VIBES

August 2023 - 1st Issue Happiness For All

VIBES CONTENTS editorial Board 1 Southeast asia regional team 2023/2024 2-3 Messages 4 4 IPE Charming Shen 5 AP Keiko Tonegawa 5 APE Joan Wong 6 RD Deepak Bhandari 6 RDE Helena Cheah IPRD Rachan Maneekarn 7 89th SEA Regional Conference 8 Summary of 89th Sea Regional conference by PAP Edward ong 9 - 12 89th SEA REGIONAL CONFERENCE pictorial TIMELINE 13 - 23 Life is about Creating Memories 14 - 15 Hong Kong Speaks 14 14 IPDG Pinky Seung - New Territories East, Hong Kong 15 RSD IBC PDG Tony Chan - Island East Club, Hong Kong 15 PRD Andy Fu - Tsim Sha Tsui Club, Hong Kong RSD BF Sandy Kwok - Y Service Club of Tsuen Wan Metro, Hong Kong

VIBES 16 - 17 CONTENTS 17 17 Malaysia Speaks 17 RSD CS Stephanie Cheah - Silver State Y Service Club 18 - 19 Fellowship Director Justine Lim - Silver State Y Service Club CP Rose Lee - Silver State Y Service Club 19 19 Singapore Speaks 20 - 21 Rebecca Thio - YMI Liaison, Singapore DG Clarence Ling - Beta Chapter, Singapore 21 21 Nepal & Taiwan Speak 22 - 23 RSD CS Surendra MC - Lumbini Club, Nepal IPE Charming Shen - YMC Taipei Downtown Club, Taiwan 23 23 Thailand Speaks 24 - 35 PISG Takao Nishimura - Chiangmai Club RSD EF Supaluck Promkuntha - Chiangmai Club 25 26 News Update 27 28 - 30 Area Youth Convocation (25 - 29 August 2023) 31 - 32 Area Convention (3 - 5 November 2023) 33 - 34 Beta Chapter Installation - 2nd July 2023 35 Thailand Joint Installation - 20th July 2023 35 Hong Kong Joint Installation - 22nd July 2023 Y Service Club of Lumbini Installation - 29th July 2023 36 SEA TROIKA 2022/2023 Booster Member Awards Positive Vibes - The Pursuit of Happiness

EDITORIAL BOARD Advisor RD Deepak Bhandari Chief Editor RSD BE RDE Helena Cheah Editor Editor CS Phyllis Tan CP Ronald Ang VIBES Pg 1

SOUTHEAST ASIA REGIONAL TEAM 2023/2024 ) VIBES Pg 2

SOUTHEAST ASIA REGIONAL TEAM 2023/2024 SOUTHEAST ASIA REGIONAL ADVISORs 2023/2024 VIBES Pg 3

Dear Y’s Men Friends, Y’s Men is an excellent organization which promotes humanity, love, leadership and faith to the world. With a bulletin called “VIBES” I believe it will communicate effec- tively to all the members the values, targets and goals it hopes to achieve. It will be effective in promoting the growth of membership too. It’s main objective is mostly to convey news updates on the district, region, area and international level. I hope you can create a valuable and useful bridge among your SEA Region members and menettes via “VIBES”. I wish you success in your endeavour Kind Regards and blessings IPE Charming Shen Dear RD Deepak, RDE Helena, PRD/APE Joan, and leaders and members of the Southeast Asia Region: Heartiest greetings and congratulations on publishing the first issue of “Vibes.” I am sure “Vibes” will serve as an excellent means of communication, information dissemination, and knowledge sharing. I want to congratulate the Editorial Team of the bulletin headed by RDE Helena for their dedication. I want to take this opportunity to elaborate on my theme and what lies behind it. My theme is “Be the light for change.” I chose this theme, hoping that each of you will shine and lead and make necessary changes in your club, District, Region, and internationally. You will interact with people in various types of fellowship when engaging in activities. Please use the fellowship opportunities to make further positive changes. As I said in my slogan, “Shine and empower through fellowship,” you will shine and empower yourselves when you make changes. Thus, you will contribute to realizing your RD’s theme: “Happiness for All.” I hope your Region continues demonstrating unified strength under the most diversified spectrum of cultures. We know the members engage in valuable community service projects and push various measures to protect the environment. You will have many opportunities to engage in fellowship in and outside the Region. I hope you will set exemplary models for utilizing fellowship opportunities in creating new projects or programs to contribute to “Happiness for All.” With the visionary leadership of RD Deepak Bhandari and the rich legacy inherited from past leaders, I know the Region will continue to strive for the better. I wish you all the best, and I look forward to reading about your achievement, progress, and challenges in the first and following issues of the “Vibes.” Regards, Keiko Tonegawa Area President 2023-2024 Asia Pacific Area VIBES Pg 4

