Recently, I had a chance to spend 20 minutes of my day-off literally right outside of a colourful corner terrace house located nearby where I live – a kindergarten. It was very unlikely of me, and perhaps pointless to have done so some years back.
As I sat in the comfort of my car parked across the road from this establishment, my thoughts began to wonder – towards the future of Brian (my baby boy) and reminiscence of my own kinder years. While observing the innocence and incomparable energy of these children, it was at that moment in time I realized the significance of our kindergarten years in shaping the knowledge, skills, and attitude of our adult lives. It was these crucial years I feel gave me the initial skills and attitude necessary to succeed in life.
Rotaract was very much like kindergarten to me (pun intended). It was an avenue where I had fun while learning. I realized when I have made (honest) mistakes, I would be advised and coached; and when I made any inexcusable (and naughty) errors, I would be punished or penalized accordingly. In kindergarten, I learned the meaning of holding hands without judging the other boy’s or girl’s background. I think much of what we learned at kindergarten can be applied to the beginning of our Rotaract journey, and here are several examples…
Be open-minded -- When we went to kindergarten, we didn't go with a preconceived notion of what our day would be like. We knew why we were there, but we were open to an infinite number of possibilities. As we begin our Rotaract journey, understand your purpose, but stay open to different perspectives, personalities and opportunities.
Show respect -- Respect for the headmistress, teachers, and other students were critical to a successful kindergarten experience. It is equally so in Rotaract, particularly at the beginning. Show respect at every level and to everyone you meet. It will bring reward beyond measure. Begin by respecting people’s time, priorities and opinions.
Give people some space -- In kindergarten, if someone was drawing or playing building blocks while seated on the floor, it was important to back off and let him or her execute his or her vision. In Rotaract, this concept is equally important. Give members in your club the space they need to show you and others how they envision the building process (of your clubs). We watch and comment, but we do not condemn and destroy.
Know when to talk, and when to listen -- Teachers have always appreciated students who participate, yet many have an equal amount of despise for those who don't know when to be quiet. Managing a voluntary organization today necessitates being a good listener and decision-maker. Listen to your members, Rotarians, other fellow Rotaractors, and of course, your inner-self. The best listeners are often the most successful leaders.
Demonstrate creativity or innovation -- Teachers give students crayons and paper, and ask the children to draw, often without specifying in details what they should draw. In Rotaract, and particularly during the planning stages for a new term, the canvas is yours too. Be creative. Be different. Think out of the box when it comes to club projects and activities. If we can’t come out with something new, we can at least learn from others and innovate from such ideas with our very own colours and point-of-view.
Learn to choose a team -- When playing with others, if we were picked as "captain," we had to decide whom we would pick for our team to ensure the highest chance of success. In Rotaract, assembling the right team is even more important than on the playground. Choose wisely so that the skills and talents of the group are maximized to ensure success.
Lend a hand -- There were days we forgot to bring along our water tumbler to class, a classmate is always willing to share theirs. And when a classmate has no partner to hold hands with while lining up to go for recess, we extend ours so that our class will be the first to move and reach the canteen. In Rotaract, it is unavoidable when one has too many roles and responsibilities to manage in the name of service. Are we ever ready to lend our hand to our members (President, avenue directors and project chairpersons) so that we may execute and accomplish the mission with considerable success?
Forgive and forget -- We may have our unpleasant moments in kindergarten. They were mostly due to the actions and words of other children, from name calling to bullying. Teachers would be the peace-maker and taught us how to apologize to each other. At the beginning of the following week, most grudges were forgotten and we sing the same song together again. We should apologize for any inconvenience or hardship caused to anyone during our pursuits in Rotaract, and having a sincere heart to forgive those who have err in the spirit of humankind.
Don't be a cry-baby -- Last but not least, one of the most important lessons learned in kindergarten was learning not to get upset when things didn't go our way. As our parents and teachers always say, “If you fall for whatever reason, get up (and try again).” Maintaining our composure when things don't go as planned is critical to the success and enjoyment of our Rotaract journey.
It is been said that almost everything we need to know we learn in kindergarten, and I would have to say that I agree wholeheartedly. Think through our issues as a knowledgeable mature person, and if that doesn't work, we just might want to pick up a piece of white paper and crayons, and start thinking like a kindergartner...... Life is as complicated as we want it to be.
20 October 2006
23 September 2006
To Meet or Not To Meet
Club meetings are Rotaract's fundamental avenue of existence. Without club meetings, Rotaract would be an elusive icon. The significant of having effective and enjoyable club meetings is literally tantamount to the success of a Rotaract club. During my Rotaract days and tenure as DRR, I had the opportunity to experience club meetings of both side of the equation.
Why do we meet?
The obvious reason for any Rotaract club to meet is clearly requested in Rotaract's guiding policy and by-laws. The unobvious reasons, if one should ask, are described as follows:
a) A formal occasion where one is informed of club business matters;
b) An avenue that gives potential members an initial experience of
Rotaract;
c) It encourages knowledge sharing, fellowship and networking;
d) It provides opportunity for personal development and fulfillment;
e) A test of personal commitment and discipline.
Do Rotaract clubs capitalize on or know all these unobvious reasons? To my surprise, not every Rotaractor does.
Where can we meet?
The concern that clubs not having a consistent and conducive meeting venue has always deemed to affect the image and convenience of this organization. No doubt, a meeting venue should be easily accessible by members and reflect the image of Rotaract; and clubs having guest speakers faces additional challenges of adequate facilities and presentation friendly environment.
In my opinion, the physical aspect of any meeting venue merely serves to provide convenience and shelter. We must be reminded that the image, values, and purpose of any Rotaract club is created by the general membership and proceedings of club meetings. What good can an impressive, conducive and easily accessible venue benefit a club should the attendance during meeting doesn't even exceed 10 and the proceedings look like any scene from a boring movie.
I must admit that amongst the most enjoyable meetings I have ever attended or chaired are concluded in a home environment. It was in ordinary Malaysian homes that I experienced Rotaract in its true colours and spirit. I have always liked the idea of having club meetings at home, and the opportunity to be acquainted with family members of the host. It always brings about a sense of family bonding within the club in a relaxed yet semi-formal ambience. Rotaract is still very much a personal touch organization. That is the beauty and uniqueness. Rotaract is not ready for mass consumption or membership. Perhaps it is best we keep it this way.
