a tradition that continues to this day, were held at the historic Bok House (now the W Kuala Lumpur Hotel).

Pioneering figures like Sir Andrew Caldecott and Sir Leonard David Gammans led the club, fostering a vibrant community that included prominent individuals such as the Storch brothers, Raja Tun Uda, Choo Kia Peng, Loke Choe Thye, Mungo Park, and Arumugam Viswalingam. These individuals, drawn to Rotary's principles of service above self, played a crucial role in shaping the club's legacy

history

In Kuala Lumpur's diverse cultural landscape, the Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur began as a symbol of unity in 1928 with 25 members, expanding to 80 members with a mix of European and Asian influences. Their focus on service and camaraderie marked the beginning of a remarkable journey.

The early pioneers of the famous club included Sir Andrew Caldecott as the first President and Sir Leonard David Gammans as the initial secretary.

In 1929, the Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur met at Bok House, Presently the W Kuala Lumpur Hotel. They held Rotary Lunches every Wednesday at 12:30 p.m, creating a tradition thats still on going till today. Despite a minor administrative challenge, the club's lively spirit led to the official charter reception in January 1930.

Together, they led a diverse group that included the innovative Storch brothers, Raja Tun Uda, a prominent figure in Penang, and Choo Kia Peng, a respected Federal Councillor and renowned figure in the golfing world.

The club's guests included notable figures like tin magnate Loke Choe Thye, botanist Mungo Park, and eye surgeon Arumugam Viswalingam, who were attracted to Rotary privileges and committed to community service.

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A New Chapter of Hope: Celebrating Arvint's Journey Today, we celebrate something far greater than just one success story—we celebrate resilience, opportunity, and the power of community. Meet Arvint. Raised by a courageous single mother working as a security guard to support five children, Arvint’s path has been anything but easy. With his father absent for over a decade, and with his older siblings unable to provide support, Arvint grew up knowing that education was his only way forward. Despite the financial hardships and life's obstacles, Arvint dared to dream—to become a lawyer and uplift his family from their struggles. Through the HELP University – Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja (RCKLDR) Financial Assistance Program (Bursary), that dream is now within reach. ✅ Arvint applied through our RCKLDR bursary website. ✅ He followed the full process—phone verification, eligibility checks, and a visit to HELP University. ✅ Despite not having financial means, he courageously paid the HELP registration fee with the support of his shelter home. ✅ He received his Official Letter of Offer to pursue his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree. On 15 April 2025, Arvint, accompanied by his mother, attended his final interview at the RCKLDR office in Petaling Jaya. It was a moment of pride and hope. Thanks to the dedication of Assistant Governor Surinderdeep Singh and Rotarian Thomas Varughese, who led the interview process, Arvint’s full journey was completed with integrity and heart. We are proud to announce that Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja, in collaboration with HELP University, has allocated RM90,000 to fully fund Arvint’s 3-year law education. 🎓 🔵 This is what we do as Rotarians: we find those whom society often overlooks, we believe in them, and we give them the platform to soar. May this be the first of many. 🌟 #ServiceAboveSelf #RotaryEmpowers #ChangingLives #RCKLDR #HELPUniversity #RotaryCares #TransformingFutures