Dear all, Thank you for having me in the 1st SEA Region Bulletin. First of all, I congratulate RD Deepak Bhandari and his Regional team on their new installation. I wish their effort and work every success in 2023 to 2024 under his leader- ship. I like the theme and slogan of SEA Region this year: Happiness for All. Helping others is the foundation of happiness. What we are doing now is providing a betterment of mankind through the execution of our community projects and supporting YMCA programmes. In the process, we not only gain satisfaction from the programmes, but we are also building fellowship in our clubs. I do hope everyone in our Region is happy and enjoys his/ her club life. Under the COVID-19 restrictions over the past three years, the Asia Pacific Area Convention (AC) had not been held physically. This year, the convention is hosted by the Southeast Asia Region, Hong Kong District and it will be held from November 3 to 5, 2023 in Hong Kong. This is a very good opportunity to meet with your brother club and old friends, and exchange ideas together. Here, I am really looking forward to seeing you in Hong Kong and enjoying our joyful and inspirational event together. The theme of AC this year is: Empower, Lead & Shine. Let us all be empowered to lead. Lastly, I appreciate the RSD-Bulletin Editor/ RDE Helena Cheah for her excellent job in the design and the coordina- tion work. It is not an easy job to produce a bulletin. Keep up the good work. Yours Y’sly, Joan Wong Asia Pacific Area President Elect My Fellow Y’s Men, Y’s Ladies, Y’s Youth, Namaskar and Warm Greetings I want to begin by saying it is my honour and great pleasure to have the opportunity to serve as the South- east Asia Regional Director 2023-2024. I am proud to have such a dedicated executive team with a deep commitment to this Region. I would like to congratulate and thank all Regional team and members of the region. I am confident we will have a busy and rewarding year. At every stage in our lives, Y’s Men International has something for each of us. From the moment we became Y’s Men, the responsibility of Community Service, International Support, partnership with YMCA , Y’s Mentees & Y’s Youth , Cultural Exchange , Extension , International Brother Clubs was open to us –and it became our responsibility to choose how best to serve. Y’s Men International has been launching various celebration and activities; I hope we together will help to SEA Region to achieve our goals of respecting one another, chartering new clubs including y’s youth club extension and development, Integrating community service and cultural exchange, proving leadership training and promotion of International Programs and legacy funds and best uses of Technology. SLOGAN: \" HAPPINESS FOR ALL\" HAPPINESS FOR ALL: Self-satisfaction is happiness. The balance of emotions (more positive feelings than negative ones) and life satisfaction (how satisfied we feel in different areas of our lives, including relationships, service, achievements, and other things that we consider important) is happiness. For happiness for all, I would like to introduce the concept of altruism, which means selflessly helping other people without expecta- tion. Altruism is when we act to promote someone else’s welfare, even at a risk or cost to ourselves. Most people want happiness for themselves, but very few people wish happiness for others, so why not wish happiness for everyone? Trust me, I have been happiest when I have been of service to someone else—to needy children in education for all, to needy women in women's empowerment, to elderly people in warm and festival cloth distribution, and service to natural disaster victims and serving to YMI. It is the best feeling. So be of service, always smile, and provide happiness for all. With warmest regards, Happiness for All! Deepak Bhandari, Ph.D. Scholar SEA Regional Director 2023-2024 VIBES Pg 5