Try sharing the honour of hosting your club meetings at your home; and don't whine too much on finding the perfect place. It is what we believe in and do that makes the club, not where we meet. If you are concern about walk-in guests having difficulty locating the club should we don't have a permanent meeting venue, let me ask, how many guests (or visiting Rotaractors) do really walk into our club meetings without calling us prior?
What goes on when we meet?
A concrete and proper meeting agenda is the first step to successful meeting. We take for granted the importance of an agenda, and the preparation needs prior a meeting. What happens during the meeting makes the storyline of your club meetings. If we have guests, they are our audience. They expect a good show, not a rehearsal. They have the need to be entertained and convinced.
I always suggest clubs should separate business from pleasure, and the former should come before the latter. Remember, a guest has no role in club businesses. He or she need not have to listen to debates, discussion of proposals and non-confirmed projects, financial info, and members' responsibilities in project organization. Guests prefer to know what and how does one participate in activities, and the individuals whom they would like to be acquainted.
With proper time management, task coordination, creativity and leadership, I am confident meetings can be better. Both members and guest deserves an enjoyable and beneficial meeting.
Whose responsibility is it anyway?
Everyone should know and carry out their respective roles, and with each role comes specific responsibilities. Many a times, I see club meeting are conducted (not organized) where either no one is responsible for a certain required task, or everyone is. Is this a joke? There are times I do wonder, "How many Rotaractors does it take to change a light bulb?"
There were also instances I hear of boring and unproductive club meetings are the result of poor planning and lack of interesting activities whose responsibility lies on the Board of Directors. There were also times I was informed that the poor attendance, support and punctuality of the general membership were the main causes of mundane and uncertainty in club meetings. This "Chicken and Egg" scenerio, coupled with the lack of invited guests attending meetings has resulted in some clubs operating in a secret society model.
Everyone must have a responsibility in club meetings, no matter how small the task may seem, and I sincerely believe it is every member's wish to attend club meetings that are enjoyable and beneficial.
Then what are we lacking in? I honestly believe, Rotaractors lack passion in Rotaract. Passion to attend club meetings, passion to arrive early or at least punctual, passion to ensure everyone (both members and guests) enjoyed and benefited from club meetings, and passion to take ownership of the club by accepting required responsibilities and tasks.
Do you have the passion? How can we ignite such passion? These are the real questions we should be asking ourselves, and not how can we find the most suitable meeting venue or funding for such a place to meet.
03 September 2006
Terence Speaks on Rotary
Q1: Rotaract clubs are sponsored by their respective Rotary clubs, similar to Interact clubs in schools. Rotary clubs are sponsoring more than one Interact club in most instances, but not Rotaract club. What are your views on this?
Sincerely speaking, I’ve never asked or dwelled into this questions before. As far as I know, Rotary clubs are allowed by Rotary International to solely or jointly sponsor more than one Rotaract club. Why are Rotary clubs not sponsoring more than one club? This is the most interesting question I’ve had so far. I’m neither a Rotarian nor having the privilege to brainstorm this at the Rotary arena, thus, my following views are based solely on personal knowledge, judgment, observations, and conclusions.
Firstly, I guess the need is not present. More than half of the total Rotary clubs here do not sponsor a Rotaract club, this I’m aware. There are more than adequate Rotary clubs to sponsor additional Rotaract clubs if the need arise. Then, we may have a situation where there are not enough interested young adults to form a Rotaract club in accordance to the requirements of the respective Rotary clubs.
Secondly, it must be the hardship that is making Rotary clubs having to think twice if not threefold in sponsoring more than one Rotaract club. In Rotary, it is equivalent to giving birth to a child. Care, attention, commitment, time and monies are required. Rotary clubs may not have such resources available, especially human resources (Rotarians).
Thirdly, it is perceived to be more difficult to sponsor (or take care, in laymen terms) a Rotaract club than Interact club. This is debatable though. Rotaract clubs seem to face more difficulties or having more challenges. Rotaractors seem to be a very challenging group of young adults to control or manage. These are the perceptions I guess Rotary clubs (or certain Rotarians) are having, and it is not something they would like to add upon their otherwise fully committed Rotary programs and projects.
Personally, I’m interested to know why certain Rotary clubs do not wish to sponsor a Rotaract club?
Q2: We do hear or know of certain Rotaract clubs lamenting about the inadequate support from their Rotary club. Is it true? How do you respond to such expressions, and what are some of the actions you believe can help to eliminate such occurrences?
I always trust the complaints by Rotaract clubs (or Rotaractors) are true. Nevertheless, to what extend ‘support’ mean to Rotaractors and Rotarians is a questionable or unconfirmed definition. Such complaint is even more apparent when Rotary chooses to use the word ‘sponsor’ in defining their status and relationship with Rotaract. In Rotaract marketing and PR literatures, a Rotaract club is required to state the name of its sponsoring Rotary Club(s). Rotarians (and Rotary clubs) have been debating their roles, responsibilities and commitments towards Rotaract for as long as I can remember. I believe Rotaractors are doing the same.
Let’s use the analogy of a parent and child relationship here. If one’s friend has parents to bring the whole family to Pulau Tioman during the holidays, do we expect the same from our parents? This is where the catch is, when it comes to Rotary-Rotaract relationships (or sponsorships). Some of us may indeed look forward to such proposition, while others prefers to be left alone as we wish to spend time on other activities or with other company. I guess a general agreement to be applied generally, may not be applicable and feasible. Every family has its uniqueness, culture, limitations and commitments. I always say, in Rotaract, we can choose our family. If we don’t like the current family we’re in and we’ve tried our best to adapt and improve, then perhaps it’s time we look at other families we believe will give us the happiness we seek for, or most concurrent with our views and perspective of service. I'm always disappointed when I hear of Rotaractors chosing to resign due to personal differences and incompatibility.