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Harmony in Every Heartbeat: A Hari Raya Fellowship That Captured the Soul of Malaysia Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja | Saturday, 12 April 2025 There are afternoons… and then there are moments that shimmer in memory like golden threads woven through a song. On Saturday, 12 April 2025, the Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja hosted its annual Hari Raya Fellowship—but what unfolded at the St. Giles Hotel in Mid Valley was far more than an event. It was a celebration of heart and heritage, a living tapestry of cultures and connection, and a soulful tribute to the very essence of Malaysia. From 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., time gently gave way to joy. As guests entered the ballroom, the air itself seemed to shimmer with warmth. Rotarians and their loved ones arrived draped in vibrant Baju Melayu, flowing baju kurung, and wide, heartfelt smiles. President Dr. Alaric, standing tall in his traditional ensemble, radiated the quiet pride of leadership deeply rooted in culture. Around him, harmony bloomed—not just in colours and clothing, but in spirit. Because this wasn’t just a gathering. This was Malaysia at her finest. This was Rotary at its most radiant. At the heart of this masterfully orchestrated celebration stood Organising Chairman Rtn Murtaza (Taz) and Fellowship Director Rtn Sree—whose shared vision transformed a festive afternoon into a soulful symphony. Their work echoed a simple truth: when service is driven by love, the outcome is nothing short of magic. And magic it was. The food? A feast of belonging. Lemang, ketupat, rendang, satay, and a rainbow of kuih-muih graced the tables, whispering stories of home, heritage, and harmony. Every bite was a celebration. Every dish, a bridge. In sharing a meal, we shared memory, meaning, and a little piece of one another. Among the most touching sights were the children from the BRDB Rotary Children’s Residence, welcomed with open arms and joyful hearts. Their laughter became part of the music of the day—and the RM20 ang pows they received were not just gifts, but gestures of dignity and inclusion. Here, you matter. Here, you are loved. The fellowship only deepened as spouses of past presidents, children of late members, and Rotarians from other clubs joined in the celebration—not as guests, but as cherished family. It was a living reminder that in Rotary, bonds don’t fade with time—they grow deeper with remembrance. Then came a moment of simple, collective beauty: all April babies—members, spouses, children, and guests—were invited forward for a joyful cake-cutting. Laughter rose. Cameras flashed. And in that circle of celebration, we saw the heart of Rotary: celebrating life, together. And then, the music lifted the roof. Karaoke turned the ballroom into a beating heart of joy. Voices from every corner of the world—Swiss, German, Malaysian—rose in harmony, all proudly members of RCKLDR, singing shoulder to shoulder, soul to soul. Borders melted. Differences disappeared. There was only music—and unity. When Man Bai’s “Kau Ilhamku” filled the air, it was more than a song. It became an anthem of the day. A declaration of love, of inspiration, of being Malaysian. And among those singing with unshakable joy was Past District Governor Leslie Sallehuddin, who celebrated his birthday that very week and stayed to the end, his voice echoing with spirit and youth. By his side was the ever-gracious PDG Siti Subaidah, a pillar of grace whose presence brought elegance and warmth. From as far as Sungai Petani, District Governor Arvind made the heartfelt journey to attend—his presence a beacon of support, his smile a reminder that true leadership is always present, always felt. And threading every beat together was the effortlessly charismatic Emcee Rtn Aiman, whose voice flowed like poetry and whose timing was as perfect as the day itself. This afternoon was not just special. It was sacred. It was a celebration not just of Hari Raya, but of what it means to be Malaysian. Of what it means to honour tradition while embracing tomorrow. Of what it means to serve with joy, and to lead with love. As the final notes faded and the room gently settled, one truth lingered in every heart: This was a fellowship of the soul. This was harmony—in every heartbeat.

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Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja️ Updated their cover photo. 2025-03-29T17:13:02+0000

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Unlocking Potential, Together – HELP University & Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja Join Forces Monday, 24 March 2025 - The HELP University–Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja Financial Assistance Program (Bursary) isn’t just a bursary—it’s a life-changing opportunity for young Malaysians who may have the passion to study but not the means. In a powerful meeting held at HELP University, both teams came together to strengthen this initiative, streamline the application process, and align on a bold goal: to ensure that no deserving student is left behind because of financial hardship. With RM5 million already allocated by HELP University, the bursary now offers full tuition support for Foundation, Diploma, Degree, and Master’s programs. This is not about rewarding only top scorers—this is about uplifting average-performing students from underprivileged backgrounds, giving them a real shot at a future they never thought possible. The energy in the room was inspiring—filled with shared purpose and commitment to action. Present in the photo: (L - R) 🔹Rtn Ajitpal Singh, Chairman of the Bursary Initiative (RCKLDiRaja) 🔹Rtn Thomas, Committee Member and Treasurer of YKKRM (RCKLDIRaja) 🔹Dato’ Dr. Prof Paul Chan, Co-Founder and Vice-Chancellor of HELP University 🔹Rtn James Mak, Advisor to the Bursary Initiative (RCKLDiRaja) 🔹Ms. Agnes, Registrar of HELP University The moment was captured by Mr. David, Marketing Lead from HELP University. PAG Ajmal Khan and Rtn Ong Yu Jian were also part of the earlier discussion but had to leave for another appointment. In just one week, the bursary initiative has already gained real traction—over 50 calls were received by HELP, sparking hope in households across the country. This surge confirms what we believe: when people know help is real and within reach, they act. This isn’t just a project—it’s a movement. Together, HELP University and Rotary are building more than an education pathway. We’re building confidence. Dignity. A future. And we’re just getting started.