Greetings I am excited to present the first issue of our SEA Regional e-News. It is called VIBES. Its objective is to enable the readers to embrace the good vibes of positive energy. Positive energy is everything about an uplifting, encouraging radiant vibe that brings on good feelings. Positive energy is attracted to positive energy. People with positive energy tend to be very present in their lives, radiating their beautiful energy in everything they do. They radiate kindness and generosity like confetti. The feature article in this first issue focuses on the 89th SEA Conference in Bangkok which has success- fully brought many countries like Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, Nepal and Taiwan together in solidarity by sharing warm fellowship and camaraderie. Many zoom acquaintances became great friends. So many precious memories were made and cherished. This e-bulletin is designed to be interactive, allowing the participants to freely share their thoughts and feelings. Feelings are very much like waves. We can't stop them from coming but we can choose which one to surf. I wish to give a big applause and thank you to all the amazing Y's Men and Y's Ladies from the different countries who had made waves by stepping forward to express their individuality, emotions and creativity in the articles they have generously shared with us in this first issue. Thank you for your invaluable cooperation. Thank you for helping us to remember and feel the enthusiasm and excitement all over again. I would also like to thank all senior leaders who had graciously contributed the greeting messages. Thank you for your encour- agement and support. I would also like to show my appreciation to our talented official photographer, PRD Andy Fu for capturing numerous significant and meaningful moments that enable the whole story of the conference to be told as a Pictorial Timeline. A picture indeed paints a thousand words. Looking at the beautiful pictures makes us smile and a smile attracts happiness like a magnet. Happiness is remembering all the good times and sharing them with others. We attract the good energy that we give out. Spread good vibes. Be positive. Be happy. Be blessed. RDE RSD BE Helena Cheah Chief Editor. Greetings. It is my great honor to greet you all as the Immediate Past Regional Director in the first South- east Asia Regional E-Bulletin under the new leadership of RD Deepak Bhandari. As RD Troika, following tradition, I have an immense shared responsibility with RD Deepak and RDE Helena Cheah to work together in our greatest capacity to achieve the SEA mission. We realize how crucial communication is in our organization for success. One of the most effective methods for ensuring that all members understand one another is to increase coor- dination and ensure effective leadership. This e-Bulletin, which contains concise information, prominently featured news stories and timely updates, will be released on a regular basis for members and readers. This year, we are fortunate to have RDE Helena Cheah as the Chief Bulletin Editor together with her dedicated edito- rial team which was also resposible for the e-Bulletin ‘Voices’ during her term as SMIT District Governor. She intends to use the bulletin to promote articles that give out positive vibes, which will complement the SEA Reginal theme \"Happiness for All\" successfully. To assist her team in continuing to do a good job, I would like to encourage every club in the SEA Region to support her by submitting programs and activities on a regular basis, even if it is just simple information that can touch our hearts and lives and create positive feelings for the team. We hope the Bulletin Editor's team will keep on inspiring us and our leaders to work diligently in helping our communities to fulfill the SEA Region's aims and objectives. I hope you will enjoy reading all the articles and I wish the SEA Regional e-News every success. Y’sly yours, Rachan Maneekarn IPRD SEA Region VIBES Pg 6

sea regional conference 89th SEA Regional Conference 26 - 27 May 2023 Bangkok, Thailand smit district council meeting VIBES Pg 7

summary of 89th sea regional conference Excitement was in the air when official announcements on the SMIT District and SEA Regional Conferences were received. Finally, we could meet physically after 3 years of the Covid-19 pandemic. Held on 26-27 May 2023, it was safely held in Bangkok at the very comfortable and economical Arize Hotel, about 8 minutes walk to two neighbouring malls. Despite this attraction, attendance at all sessions was very encouraging. The intimate working relationship of our District and Regional leaders with Bangkok Club as host and local organisers, produced a very balanced and enjoyable programme, sharing of District and Regional work, while focusing more on cultivating friendship and fellowship. The SMIT District meeting was efficiently completed within the first morning. After a hearty lunch, a simple, yet solemn opening ceremony for the Regional Conference took place. A moment of silence was observed accompanied with several slides of our late PRD Frederick Ng who passed away on 3rd April 2023. We were honoured also with IPE Charming Shen’s attendance. He encouraged with his vision and challenge for the Region to accomplish. Veteran environmentalist, Assoc. Prof. Dr Wasan Jompakdee spoke passionately on “Sustainability” based on the UN SDG – Combating Global Warming, Climate Change, sharing briefly his many years of contribution in Chiangmai. The evening surprised with “Aroi” Thai dishes and entertained by the Ban Thai Sri Vieng School with three very tradi- tional dances in elaborate costumes. On the second day RD Rachan Maneekarn started with his annual report and the financial report. We then witnessed the installation of RD Deepak Bhandari by IPE Charming. RD Rachan installed Selina Chan and Clarence Ling solemnly as DGs of HK District and SMIT District respectively. DG Helena Cheah of Ipoh Silver State Club was announced elected as RDE and CP Dr Steve Kok elected as DGE of SMIT. IPE Charming presented Honorary Membership Awards to PAP Edward Ong and PRD Norman Wee, and the 2021-22 Elmer Crowe DG Award to Rachan and Deepak. After presenting his “Outlook” and Theme of “Happiness for All” for the new Term, RD Deepak introduced his Regional Team and surprised leaders with gifts and mementos in appreciation of their service. The evening was punctuated with more Thai food, singing, dancing and great camaraderie fellowship enjoyed by all. The next morning, a meaningful closing Sunday service was held with a father and son harpists who strummed beautifully to our songs of praise and thanksgiving. We place our great appreciation to the District and Regional Troika, Bangkok Club as Host and especially the Local Organising Committee led by CP Steve Kok who negotiated rates for the catering, hotel room and facilities. I thoroughly appreciate the Conference and glad that I attended. All Praise & Thanks be to God - Journaled by PAP Edward Ong VIBES Pg 8