We need to understand family members in Rotaract and Rotary changes every year (or term) - whether the Board of Directors or general membership. Different individuals (leaders) or groups (committee) may have different definition, aspiration, request and ability. My suggestion has always been to encourage Rotarians and Rotaractors (not limited to Board of Directors only) to spend or invest some time and effort in getting to know and understand each other, and how we wish to play our roles and fulfil our commitments in this relationship or sponsorship. Talk, discuss, explain, ask and share in a give-and-take atmosphere.
All in all, I believe commitment and honesty is paramount to a successful Rotary-Rotaract relationship.
Q3: Do you feel that Rotary clubs seem to be happier or more satisfied with their investment in Interact compared to Rotaract?
Based upon my acquaintance with Rotarians from clubs sponsoring Rotaract clubs, and who are actively involved with Rotaract, I don’t sense Rotary clubs are happier with Interactors compared to Rotaractors. Perhaps there are certain quarters that careless, felt exhausted trying, misunderstood or misinformed as results were below their expectations. These can indirectly be translated to unhappiness and dissatisfied feelings. Every parent wants their children to do them proud. Some children are just not showing results a parent wishes.
Q4: There aren’t many past Rotaractors who took the initiative or natural progression to become Rotarians. In your opinion, what are the factors influencing this eligible group not to join Rotary, or why this is happening?
I guess I shall response based upon the spoken and unspoken factors here, and very honestly. We shall also define past Rotaractors (in this context) as those who have retired from Rotaract not more than 5 years, or aged between 30 and 35.
Fellowship forms one of the pillars of strength in Rotaract, and I’m sure in Rotary as well. Most Rotaractors are Rotaractors due the fact that they found a group of young adults they can click with (pun intended). There are past Rotaractors who couldn’t find such similar fellowship ambience in their Rotary clubs, thus not attracted or interested to make the first step into Rotary. Why? Some past Rotaractors hardly know Rotary or their Rotary club; while others know too much about their Rotary clubs. There are those past Rotaractors who admited not seeing Rotary’s objectives in the same perspective as their Rotarians, do not feel their Rotary club culture suits them, or the benefits of being a Rotarian beset by overwhelming disadvantages.
Then, we have the age gap or shall I put it as generation gap factor. Rotaract can only consist of young men and women between the ages of 18 and 30; Rotary is a different playing field all together. This factor is affecting Rotary club whereby the majority membership consists of semi-retired or retired grandfathers and grandmothers. Both generations are just not having the same wave-length, communication styles and preferences, and outlook of life in general.
Next, we have the financial factor. Rotaractors are used to invest their personal fortune in amounts not exceeding 3-digits before the decimal point throughout a term; and most probably may not have other personal investments and savings that allow them to perform service (and charity) the Rotary way. Most Rotarians’ monthly investment (expenditure) in Rotary are already in the 3-digits category. Many past Rotaractors or even non-Rotaractors (within 30-35 years) are just not ready and able to add such financial commitments in their monthly budget.
On a consolation note, there are past Rotaractors who are currently Rotarians. I guess such circumstance also applies to Rotaract - as there isn't many past Interactors joining Rotaract.
Q5: Will you join Rotary?
Yes, I will. When? It will be a decision for me to make during a time when I’m able to make.
Sincerely speaking, I’ve never asked or dwelled into this questions before. As far as I know, Rotary clubs are allowed by Rotary International to solely or jointly sponsor more than one Rotaract club. Why are Rotary clubs not sponsoring more than one club? This is the most interesting question I’ve had so far. I’m neither a Rotarian nor having the privilege to brainstorm this at the Rotary arena, thus, my following views are based solely on personal knowledge, judgment, observations, and conclusions.
Firstly, I guess the need is not present. More than half of the total Rotary clubs here do not sponsor a Rotaract club, this I’m aware. There are more than adequate Rotary clubs to sponsor additional Rotaract clubs if the need arise. Then, we may have a situation where there are not enough interested young adults to form a Rotaract club in accordance to the requirements of the respective Rotary clubs.
Secondly, it must be the hardship that is making Rotary clubs having to think twice if not threefold in sponsoring more than one Rotaract club. In Rotary, it is equivalent to giving birth to a child. Care, attention, commitment, time and monies are required. Rotary clubs may not have such resources available, especially human resources (Rotarians).
Thirdly, it is perceived to be more difficult to sponsor (or take care, in laymen terms) a Rotaract club than Interact club. This is debatable though. Rotaract clubs seem to face more difficulties or having more challenges. Rotaractors seem to be a very challenging group of young adults to control or manage. These are the perceptions I guess Rotary clubs (or certain Rotarians) are having, and it is not something they would like to add upon their otherwise fully committed Rotary programs and projects.
Personally, I’m interested to know why certain Rotary clubs do not wish to sponsor a Rotaract club?
Q2: We do hear or know of certain Rotaract clubs lamenting about the inadequate support from their Rotary club. Is it true? How do you respond to such expressions, and what are some of the actions you believe can help to eliminate such occurrences?
I always trust the complaints by Rotaract clubs (or Rotaractors) are true. Nevertheless, to what extend ‘support’ mean to Rotaractors and Rotarians is a questionable or unconfirmed definition. Such complaint is even more apparent when Rotary chooses to use the word ‘sponsor’ in defining their status and relationship with Rotaract. In Rotaract marketing and PR literatures, a Rotaract club is required to state the name of its sponsoring Rotary Club(s). Rotarians (and Rotary clubs) have been debating their roles, responsibilities and commitments towards Rotaract for as long as I can remember. I believe Rotaractors are doing the same.
Let’s use the analogy of a parent and child relationship here. If one’s friend has parents to bring the whole family to Pulau Tioman during the holidays, do we expect the same from our parents? This is where the catch is, when it comes to Rotary-Rotaract relationships (or sponsorships). Some of us may indeed look forward to such proposition, while others prefers to be left alone as we wish to spend time on other activities or with other company. I guess a general agreement to be applied generally, may not be applicable and feasible. Every family has its uniqueness, culture, limitations and commitments. I always say, in Rotaract, we can choose our family. If we don’t like the current family we’re in and we’ve tried our best to adapt and improve, then perhaps it’s time we look at other families we believe will give us the happiness we seek for, or most concurrent with our views and perspective of service. I'm always disappointed when I hear of Rotaractors chosing to resign due to personal differences and incompatibility.
