28-06-2025
Rotary Club of Kinabalu Sutera marks 25 years with excellence award, new leadership
The Incoming Board and Committee Chairs 2025-2026 headed by Incoming President Ken Chong and the club members.
KOTA KINABALU (June 28): The Rotary Club of Kinabalu Sutera (RCKS) celebrated its 25th Installation Ceremony Dinner on June 23 at the Majestic Oriental, Wisma Kinsabina in Penampang.
The event was attended by around 40 members and guests, including Assistant Governor Datuk Aminah Ambrose. The evening was organised under the capable leadership of past president Alice Kunjan, who served as the organising chair and Master of Ceremonies.
Assistant Governor Datuk Aminah Ambrose presents the District 3310 Club Excellence Award with Distinction and the Public Image Award with Merit to outgoing President Dr Richard Gontusan.
In his address, outgoing president Dr Richard Gontusan proudly announced that the club had achieved the District 3310 Club Excellence Award with Distinction, the highest accolade a club can receive in the district for the term. He emphasised that this milestone was a collective achievement made possible by the dedication and synergy of all members.
The award recognised RCKS for meeting all five of Rotary's strategic goals: impactful community service, membership growth, contributions to the Annual Fund and PolioPlus, and the promotion of Rotary's public image.
Before delivering his speech, Dr Richard presented a slideshow showcasing the club's activities and milestones throughout his term, highlighting the breadth and impact of RCKS's community engagements.
The highlight of the evening, the official installation of the incoming Board of Directors and Committee Chairs, was conducted by Assistant Governor Datuk Aminah Ambrose, witnessed by Incoming Assistant Governor for Group 5, Fred Tai.
The newly installed board and committee chairs comprise: President Ken Chong, Immediate Past President Dr Richard Gontusan, President-Elect William Shim, Vice President and Rotary Foundation Chair Datin Betty Hiew, Secretary Alvin Chiang, Treasurer Kevin Ling, Sergeant At Arms Abu Bakar Sheriff, Membership Chair Francis Ng, Club Administration Chair Emily Chong, Community Service Chair Lai Kin Ken, Public Image Chair Jonathan George, Youth Service Chair Alice Kunjan, International Service Chair Datuk Judy Hiew and Vocational Service Chair Ivy Yew.
In his inaugural speech, Incoming President Ken Chong introduced Rotary International's theme for 2025–2026: 'Unite For Good.' He stressed the importance of strengthening the club's foundation through active member engagement and retention. Believing that every member brings unique value, he urged continued commitment to Rotary's mission and values.
Aminah in her speech, commended the club for its outstanding accomplishments, particularly the District 3310 Club Excellence Award with Distinction and a Merit in Public Image. She remarked that these honours were a testament to the passion and dedication of RCKS members, and she extended her heartfelt congratulations to President Ken Chong and the newly installed board.
The Vote of Thanks from the guests to the host was delivered by Incoming Assistant Governor for Group 5 Fred Tai while the Vote of Thanks from the host to the guests was delivered by Incoming PE William Shim.
The event concluded with warm fellowship and camaraderie, marking the beginning of another promising chapter in RCKS's journey of service.
Guided by the spirit of 'Service Above Self' and the unifying theme 'Unite For Good,' the club is set to continue making a lasting impact in the community and beyond.