89th SEA Regional Conference Timeline 24th May 2023 Early birds from Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia 25th May 2023 Arrival of Chiangmai & Chiangmai Lanna Arrival of Silver State Malaysia Arrival of Nepal members Steering Committee Meeting Fellowship dinner hosted by IPE Charming Shen VIBES Pg 9

89th SEA Regional Conference Timeline 26th May 2023 SMIT Meeting RD Rachan, DG Helena and IPE Charming SMIT Meeting DS Patricia Ching, DG Helena and DGE Clarence Certificate of Appreciation to Chiangmai Club Certificate of Appreciation to Alpha Chapter Certificate of Appreciation to Kathmandu Valley Certificate of Appreciation to PRD Andy Fu for his loyal support Certificate of Appreciation to IPE Charming Shen VIBES Pg 10

89th SEA Regional Conference Timeline 26th May 2023 SMIT ‘A Place You Belong’ song Rasa Sayang Dance by Silver State Malaysia Scrumptious Dinner by RD Rachan and DG Helena Student dancers from Ban Thai Sri Vieng School Umbrella Dance by Chiangmai Club and Chiangmai Lanna 27th May 2023 SEA Conference Installation of RD Deepak RD Deepak receving his RD medallion Congratulations to RD Deepak, Hong Kong DG Selina from IPRD Rachan and SMIT DG Clarence Honorary Member Award Honorary Member Award Presentation of gifts by RD Deepak RDE Election Announcement Presented to PRD Norman Presented to PAP Edward by APEE Joan VIBES Pg 11

89th SEA Regional Conference Timeline 27th May 2023 Nepal members dancing joyfully Dinner Fellowship PAP Edward still has the moves Auld Lang Syne Song 28th May 2023 Pentacost Service by Dr Steve Kok Group photo at Lunch at Bangpu Recreation Centre and worship team Bangpu Recreation Centre Cityview on Alangka Cruise Group photo at Alangka Cruise VIBES Pg 12

VIBES Pg 13

Dear Fellow Y’s Men,Y’s Ladies and Y’s Youth, I'm so happy to be able to attend the 89th Southeast Asia Regional Conference in Bangkok. Due to the pandemic, we could only have meetings on Zoom before, so it's great to finally meet in person. It's like meeting familiar friends for the first time, with people like AP Charming Shen, RD Rachan Maneekarn, DG Helena Cheah, DGE Clarence Ling, CP Steve Peter Kok, and our friends from Nepal. I really appreciate CP Steve Kok choosing Arize hotel for its proximity to shopping malls with a variety of food options and massage places. It's also very convenient for transportation. During the meeting, I was able to find time to meet up with some friends from Thailand, and after the meeting, we also made time for massages. It's the perfect blend of work and relaxation! The topic of combating global warming and climate change for sustainability, delivered by Asst. Professor Dr Wasan Jompakdee, aligns with the green movement that I have been promoting during my tenure. This is an important issue that cannot be ignored. Numerous scientists have warned of the irreversible consequences of climate change. The world is getting hotter, and we all feel it. Our habits of clothing, food, housing, transportation, and consumption are closely tied to this issue. As part of the environmental protection theme with a KPI of 100 tons of carbon reduction, in commemoration of the hundredth anniversary of Y'sMen International, all clubs are encouraged to participate through their daily activities. This conference provides a valuable and enjoyable opportunity to showcase the achievements of our clubs, districts, and regions over the past year. It also allows us to enjoy warm fellowship and congratulate one another on the positive changes we have fostered through our shared passion for the Y’s movement. Once again, congratulations on the successful conference and I wish Southeast Asia Region will continue to grow and prosper. With best wishes, Pinky Seung IPDG Hong Kong(2022-2023) Nineteen Y’s Men and Y’s Ladies of Hong Kong district joined the SEA Conference in Bangkok this year. The organising committee picked a very convenient location for us. It was in the heart of Bangkok. It was close to large shopping centres and easy for our friends to visit us. We were excited to meet old friends and made new friends from different countries in Asia. Y’s Men from Nepal and Cambodia joined us for the first time. Day time program was well planned and dinner was accompanied by cultural activities. The Thai dance performances by Thai students showed high artistic skills. The dances of Nepal Y’s Men at Culture Night enriched my understanding of Nepalese culture. The two-day program was well organised. RD Deepak presented gifts to the leaders of different countries. Surely it made them happy. DGE Helena delivered a mesmerising speech to the audience and received a big round of applause. APE Joan Wong accompanied by HK Y’s Men promoted the Area Convention on stage with group dance which also drew much atten- tion from the audience. In the conference we were able to share our experience of recent developments of Y’s Men movement in Asia. The excursion program was wonderful. Not only were the sightseeing points interesting, the seafood and the cruise were also great. During the excursion we were able know our friends from other clubs much better. We would like to thank the organising committee for a successful conference. We appreciate the opportunity to make new friends and exchange gifts with old friends. We look forward to meeting all Y’s Men and Ladies again in November at the Area Convention in HK. Y’sly, RSD IBC PDG Tony Chan VIBES Pg 14