We need to understand family members in Rotaract and Rotary changes every year (or term) - whether the Board of Directors or general membership. Different individuals (leaders) or groups (committee) may have different definition, aspiration, request and ability. My suggestion has always been to encourage Rotarians and Rotaractors (not limited to Board of Directors only) to spend or invest some time and effort in getting to know and understand each other, and how we wish to play our roles and fulfil our commitments in this relationship or sponsorship. Talk, discuss, explain, ask and share in a give-and-take atmosphere.
All in all, I believe commitment and honesty is paramount to a successful Rotary-Rotaract relationship.
Q3: Do you feel that Rotary clubs seem to be happier or more satisfied with their investment in Interact compared to Rotaract?
Based upon my acquaintance with Rotarians from clubs sponsoring Rotaract clubs, and who are actively involved with Rotaract, I don’t sense Rotary clubs are happier with Interactors compared to Rotaractors. Perhaps there are certain quarters that careless, felt exhausted trying, misunderstood or misinformed as results were below their expectations. These can indirectly be translated to unhappiness and dissatisfied feelings. Every parent wants their children to do them proud. Some children are just not showing results a parent wishes.
Q4: There aren’t many past Rotaractors who took the initiative or natural progression to become Rotarians. In your opinion, what are the factors influencing this eligible group not to join Rotary, or why this is happening?
I guess I shall response based upon the spoken and unspoken factors here, and very honestly. We shall also define past Rotaractors (in this context) as those who have retired from Rotaract not more than 5 years, or aged between 30 and 35.
Fellowship forms one of the pillars of strength in Rotaract, and I’m sure in Rotary as well. Most Rotaractors are Rotaractors due the fact that they found a group of young adults they can click with (pun intended). There are past Rotaractors who couldn’t find such similar fellowship ambience in their Rotary clubs, thus not attracted or interested to make the first step into Rotary. Why? Some past Rotaractors hardly know Rotary or their Rotary club; while others know too much about their Rotary clubs. There are those past Rotaractors who admited not seeing Rotary’s objectives in the same perspective as their Rotarians, do not feel their Rotary club culture suits them, or the benefits of being a Rotarian beset by overwhelming disadvantages.
Then, we have the age gap or shall I put it as generation gap factor. Rotaract can only consist of young men and women between the ages of 18 and 30; Rotary is a different playing field all together. This factor is affecting Rotary club whereby the majority membership consists of semi-retired or retired grandfathers and grandmothers. Both generations are just not having the same wave-length, communication styles and preferences, and outlook of life in general.
Next, we have the financial factor. Rotaractors are used to invest their personal fortune in amounts not exceeding 3-digits before the decimal point throughout a term; and most probably may not have other personal investments and savings that allow them to perform service (and charity) the Rotary way. Most Rotarians’ monthly investment (expenditure) in Rotary are already in the 3-digits category. Many past Rotaractors or even non-Rotaractors (within 30-35 years) are just not ready and able to add such financial commitments in their monthly budget.
On a consolation note, there are past Rotaractors who are currently Rotarians. I guess such circumstance also applies to Rotaract - as there isn't many past Interactors joining Rotaract.
Q5: Will you join Rotary?
Yes, I will. When? It will be a decision for me to make during a time when I’m able to make.
24 August 2006
Terence Speaks on Rotaract
Q1) How did you end up being a Rotaract?
It was both by coincident and choice. I migrated to KL in early 1994, and got in touch with a friend who was an Interactor. She was the VP in her club and when she completed Form 5, a Rotaractor of Gombak contacted and invited her to club meetings. I still remember the telephone conversation. She mentioned something about a Rotaractor who has been bugging her to attend their club meeting for the past few weeks. I laughed and thought that was funny – perhaps the Rotaractor wanted to date her. So, as to end the constant calling to attend meetings, she summoned up 6 friends majority ex-Interactors (including me) both from her Interact club and college to join her in attending this meeting. In return, we were promised the opportunity to meet new friends of the opposite gender. (p.s. The six of us do not really know each other, you see). At that time, how could a single and lonely guy who just settled in the big city like me refused?
It was a Saturday afternoon; we took the bus and congregated at Lebuh Ampang before proceeding to Jalan Medan Pasar (the venue of the club meeting) by foot. We were supposed to locate a college named Bedford Girls College somewhere behind the Central Market. We found the college, but no Rotaractors. We wait for about 15 minutes before being informed that the club meeting was postponed, by a Gombak Rotaractor who was there because he thought that Saturday was a meeting day and also got to know the postponement after calling the President. As we were about to leave the 2nd floor of the otherwise closed college, we heard a kind of laughter, noise and commotion coming from the 4th floor. Being a young curious lad at that time, I climbed 2 floors up and investigated. What did we know? Another Rotaract club was about to begin their meeting as well. It was the Pudu Rotaract Club instead. Instead of leaving without achieving our main intention set earlier, I convinced the others to spend the hour at the club meeting. Since then, I fell in love with Rotaract; or to be more precise, the Rotaract Club of Pudu.
Q2) Why did you decide to become a Rotaractor?
This may sound like nonsense to majority of youth today. I wanted to do something more meaningful during my weekends compared to shopping (or window shopping most of the time), watching TV or sleeping at home. I had a hobby then – photography. It was quite a costly past time then. A portion of my salary went to films, processing them, and transportation cost. Digital cameras weren’t introduced yet back then. I also realized I lack many other skills, being fresh out of school. To many people’s surprise, I was really a shy boy back then, without much socializing or inter-personal skills. I wanted to develop this and other related leadership skills, and I knew Rotaract can offer me these opportunities. The other reasons I joined Rotaract were also to meet new friends and perhaps do a bit of charity or service. All in all, it was for rather selfish reasons, so to speak.
Q3) People say they do not have much time nowadays. It was noted that you were having a day time job and night classes during your earlier years in Rotaract. Where did you find the time and how did you pulled through?
It’s simple math, really. I worked from 9am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays; and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. Classes were from 6pm to 9pm, 3 out of 5 weekdays. This left me with 2 evenings in weekdays, 1½ days in the weekends. People say Rotaract or any volunteer work is time consuming. Yes, it is. But it is we who decides how much time is given. We can spend half a day in a week for Rotaract activities and meetings, and we can also spend half of our weeks on Rotaract stuff. It’s voluntary, remember.
