Kevin (right) and his predecessor Tiong gesture after the installation ceremony. At left is Lee.
SIBU: The Lions movement serves as a viable platform for its members to reach out to those in need of help.
Lions Club of Sibu Pahlawan new president Kevin Lau Kor Jie highlighted this during the club’s ‘19th Installation cum Fundraising Banquet FY2017-2018’ here on Sunday.
“I’m often asked why I joined Lions Club, as many expect me to join clubs with higher percentage of youth members or non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with certain age restriction. The Lions Club gives me access to the people who are in need of help and also the less-fortunate individuals.
“I have seen families whose children are unable to go to school, parents working hard to make ends meet, single parents struggling for their children,” he said.
According to Kevin, the Lions Club International (LCI)’s motto ‘We Serve’ is very close to his heart.
“In fact, I’m the third generation of Lions in my family. My father (Temenggong Dato Vincent Lau) and grandfather (Dato Sri Lau Hui Kang) had both served in the organisation.”
Meanwhile, Lions District Governor (District 308-A2) Pelly Lee said it took a lot of kind and committed individuals to help change the world and make it a better place. She called upon members to continue upholding the ‘We Serve’ spirit.
“Let us all focus on ‘Lionism’ – on doing good deeds – as this will bring hope, joy, laughter and warmth into the hearts of those who need our love and care,” said Lee.
On Lions Club of Sibu Pahlawan, Lee said the chapter is very fortunate to have cross-border friendships, as well as opportunities to learn and understand each other’s environment, culture and also the different humanitarian projects and activities.
At the event, Lions Club of Kota Budaya president Philip Teo congratulated Kevin on the latter’s election as the 19th president of Lions Club of Sibu Pahlawan, and also to his board of directors.
The president of Manila Allied Lions Club of the Philippines, Gilbert Chua, and Leshan Sisterhood Club president Zhou Xin-Lai also attended the event.
Kevin was among the recipients of the LCI Award, which was presented to him by council chairperson William Tan, witnessed by Lee.
Kevin took over from Lions Club of Sibu Pahlawan outgoing president Tiong Chung Hia.
Minister of International Trade and E-Commerce and Second Finance Minister Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh was the event’s guest-of-honour.