Every year I never miss attending this YMI annual major event. I call this a major event, because to my knowledge Southeast Asia (SEA) Region is probably the largest in terms of YMI geographic size. There are ten countries/ cities in two districts in this SEA Region, namely: Hong Kong District (Hong Kong, Macau & Nepal) and SMIT District (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia and Indone- sia). Different countries have different cultures and it is very exciting to reunite with Y's Men & Y's Ladies from different countries. This year, SEA Regional Conference (RC2023) was held in Bangkok on 26-27 May 2023 with an estimated seventy attendees from nineteen clubs. We were honoured to have the presence of YMI International President Elect /Asia Pacific Area President (IPE/AP) Mr Charming Shen, who helped to add grandeur to the event. The program of RC was well organized, especially the main agenda such as the RD and two DGs Installation Ceremony, testimonials and congratulations from Y's Men members present. Acceptance speeches made by incoming RD Deepak Bhandari, RDE Helena Cheah, DG Selena Chan and DG Clarence Ling after assuming their positions, included their aspira- tions and plans, and these won full applause from the audience. We would like to congratulate the RD and both DGs and wish them success in their term. I was looking forward to the traditional Thai Dance performed by students of Ban Ram Thai Sri Vieng School, and found that their performance was of a very high standard. Together with the performances of different groups and the fellow- ship and cultural exchanges, the atmosphere and mood were high. All the members were very happy to join in and enjoy themselves to the fullest. It was indeed \"HAPPINESS FOR ALL\" Last but not least, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the SEA RC2023 Organizing Committees, especially the host club – the Y's Men Club of Bangkok and Host Committee Chairman CP Dr Steve Kok. I particularly liked the convenient location of the Arize Hotel Sukhumvit. Transport to the hotel by Airport Train and BTS took about 75 minutes and another 10 minutes' walk with my luggage. Hotel room is clean, check-in quite smooth, with free wifi, reasonable room rate, and I felt comfortable during the five nights’ stay. Restaurant food & beverage had enough choices for me, tasted good, with friendly waiters’ smiles. The conference venue was spacious; the lighting and audio-visual facilities met the requirements, the provision of beverages and delicious snacks were also sufficient. Charges were reasonable. In summary, the Arize Hotel was very suitable for RC2023. Y'sly yours, Andy Fu ASD-PR (Asia Pacific Area) PRD (Southeast Asia Region) It was my first time participating in an overseas Y’s Men International conference after I joined Y’s Men for almost 2 years. I want to thank Joan Wong who brought me to this organisation. It had been my wish to join a charity group. Originally we were planning for Bangkok trip. It so happened that SEA Conference was also hosted there. I was so thrilled to see so many friends from different countries and everyone is so friendly. During the conference I learned a great deal from them. I started to understanding what Y’s Men is doing in different parts of the world and their goals. I found Y’s Men International is able to connect people from all around the world. And everyone wants to bring happiness to the rest the world. I’m happy to find people who want to contribute to the community. That’s why people are doing it lifelong. My family also joined the dinner party and there also felt the joy of felloship. I wish and hope to continue participat- ing in more of such events as I feel I am very much a of part this Y’s Men community. Next time when we meet again it will be in a different country. So wonderful. Best regards, RSD BF Sandy VIBES Pg 15

VIBES PG 16

I enjoyed all the programs in this SEA Regional Convention. The 1st night we had dinner and enjoyed all the different dances presented by all the countries that attended. It was a good fellowshop where we get to meet new people and reconnect with old friends. I enjoyed present- ing our Malaysian dance with our members Rose Lee and Justine Lim. Y’sly RSD CS Stephanie Cheah It was a great opportunity for me to attend the SMIT conference and the SEA regional conference at the same time in Bangkok this year in May after the pandemic mainly because we can have a big fellow- ship meeting together with members who came from different countries. We not only enjoyed the conference, we also enjoyed the programme and meals organised by Bangkok club. Special thanks to DGE Dr Steve Kok and organising committee who had done a great job. Y’sly Fellowship Director Justine Lim When we arrived at the hotel we were greeted with a warm welcome from members of Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong. The welcome felt very homely. DGE Dr Steve Kok and the organising committee did a good job in taking care of everyone in the 89th SEA Regional Conference. The SMIT Meeting went smoothly. The food provided by the hotel was good and I enjoyed all the fellowship I had with everyone at the conference. We danced, we chat and we had fun. The outing we had was memorable and I enjoyed everything Y’sly CP Rose Lee VIBES Pg 17