How did I pull through? Well, we got to like what we are doing in Rotaract. I’m glad I didn’t need to do anything I don’t like in Rotaract. Better yet, we need to be passionate. You’ll be surprised what passion can do to anyone. That’s how I pulled through – Prioritized my time and did what I was passionate about. To top that, I was actually dating my current wife then. She always lamented that I'm more passionate in Rotaract than in our relationship.
Q4) How did you become so passionate about Rotaract?
Personally, I believe the formula or ingredients to create ‘Passion’ are time, purpose, and motivation. When we have these 3 mixed at the right amount, we get passionate. I must say these 3 factors played a significant role in creating the passion I needed in Rotaract. Firstly, passion needs time to be cultivated. This is particularly relevant to allow experiences to settle in. We can’t really demand passion from someone if he/she just sat his/her eyes on that something. My passionate point came when I approach my second membership year. So much so, I gave additional attention and time for Rotaract.
Secondly, we can’t be passionate if we do not know our purpose in life or at any particular point in our life and the reason(s) we are attracted to that something. Whether the purpose is good or otherwise is irrelevant. I know the purpose I joined Rotaract and believed in its objectives were in accordance to my life principles, and Rotaract could help me get to where I wanted to go and what I wanted to achieve at that time.
Thirdly, when passion is built upon and needed to be sustained, motivation is the fuel or energy supplies to ensure the passion we have do not run out of steam. Amongst the motivation I received were the enjoyment experienced when being with friends (members), the improvement in leadership and management skills obtained, enlarged network circle of friends, the happy faces on the individuals Rotaract has touched, and not forgetting an understanding partner.
Q5) How has Rotaract benefited you?
Wow! The list will be long, but to keep it simple and short, I shall keep it to these 2 areas - Opportunities and Self Development. Through Rotaract and its association with Rotary, I’ve been given various opportunities to experience and achieved several life pursuits otherwise not possible if I wasn’t a Rotaractor. I’ve performed dances on stage, organized various projects both fund-raising and service oriented, lead various teams of volunteers who were not paid to work with me, gave public speeches to thousands, witnessed the suffering and predicament of unfortunate individuals in our society, made friends from overseas, and learned what protocol meant in our society.
From the self development aspect; I’ve learned and developed numerous life- or street-smart skills that can’t be found in any tertiary institutions’ subject. To name a few; how to market without money, managing others without giving monetary rewards, leadership by example, entrepreneurship, practical communication skills, and multi-tasking.
Q6) Rotaract has not grown (much) in terms of membership numbers since you joined more than a decade ago. Do you think Rotaract is still relevant to youth today?
I’ll reply this with a resounding “Yes!” Rotaract’s objectives are based upon human principles that do not expire through time. Self- and professional development, world peace and understanding, and respect for others are universal principles of life that transcend religion, race, and nationality. These objectives also underlay the general needs of youth today, whether locally or internationally. Rotaract in principle will not go out-dated. But, it is what Rotaract does (meaning its members) that defines or translates these objectives. Therefore, Rotaractors’ actions (or non-action) are what is important. It is what we say, do and think that the youth today will perceive Rotaract’s relevance in this new millennium.
Personally and saying from a local perspective, I sincerely believe there is more relevancy now than a decade ago. Graduates are unable to secure jobs and amongst the major causes are the lacks of communication skills (especially English), the over-prioritized of academic pursuits resulting in not well-rounded individuals, the chase for materialism, and the involvement in drugs and other unhealthy activities. I rest my case.
Q7) Why then Rotaract is not enjoying the acceptance or growth it duly deserves, in terms of membership numbers? Rotaract in Malaysia is in existence for close to 4 decades now, but the membership numbers is not in a pleasing state many would like it to be.
I guess by responding to this question, it is like having to give excuses or to blame someone. Well, after being for quite some time with this organization, I shall respond to this as factual as I possibly can and speaking from a majority perspective. Before I proceed on the Malaysian scene, it is a point to note that Rotaract as an international organization is not doing well in the membership growth aspect in almost all 5,000 plus Rotaract clubs. It is not an isolated or national issue.
Rotaract is only eligible to young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 years. Although this may represent a huge portion of the country’s active and productive population, the sociology aspect is one of the challenging factors Rotaract is facing currently. Young adults within these ages are either still in tertiary education institutions or beginning to step into the working world and establishing dream careers. The former group has always been advised to spend more time in academic pursuits, while the latter group is focusing on finding a suitable job (and money) or climbing the corporate ladder. To a certain extend, we do have students working part-time, while working young adults studying part-time. Then, young adults in their late 20’s are also focusing on starting a family, if not undergoing the dating scene. Volunteerism or community service suffers as a result of lack of priority in Malaysian young adults. I must say that the need or importance to generate more income in today’s living conditions has also resulted in personal spare time otherwise available for volunteerism being exchanged with money generating or additional income activities.
On the other hand, I must admit that Rotaract and like many other NGOs lack publicity, promotion, marketing or PR efforts to create the much needed awareness and interest. There are thousands of NGOs out there wanting to increase their memberships (like Rotaract) from this pool of young adults which are limited.
Then, we have the Rotaract’s intangible benefits that require much persuasion and conviction to first-timers. Members are required to spend (or invest, in my terms) precious time and personal money (expenses), but the benefits that one gets is not tangible and many times not instantly received or seen. It’s a tough ‘business’ selling hope, care, world understanding, and fellowship. What more if the ‘sales people’ we have are volunteers and selling during their past time? Young adults know (or being told) that if they spend money and time in obtaining an academic degree, they will be assure of a better future, both monetary and recognition wise. Do Rotaract enjoy such perception? Who cares if you’re a Rotaractor (or volunteer of any NGOs)? Do yours or my boss (employer) cares? Sadly, it may not even add value to your job resume.
To conclude my response to this question, I wish to say that personally I’ve come across many other great and beneficial NGOs available for young adults here in Malaysia; but these organizations are also not having good numbers of membership I truly believe they deserve.