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19 March 2025, 7:00 PM | Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja – Buka Puasa Fellowship Meeting It was an evening brimming with compassion, unity, and inspiration as members of the Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja came together for a heartfelt Buka Puasa fellowship at the Renaissance Hotel. By 6:30 PM, members and guests had already begun to arrive, with conversations flowing and spirits high. As the time to break fast approached, Muslims and non-Muslims alike waited side by side—ready to share in the beauty of unity. When the azan was heard, all began to eat together, a powerful reflection of peace, respect, and harmony that Rotary so proudly upholds. The meeting commenced with an inspiring and eloquent Presidential Address by President Dr. Alaric, who reminded everyone of our shared mission to serve with love and purpose. His words ignited the room with a renewed sense of commitment and pride in the work Rotary does. Immediately after, the mood lifted as we celebrated our March Birthday Boys—a moment filled with joy, laughter, and camaraderie. Cake was shared, birthday wishes echoed across the room, and heartfelt applause reminded us that Rotary is also about celebrating each other and the friendships we’ve built. Adding to the evening’s significance was the presence of a distinguished guest, a Past District Governor (PDG) from South Korea, whose club and district had been instrumental in supporting RCKL DiRaja during the application process for two Global Grants. His presence served as a symbol of the deep bonds forged through Rotary’s international network. He was warmly introduced by PDG Dato’ Jimmy Lim, and the room responded with appreciation and gratitude. Next, the evening marked a proud moment with the induction of Mr. Sri Ram into our club and introduced by non other than PAG Hardeep Singh. Led by PP Siva Shankar, our esteemed Membership Director, the ceremony saw Mr. Sri Ram take his oath—becoming Rotarian Sri Ram. His pledge was a heartfelt commitment to uphold Rotary’s values and serve with humility and compassion. PAG Ajmal Khan followed with a touching explanation of Rotary’s Four-Way Test, emphasizing the enduring importance of truth, fairness, goodwill, and benefit to all. It was a reminder of what sets Rotary apart in the world of service. Our Honourable Secretary then gave a concise update on club matters, paving the way for Rtn. Ajitpal, who shared details of our exciting new Bursary Collaboration with HELP University. He urged members to become beacons of light for underprivileged students, enabling them to access higher education and transform their futures through this scholarship program. The evening’s first guest speaker, Ms. Julie Das from Greater Action, then took the floor—and the energy shifted to one of solemn empathy. Julie spoke about the painful reality faced by refugees in Malaysia, particularly Afghan women from the Hazara community, who flee Taliban persecution only to find themselves in a country where they are denied access to employment, education, and healthcare. Malaysia, not being a signatory of the 1951 Geneva Convention, leaves these families in limbo—especially the children, who bear the brunt of the uncertainty and suffering. Her NGO, supported by a District Grant from RCKL DiRaja, offers these women a lifeline. Many are now skilled cooks, bakers, and seamstresses. They produce exquisite French pastries and traditional Afghan cuisine for events, while others run a mobile manicure and pedicure service. Their transformation is nothing short of heroic—but they need more: volunteers to teach Bahasa Malaysia, individuals and companies to place orders, and people who believe in second chances. Next, we welcomed Datin P.H. Wong of Toy Libraries Malaysia and Dr. Raihan Mohamed of Play Unlimited, who presented a heartwarming vision of toy libraries as spaces for joy, connection, and healing. These libraries provide safe environments for children—especially those from B40 families or with special needs—to play, learn, and grow. With over 100 toy libraries already operating, their mission now is to expand, ensuring that no child—or even elderly person—is left behind in the pursuit of meaningful, inclusive play. In honour of International Women’s Day, it was fitting that our speakers were women of remarkable strength and vision, dedicating their lives to uplifting others, often those whom society has forgotten. The evening concluded with tokens of appreciation presented by President Dr. Alaric to each of our inspiring speakers. It was more than a gesture—it was a tribute to those changing the world, one life at a time. This was not just a meeting. It was a night of deep reflection, joyful celebration, and renewed purpose—a reminder that in Rotary, every act of service echoes far beyond the room.

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I had the privilege of organising yet another Vocational Visit for my Rotary Club, this time a guided tour of DNB's My 5G Portal, a state-of-the-art, immersive experience centre located in 106 The Exchange, inside TRX. This centre boasted state-of-the-art tech & gadgets which is enabled by 5G's low latency and ultra fast data transfer. They showed us a glimpse of the future filled with self-assisted driving, AI-crowd monitoring systems, smart cities and the capabilities of drones & robotics to help us in daily living. It felt like being given a walkthrough Tony Stark's Avengers Tower, with futuristic vibes and AI-intergrated features all built inside a swanky corporate tower which feels ultra modern and sleek. Once again, we were left enriched and enlightened through yet another Vocational Visit. It was a thrilling experience being able to learn about how our lives is slowly turning what was once science fiction just a few years ago into reality. What's more encouraging is learning how far our country has advanced in this area, through 5G tech. By Rtn Ong Yu Jian, Vocational Service Director of RCKLDiRaja

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