VIBES Pg 18

It’s my first time participating in a SMIT and Regional Conference of the Y’s Men Interna- tional Club. It's an eye-opener. First impressions can make lasting impact and I have left Bangkok with minted impressions on my mind. The strongest is that of friendships that have grown, persevered and made beautiful over time. They have become friendships of a lifetime. I have not come across any clubs that have such powerful energy made possible through friendships. Another facet that left a strong impact is the cross-cultural aspect of the body. It expanded my horizon as I watched presentations and heard reports from countries of varied cultures, geography and languages. Seeing how each learn from another and the strong helping the weak is heartwarming. Another strong impression is the spirit underlying it all – the heart to reach out for the betterment of another soul, undergirded by lead- ership qualities namely that of idealism, interest, initiative and industry. Putting the impressions together, I see beauty and preciousness of this unique body called Y’s Men International Club. May you go forth and share the love of God and bring hope to many. Best wishes to all from my heart. Rebecca Thio YMI Liaison Singapore We had a wonderful two-day conference in Bangkok, 26-27 May 2023. Delegates stayed at a central location, in Arize Hotel. Accommodation was clean and comfortable, located conveniently near huge shopping centres, a food court, and the metro station. I was on the 7th oor, with a great view of the neighbourhood. The SMIT council meeting commenced with an exchange of gifts and ags. Meeting new and old acquaintances and catching up after the pandemic was very heart warming. That afternoon was the start of 1.5 days of SEA Regional meeting with members carrying in their national ags, lighted candles and scripture reading. One of the speakers, Prof Dr Wasan from Chiangmai, spoke on Green Sustainable Actions in northern Thailand. The evening was fun and relaxing, with the sharing of cultural dancing and singing, performed by talented Y’s Men from HK, Malaysia, Nepal and Thailand. The second day started with a hearty breakfast at the lobby level. We then received reports from the RD and the Treasurer, and witnessed the passing of the mantle of DG of SMIT (from Helena to me) and DG of HK (from Pinky to Selina), and RD (from Rachan to Deepak). That afternoon, the SMIT meeting broke into teams to discuss how best to continue promoting activities in SMIT, HK, & Nepal. Subsequently, the Youth Leadership Conference in Nepal from 23-28 August 2023 , (under Asia Paci c Area), and the HK District conference to be held from 3-5 November 2023 were announced and promoted. The day closed with a nice dinner, with more singing and casual networking. After the conference ended, the schedule on Sunday was free and easy. Some of us went to BangPu for lunch (a military recreation centre, where seagulls feed), then went shopping at ICON Siam, and completed the night with Alangkarn Dinner cruise with Thai classical dances. We saw the Bangkok palace and surrounding develop- ments along the Chao Phraya River. It has been a memorable, unforgettable meeting of old and new acquaintance from around our region. What a blessing to see everyone. I was also blessed to have the support of my home club Beta Chapter: Norman (who received Honorary Membership for his long service in Y’sdom) and Ming (Y’s Menette), and Rebecca, as well as the friendship of Alpha veterans David and Edward. I am grateful to Pastor Steve for his hard work and the Bangkok Club for the hosting arrangements. My new role as DG will lean on the support of the Troika: the most capable Helena as PDG, and the dynamic Steve as DGE. My hope is to bring the spirit of and hope in our Lord Jesus into SMIT District by the way we interact and the activities we organise to touch our respective communities. Best regards, SMIT DG Clarence Ling VIBES Pg 19

VIBES Pg 20

With great enthusiasm and hope, a team of eleven members, led by RDE Deepak Bhandari landed at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Bangkok. Most of our team members attended for the first time such type of mega ceremony at the international level. The delegates of Y’s Men International representing different home clubs and countries made the very first meeting interesting and meaningful. The two-day stay at Arize Hotel was memorable. We, the entire Nepalese team concluded that the 89th SEA Regional Conference had been successfully organised. RD Rachan 2022/23, Chairman of the Organizing Committee as well as the coordinator of the host committee worked hard to make it successful. The participation of Y’s Men & Y’s Ladies from different countries and top leaders from Y’s Men International added value to the program. They contributed greatly to making the program meaningful and successful. The conference theme this year was \"Happiness for All,\" and all attendees learned about the mission of the organization at the district and regional levels. Open discussions on the plans and the presentations as well as the different cultural performances gave the attendees much pleasure. Furthermore, we are very delighted to see Mr Deepak Bhandari representing Nepal taking up his position as RD, and Y’s Lady Helena Cheah elected as RDE for 2023-2024. I would like to congratulate both of them and wish them a successful tenure. Surendra MC IPCP, Lumbini Club, Nepal RSD-BF South East Asia Region I am very happy to attend the 89th SEA Regional Conference and SMIT District Council Meeting which were held together at Arize hotel in Bangkok on May 26-27, 2023. Thanks to RD Rachan Maneekarn’s invitation I had the pleasure and honor to witness this great event which gathered 70-80 participants coming from 7-8 different nations and hosted under Y’s Men’s club of Bangkok by CP Dr Steve Kok. On the arrival date of May 25, 2023 I met a lot of new Y’s Men friends that included DG Ms Helena who was very kind and wise with her daughter. At the so-called “AP Night” I was happy to host this fellowship dinner -- not only did we enjoy good local food, but also establish fellowship among SMIT members (and me, as the current Area President). Over the next two days, the Southeast Asian Regional Convention together with SMIT District Council Meeting under the leadership of RD Rachan and DG Helena progressed smoothly. There were many programs: installations, awards, keynote speeches, and many more. At dinner time, dances and song entertainment were performed by outstanding club members and mennetes. These were incredibly wonderful memories with all my SEA friends. Wishing you all well, and hope to see you again soon. Regards, IPE Charming Shen VIBES Pg 21