Q8) After hearing your response on the previous question, it gives one a second thought of joining or participating in Rotaract or any other NGOs. Do you think Rotaract membership will decrease in the near future based upon your points stated earlier (above)?
Well it’s hard for me to predict, but what I can be certain is that if Rotaractors continue doing what they are doing now or since a decade a go; membership numbers will not have any significant changes, either the positive or negative ends. I’ve seen Rotaractors come and go (retired at age 30). Although the majority of young adults, as per what I’ve described in my earlier points, will not find Rotaract attractive or beneficial; there will always be this niche or extraordinary young adults who fit and see Rotaract the way I and other Rotaractors, past or present, sees it. This has somewhat been a natural survival system experienced by Rotaract. In summary, Rotaract will survive through time. But to thrive, Rotaract requires more than this.
Q9) From your experience, do you have any recommendations that may help Rotaract here to thrive to a desirable stage?
I dare to say I’ve tried numerous methods and approaches when I was a Rotaractor. As the record shows, Rotaract membership currently is not at a promising figure to many of us. I guess we have to reach our destination first in order to review what we have not done right and how can we do it better. I guess I’ve reached the end of my Rotaract journey, and hopefully what I’m about say here will not be considered as lip service to certain individuals.
We should start with leadership, at the club level. The strength of Rotaract foundation lies within each club. It’s like the analogy, the strength of the nation lies within family institution. If our nation should consist of broken or malfunctioned families, how could we think of progress? If clubs are in unhealthy or concerning state, how can we speak of progress in Rotaract as a whole? A good or great leader can do wonders to an otherwise unprogressive or weakening club. How do we get good or great leaders to lead a club? This is a question I once asked myself. There are 2 means – internally and externally. Internally, existing members need to be nurtured or developed into leaders. Succession planning is key. Externally, capable leaders are invited or convinced to join membership and subsequently lead the club.
It is a norm that any club will consist of very active, occasionally active, seldom active, and non-active members at any one point in time. Age wise, we will have the young ones, not so young ones, and old (retiring) ones. Competency wise, we may have the knowledgeable, skillful, talented, and gifted. Not forgetting, Rotaract is also open to men and women. The challenge is to strike the right balance or mix throughout these demographics. Problem may arise if imbalance occurs. Clubs should put some thought and action into this. That’s my second recommendation.
Then, clubs have to put in more focus and effort in club meetings. Venue is the least concerning to me. The program and proceedings should be the key factors. Clubs need to remind themselves that club meetings are the door to club and projects or activities are the windows (pun intended). Potential members (guests) need a way to get in. Make sure we have club meeting, activities and project, no matter how small they may seem. Everyone I know has their initial experience of Rotaract either at club meetings or projects. Rotaractors need to ensure that the right image (or perception) is projected by the club and experienced by guests. Club meetings need to be organized, well prepared and enjoyable all at the same time. Members (and guests) shouldn’t have the thought that club meetings are a waste of time. What's more time wasting than club meetings? Waiting! It’s time to ask ourselves, what is really holding members back from being punctual? Again I need to stress; it’s not the venue that will make the difference. It’s Rotaractors, each and everyone of us individually that will make a difference to the experience a guest feels or gets from our company. Be aware of our actions and words. Show them our hospitality, fellowship and fun. Then only people are attracted to our clubs. This is easier said than done in most instances, but not impossible.
The forth comment I’ll be pointing out is marketing and publicity. My view is Rotaract is not effective in this much needed area, perhaps due to the lack of marketing and PR students or professionals in the organization. Otherwise, our efforts and methods have not been effective or sufficient all this time. We failed to recognize that marketing and PR is a continuous exercise, and not to be paused at any one time. Being the age of information technology, I thought such efforts would be made easier. I guess it’s too easy until we forgot the usefulness and proper methods to achieve results from it. We have the internet (websites, blog, chat, etc), emails, mobile phones (sms, mms, etc), cyber cafes, more radio stations and magazines (publications) than 10 years ago, and yet to get the Rotaract name or message across to young adults seem unsuccessful. I must admit, I’ve not used all these channels during my days; and most probably that is a reason why Rotaract is still unheard of generally amongst youth.
Lastly, I’m also of the opinion that Rotaractors (in general) have sent an irrelevant (or perhaps out-dated) message to young adults about the potentials and benefit of Rotaract. Most of us are guilty by telling people Rotaract is a community service and charity organization, or least these are the first few pointers or majority explanation we give people. I believe we may not (and will not) hit our potential members’ on-the-spot with such description and clarification about Rotaract. Perhaps it’s time we profess Rotaract as a personal and professional development organization with immense opportunity and network around the world. These are Rotaract objectives we spoke or shared the least with people. Have we tried this approach? From my observation, we have not. I believe there’s no harm trying. We can’t expect change if we keep doing the same (old) thing, right?
It was both by coincident and choice. I migrated to KL in early 1994, and got in touch with a friend who was an Interactor. She was the VP in her club and when she completed Form 5, a Rotaractor of Gombak contacted and invited her to club meetings. I still remember the telephone conversation. She mentioned something about a Rotaractor who has been bugging her to attend their club meeting for the past few weeks. I laughed and thought that was funny – perhaps the Rotaractor wanted to date her. So, as to end the constant calling to attend meetings, she summoned up 6 friends majority ex-Interactors (including me) both from her Interact club and college to join her in attending this meeting. In return, we were promised the opportunity to meet new friends of the opposite gender. (p.s. The six of us do not really know each other, you see). At that time, how could a single and lonely guy who just settled in the big city like me refused?
It was a Saturday afternoon; we took the bus and congregated at Lebuh Ampang before proceeding to Jalan Medan Pasar (the venue of the club meeting) by foot. We were supposed to locate a college named Bedford Girls College somewhere behind the Central Market. We found the college, but no Rotaractors. We wait for about 15 minutes before being informed that the club meeting was postponed, by a Gombak Rotaractor who was there because he thought that Saturday was a meeting day and also got to know the postponement after calling the President. As we were about to leave the 2nd floor of the otherwise closed college, we heard a kind of laughter, noise and commotion coming from the 4th floor. Being a young curious lad at that time, I climbed 2 floors up and investigated. What did we know? Another Rotaract club was about to begin their meeting as well. It was the Pudu Rotaract Club instead. Instead of leaving without achieving our main intention set earlier, I convinced the others to spend the hour at the club meeting. Since then, I fell in love with Rotaract; or to be more precise, the Rotaract Club of Pudu.
