KUCHING: The Journey of Service (JOS) 4.0 Dinner, hosted by the Lions Club of Kuching, united more than 138 members of Lions Clubs International from China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand in a celebration of service and fellowship.
The event, held at the Grand Margherita Hotel on Thursday, also marked the official launch of JOS 4.0 Kuching, officiated by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
In his address, Abdul Karim welcomed the international delegates, calling their presence in Kuching a “testament to the enduring spirit of global fellowship and compassion”.
He reminded participants that the Lions’ motto, ‘We Serve’, is more than a slogan, but a way of life that has inspired selfless service across borders.
“JOS has become a beacon of hope and action, transcending boundaries and bringing people together in the spirit of service,” he said.
The minister also paid tribute to Datin Ellis Suriyati, a former Lions Clubs International Director, for her visionary leadership in spearheading the ‘Journey of Service’ initiative.
This year, JOS 4.0 brought together Lions from across seven nations, carrying out community projects in Kuching, Serian, Simunjan, Sri Aman, and Lingga.
Abdul Karim praised the strong partnerships forged with local agencies, including the Lingga and Sri Aman District Offices, the Sarawak Forestry Department, Serian District Council, Kuching North City Hall, and the Ajibah Abol Children’s Home.
“These collaborations have significantly broadened the reach and impact of the programme.
“Our ministry is always ready to collaborate, whether in welfare, health, or community initiatives,” he said.
“Continue this good work and bring more members and communities along with you.”
To mark the occasion, Abdul Karim also announced that his ministry had approved a grant of RM17,000 to support the organisation of JOS 4.0, in addition to covering the cost of the official dinner.
“That is our small contribution in recognition of the Lions Club’s noble efforts,” he said.
In his address, Abdul Karim welcomed the international delegates, calling their presence in Kuching a “testament to the enduring spirit of global fellowship and compassion”.
He reminded participants that the Lions’ motto, ‘We Serve’, is more than a slogan, but a way of life that has inspired selfless service across borders.
“JOS has become a beacon of hope and action, transcending boundaries and bringing people together in the spirit of service,” he said.
The minister also paid tribute to Datin Ellis Suriyati, a former Lions Clubs International Director, for her visionary leadership in spearheading the ‘Journey of Service’ initiative.
This year, JOS 4.0 brought together Lions from across seven nations, carrying out community projects in Kuching, Serian, Simunjan, Sri Aman, and Lingga.
Abdul Karim praised the strong partnerships forged with local agencies, including the Lingga and Sri Aman District Offices, the Sarawak Forestry Department, Serian District Council, Kuching North City Hall, and the Ajibah Abol Children’s Home.
“These collaborations have significantly broadened the reach and impact of the programme.
“Our ministry is always ready to collaborate, whether in welfare, health, or community initiatives,” he said.
“Continue this good work and bring more members and communities along with you.”
To mark the occasion, Abdul Karim also announced that his ministry had approved a grant of RM17,000 to support the organisation of JOS 4.0, in addition to covering the cost of the official dinner.
“That is our small contribution in recognition of the Lions Club’s noble efforts,” he said.