VIBES Pg 22

All the participants including me have enjoyed the real face to face Regional Conference held at the Arize Hotel in Bangkok from 26th to 27th May 2023 after Covid-19 has much settled down. I would like to express my appreciation to the host club of the Bangkok Club for their great effort and meticulous preparation led by CP Dr. Steve Kok even with the limited resources and members available from the home club during the conference. This is done with the active support of SMIT DG Helena Cheah & HK DG Pinky Seung and SEA RD Troika leaders who work quietly behind the stage with their club members. It was also an honor to have AP Charming (Mr.Shen, Chi-Ming) during the Conference with his active participation in all the programs including the Sunday Pentacost devotion. There were many good programs during the Conference. Group Discussions on the challenges faced within the District and SEA Region were shared. I was in a group discussion on the revival of the Phnom Penh club since YM. Charlie (Mr.Hem Thel) was in the group and every participant shared the ideas of supporting the revival of Phnom Penh club as a SMIT District Project. I could see potential teamwork among DG SMIT & DG HK District Troika under the leadership of SEA RD Troika. Also it was remarkable to witness the Elmer Crowe Awards for DG Rachan Maneekarn as well as DG Deepak Bhandari for the term of 2021/22. This is a great honor for SEA Region especially for RD Joan Wong to have two DGs to receive the Elmer Crowe Awards together. Congratulations! Looking forward to meeting all of you again in Hong Kong for ASP Area Convention from November from 3rd-6th. Y`sly, Nishi (Takao Nishimura) Chiang Mai Club SEA Regional Advisor I would like to share my thoughts and feelings when I joined the SEA conference in Bangkok. From the moment I arrived at the Arize Hotel, our stay and conference venue, I was impressed by the hospitality of CP Dr Steve Kok from Bangkok Club and all the commit- tee members from SMIT & Hong Kong District who helped to organize this conference. I was very happy and excited to meet all the participants -- especially my old friends from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan -- and unexpected friends from Nepal. I believe that every Y’s Man and Lady will get greater inspiration to strengthen our Y’sdom. I was very happy to see very strong members and even representatives from the international board of Y’s Men joining the confer- ence and sharing their experiences, which was a wonderful encouragement to all the participants. We could clearly see the great fellowship among us. We ate, drank, sang songs and presented our national performances together. It was fantastic. I saw happiness shine from everyone’s eyes. All the participants enjoyed very much the sightseeing which was arranged for them, whether it was the dinner on the Chao Phraya River Cruise, or to Bang Sean (very close to Bangkok) to enjoy the seashore and delicious sea food. I was very happy that every member who joined this conference went back home with lasting impres- sion and happiness. In my opinion, we should all make time to take part in international events like this because you’ll make friends, have more fun, enjoy more experiences and get more inspiration to serve in Y’sdom. Y’sly, RSD EF Supaluck Promkuntha Thailand VIBES Pg 23

VIBES Pg 24

VIBES Pg 25

The 30th Asia Pacific Area Convention November 3 to 5, 2023 in Hong Kong The registration for 2023 AC started a good response recently. Please note that the Super Early Bird Discount of The 30th Asia Pacific Convention in Hong Kong has been extended to July 31, 2023. May I remind you that the super early bird discount for both registration fee and accommodation would not be further extended after July 31, 2023. Please register and reserve the hotel room (as attached, please email the forms to the hotel directly as the email address is shown on the form) as soon as possible. Here is the link to the promotional video: https://clipchamp.com/watch/Xjuf5vIQKPR The website of AC for registration is : www.ymiaspac2023.org Kindly share and forward this email to your region, district and clubs. For any questions about AC, you may send email to me or the Secretariat of AC Host Committee ( email address : [email protected]) VIBES Pg 26