Q2) Why did you decide to become a Rotaractor?
This may sound like nonsense to majority of youth today. I wanted to do something more meaningful during my weekends compared to shopping (or window shopping most of the time), watching TV or sleeping at home. I had a hobby then – photography. It was quite a costly past time then. A portion of my salary went to films, processing them, and transportation cost. Digital cameras weren’t introduced yet back then. I also realized I lack many other skills, being fresh out of school. To many people’s surprise, I was really a shy boy back then, without much socializing or inter-personal skills. I wanted to develop this and other related leadership skills, and I knew Rotaract can offer me these opportunities. The other reasons I joined Rotaract were also to meet new friends and perhaps do a bit of charity or service. All in all, it was for rather selfish reasons, so to speak.
Q3) People say they do not have much time nowadays. It was noted that you were having a day time job and night classes during your earlier years in Rotaract. Where did you find the time and how did you pulled through?
It’s simple math, really. I worked from 9am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays; and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. Classes were from 6pm to 9pm, 3 out of 5 weekdays. This left me with 2 evenings in weekdays, 1½ days in the weekends. People say Rotaract or any volunteer work is time consuming. Yes, it is. But it is we who decides how much time is given. We can spend half a day in a week for Rotaract activities and meetings, and we can also spend half of our weeks on Rotaract stuff. It’s voluntary, remember.
How did I pull through? Well, we got to like what we are doing in Rotaract. I’m glad I didn’t need to do anything I don’t like in Rotaract. Better yet, we need to be passionate. You’ll be surprised what passion can do to anyone. That’s how I pulled through – Prioritized my time and did what I was passionate about. To top that, I was actually dating my current wife then. She always lamented that I'm more passionate in Rotaract than in our relationship.
Q4) How did you become so passionate about Rotaract?
Personally, I believe the formula or ingredients to create ‘Passion’ are time, purpose, and motivation. When we have these 3 mixed at the right amount, we get passionate. I must say these 3 factors played a significant role in creating the passion I needed in Rotaract. Firstly, passion needs time to be cultivated. This is particularly relevant to allow experiences to settle in. We can’t really demand passion from someone if he/she just sat his/her eyes on that something. My passionate point came when I approach my second membership year. So much so, I gave additional attention and time for Rotaract.
Secondly, we can’t be passionate if we do not know our purpose in life or at any particular point in our life and the reason(s) we are attracted to that something. Whether the purpose is good or otherwise is irrelevant. I know the purpose I joined Rotaract and believed in its objectives were in accordance to my life principles, and Rotaract could help me get to where I wanted to go and what I wanted to achieve at that time.
Thirdly, when passion is built upon and needed to be sustained, motivation is the fuel or energy supplies to ensure the passion we have do not run out of steam. Amongst the motivation I received were the enjoyment experienced when being with friends (members), the improvement in leadership and management skills obtained, enlarged network circle of friends, the happy faces on the individuals Rotaract has touched, and not forgetting an understanding partner.
Q5) How has Rotaract benefited you?
Wow! The list will be long, but to keep it simple and short, I shall keep it to these 2 areas - Opportunities and Self Development. Through Rotaract and its association with Rotary, I’ve been given various opportunities to experience and achieved several life pursuits otherwise not possible if I wasn’t a Rotaractor. I’ve performed dances on stage, organized various projects both fund-raising and service oriented, lead various teams of volunteers who were not paid to work with me, gave public speeches to thousands, witnessed the suffering and predicament of unfortunate individuals in our society, made friends from overseas, and learned what protocol meant in our society.
From the self development aspect; I’ve learned and developed numerous life- or street-smart skills that can’t be found in any tertiary institutions’ subject. To name a few; how to market without money, managing others without giving monetary rewards, leadership by example, entrepreneurship, practical communication skills, and multi-tasking.
Q6) Rotaract has not grown (much) in terms of membership numbers since you joined more than a decade ago. Do you think Rotaract is still relevant to youth today?
I’ll reply this with a resounding “Yes!” Rotaract’s objectives are based upon human principles that do not expire through time. Self- and professional development, world peace and understanding, and respect for others are universal principles of life that transcend religion, race, and nationality. These objectives also underlay the general needs of youth today, whether locally or internationally. Rotaract in principle will not go out-dated. But, it is what Rotaract does (meaning its members) that defines or translates these objectives. Therefore, Rotaractors’ actions (or non-action) are what is important. It is what we say, do and think that the youth today will perceive Rotaract’s relevance in this new millennium.
Personally and saying from a local perspective, I sincerely believe there is more relevancy now than a decade ago. Graduates are unable to secure jobs and amongst the major causes are the lacks of communication skills (especially English), the over-prioritized of academic pursuits resulting in not well-rounded individuals, the chase for materialism, and the involvement in drugs and other unhealthy activities. I rest my case.
Q7) Why then Rotaract is not enjoying the acceptance or growth it duly deserves, in terms of membership numbers? Rotaract in Malaysia is in existence for close to 4 decades now, but the membership numbers is not in a pleasing state many would like it to be.
I guess by responding to this question, it is like having to give excuses or to blame someone. Well, after being for quite some time with this organization, I shall respond to this as factual as I possibly can and speaking from a majority perspective. Before I proceed on the Malaysian scene, it is a point to note that Rotaract as an international organization is not doing well in the membership growth aspect in almost all 5,000 plus Rotaract clubs. It is not an isolated or national issue.
Rotaract is only eligible to young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 years. Although this may represent a huge portion of the country’s active and productive population, the sociology aspect is one of the challenging factors Rotaract is facing currently. Young adults within these ages are either still in tertiary education institutions or beginning to step into the working world and establishing dream careers. The former group has always been advised to spend more time in academic pursuits, while the latter group is focusing on finding a suitable job (and money) or climbing the corporate ladder. To a certain extend, we do have students working part-time, while working young adults studying part-time. Then, young adults in their late 20’s are also focusing on starting a family, if not undergoing the dating scene. Volunteerism or community service suffers as a result of lack of priority in Malaysian young adults. I must say that the need or importance to generate more income in today’s living conditions has also resulted in personal spare time otherwise available for volunteerism being exchanged with money generating or additional income activities.