Beta Chapter Installation on 2nd july 2023 YMC Beta Chapter, Singapore 2nd July 2023 Installation of incoming CP Tat Sun Ho by SMIT DG Clarence Ling. Congratulations It was a special day as they installed 3 more new members and also celebrated DG Clarence’s birthday! VIBES Pg 27

VIBES Pg 28

According to tradition, the Y's Men's Clubs in Thailand organized the joint installation of Club Presidents and the Boards of Directors at the start of the new term to continue leadership. The event provides a platform for discovering and developing future leaders as well as reinforcing and forging new partner connections. It is also an opportunity for new leaders to join in international fellowship and learn about the exceptional activities offered as well as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. This service year 2023/24, the YMCs of Bangkok, Chiangmai and Chiangrai (except Chiangmai Lanna which is in the process of appointing a new President) had a hybrid Joint Installation Ceremony performed by DG Clarence Ling for CP/DGE Steve Peter Kok of Bangkok Club, CP Uthaiwan Chaiboonruen of Chiangmai Club and CP Thammanoon Thiwathip of Chiangrai Club at the International Center, YMCA of Chiangmai on July 2023. We would like to thank DG Clarence Ling, RD Deepak Bhandari , PAP David Lua, RDE Helena Cheah, DT Patricia Lim, and all International leaders for coming and sharing great fellowship, and support to all clubs for many years. Following the Joint Installation Ceremony, YMC Chiangmai conducted a regular meeting with a focus on the International Convention: IC2024 in Chiang Mai, Thailand from August 8 to 11, 2024, and held \"a Garage Sale\" the Fundraising program that raised 5,310 Baht during the Fellowship Dinner. VIBES Pg 29

Chiangmai Club ‘Garage Sale’ - Fundraising fellowship dinner VVIBIBEESS PPgg3300

VIBES Pg 31

The major program is the Installation of 15 Club Presidents in Hong Kong District Joint Installation Ceremony 2023-2024 dated on 22nd July, 2023 held at the Club ONE Victoria, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Hong Kong. Inaugural Charge by PRD David Wong, and witnessed by the Honourable Elsie Leung Oi-sir (GBM, JP). Y Service Club of Tsuen Wan Metro was also charted on 22nd July, 2023 in the Hong Kong District Joint Installation Ceremony Dinner 2023-2024. The Charter President is Vincent Yung and Vice President is Sandy Kwok. VIBES Pg 32

VIBES Pg 33

Y Service Club of Lumbini, Nepal 29th July 2023 Installation of incoming CP Devisara Pulami by RD Deepak Bhandari. Congratulations The occasion was graced by distinguished guest Bindu Paudel, member of State Assembly. Congratulatory Messages were sent via video from AP Keiko Tonegawa (Japan), APE Joan Wong (Hong Kong), PAP Hiroyuki Tanaka (Japan), PAP David Lua (Singapore), AT James Kong (Hong Kong), IPRD Rachan Maneekarn (Thailand), RDE Helena Cheah (Malaysia) and DGE Steve Kok (Thailand). The Installation was very successful with good fellowship and good entertainment VIBES Pg 34

SEA TROIKA 2023/2024 IPRD Rachan Maneekarn RD Deepak Bhandari RDE Helena Cheah 2022/2023 BOOSTER MEMBER AWARDS Pg 35 Helena Cheah (Silver State, Malaysia) Joanne Tai (Silver State, Malaysia) Phillip Chan (New Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong) David Yu (New Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong) Gina Cheng (New Territories East, Hong Kong) VIBES

The Pursuit of Happiness There was once a group of 100 people attending a seminar on personal development. In the middle of their talk, the speaker stops and decides to run an impromptu group activity. He hands out a balloon to each attendee and tells them to write their name on it. The balloons are then collected and placed in an adjacent room. The speaker then instructs the 100 attendees to enter that room and, within 5 short minutes, find the balloon with their name on it. Pandemonium breaks loose as they charge in, pushing and colliding with each other as they desperately search for their name. The 5 minutes pass and nobody succeeds. The speaker then tells each person to pick up any random balloon and give it the person whose name is written on it. Within a few minutes everyone has their balloon back. He then said, “What just happened with those balloons is exactly what happens in our search for happiness. We frantically look for it all around us, not knowing where it is.” “Yet our happiness lies in the happiness of others. By giving them their happiness, you get yours.” Moral of the story: Happiness and fulfilment rarely come from selfish pursuits, but almost always come from doing good deeds for others. By helping others we help ourselves. VIBES Pg 36

Thank you for reading e-News VIBES Time to Chill