On the other hand, I must admit that Rotaract and like many other NGOs lack publicity, promotion, marketing or PR efforts to create the much needed awareness and interest. There are thousands of NGOs out there wanting to increase their memberships (like Rotaract) from this pool of young adults which are limited.
Then, we have the Rotaract’s intangible benefits that require much persuasion and conviction to first-timers. Members are required to spend (or invest, in my terms) precious time and personal money (expenses), but the benefits that one gets is not tangible and many times not instantly received or seen. It’s a tough ‘business’ selling hope, care, world understanding, and fellowship. What more if the ‘sales people’ we have are volunteers and selling during their past time? Young adults know (or being told) that if they spend money and time in obtaining an academic degree, they will be assure of a better future, both monetary and recognition wise. Do Rotaract enjoy such perception? Who cares if you’re a Rotaractor (or volunteer of any NGOs)? Do yours or my boss (employer) cares? Sadly, it may not even add value to your job resume.
To conclude my response to this question, I wish to say that personally I’ve come across many other great and beneficial NGOs available for young adults here in Malaysia; but these organizations are also not having good numbers of membership I truly believe they deserve.
Q8) After hearing your response on the previous question, it gives one a second thought of joining or participating in Rotaract or any other NGOs. Do you think Rotaract membership will decrease in the near future based upon your points stated earlier (above)?
Well it’s hard for me to predict, but what I can be certain is that if Rotaractors continue doing what they are doing now or since a decade a go; membership numbers will not have any significant changes, either the positive or negative ends. I’ve seen Rotaractors come and go (retired at age 30). Although the majority of young adults, as per what I’ve described in my earlier points, will not find Rotaract attractive or beneficial; there will always be this niche or extraordinary young adults who fit and see Rotaract the way I and other Rotaractors, past or present, sees it. This has somewhat been a natural survival system experienced by Rotaract. In summary, Rotaract will survive through time. But to thrive, Rotaract requires more than this.
Q9) From your experience, do you have any recommendations that may help Rotaract here to thrive to a desirable stage?
I dare to say I’ve tried numerous methods and approaches when I was a Rotaractor. As the record shows, Rotaract membership currently is not at a promising figure to many of us. I guess we have to reach our destination first in order to review what we have not done right and how can we do it better. I guess I’ve reached the end of my Rotaract journey, and hopefully what I’m about say here will not be considered as lip service to certain individuals.
We should start with leadership, at the club level. The strength of Rotaract foundation lies within each club. It’s like the analogy, the strength of the nation lies within family institution. If our nation should consist of broken or malfunctioned families, how could we think of progress? If clubs are in unhealthy or concerning state, how can we speak of progress in Rotaract as a whole? A good or great leader can do wonders to an otherwise unprogressive or weakening club. How do we get good or great leaders to lead a club? This is a question I once asked myself. There are 2 means – internally and externally. Internally, existing members need to be nurtured or developed into leaders. Succession planning is key. Externally, capable leaders are invited or convinced to join membership and subsequently lead the club.
It is a norm that any club will consist of very active, occasionally active, seldom active, and non-active members at any one point in time. Age wise, we will have the young ones, not so young ones, and old (retiring) ones. Competency wise, we may have the knowledgeable, skillful, talented, and gifted. Not forgetting, Rotaract is also open to men and women. The challenge is to strike the right balance or mix throughout these demographics. Problem may arise if imbalance occurs. Clubs should put some thought and action into this. That’s my second recommendation.
Then, clubs have to put in more focus and effort in club meetings. Venue is the least concerning to me. The program and proceedings should be the key factors. Clubs need to remind themselves that club meetings are the door to club and projects or activities are the windows (pun intended). Potential members (guests) need a way to get in. Make sure we have club meeting, activities and project, no matter how small they may seem. Everyone I know has their initial experience of Rotaract either at club meetings or projects. Rotaractors need to ensure that the right image (or perception) is projected by the club and experienced by guests. Club meetings need to be organized, well prepared and enjoyable all at the same time. Members (and guests) shouldn’t have the thought that club meetings are a waste of time. What's more time wasting than club meetings? Waiting! It’s time to ask ourselves, what is really holding members back from being punctual? Again I need to stress; it’s not the venue that will make the difference. It’s Rotaractors, each and everyone of us individually that will make a difference to the experience a guest feels or gets from our company. Be aware of our actions and words. Show them our hospitality, fellowship and fun. Then only people are attracted to our clubs. This is easier said than done in most instances, but not impossible.
The forth comment I’ll be pointing out is marketing and publicity. My view is Rotaract is not effective in this much needed area, perhaps due to the lack of marketing and PR students or professionals in the organization. Otherwise, our efforts and methods have not been effective or sufficient all this time. We failed to recognize that marketing and PR is a continuous exercise, and not to be paused at any one time. Being the age of information technology, I thought such efforts would be made easier. I guess it’s too easy until we forgot the usefulness and proper methods to achieve results from it. We have the internet (websites, blog, chat, etc), emails, mobile phones (sms, mms, etc), cyber cafes, more radio stations and magazines (publications) than 10 years ago, and yet to get the Rotaract name or message across to young adults seem unsuccessful. I must admit, I’ve not used all these channels during my days; and most probably that is a reason why Rotaract is still unheard of generally amongst youth.
Lastly, I’m also of the opinion that Rotaractors (in general) have sent an irrelevant (or perhaps out-dated) message to young adults about the potentials and benefit of Rotaract. Most of us are guilty by telling people Rotaract is a community service and charity organization, or least these are the first few pointers or majority explanation we give people. I believe we may not (and will not) hit our potential members’ on-the-spot with such description and clarification about Rotaract. Perhaps it’s time we profess Rotaract as a personal and professional development organization with immense opportunity and network around the world. These are Rotaract objectives we spoke or shared the least with people. Have we tried this approach? From my observation, we have not. I believe there’s no harm trying. We can’t expect change if we keep doing the same (old) thing, right?
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