Congratulations to PDG Dato’ Khoo Kay Huat – Honoured with the IP Award

PDG Dato’ Khoo Kay Huat has been recognized with the prestigious International President’s Award by Lions International President Fabricio Oliveira, in honor of his outstanding service and unwavering dedication to Lions International.

His hard work, compassion, and leadership continue to inspire fellow Lions, uplift our community, and make a meaningful impact on the world. PDG Dato’ Khoo exemplifies the spirit of “Make Your Mark”—proving that bold steps taken with heart can lead the way forward.

The award was presented by International Director Dato' Yeow Wah Chin at the 30th Charter Anniversary celebration of Lions Club of Georgetown City at E&O Hotel on 8 November 2025. As a proud member of LCGTM, PDG Dato’ Khoo has brought great honor to our club through this well-deserved recognition.

“Leadership is not just about service—it’s about inspiring others to serve with purpose.”

A Talk on Environmental Awareness with “The Invisible Plastic”

As global leaders convene in Geneva to finalize a landmark agreement addressing the escalating crisis of plastic pollution, the Lions Club of George Town Mutiara (LCGTM) echoed this global call to action with a local initiative: an Environmental Education Talk titled “The Invisible Plastic.”


This impactful session reached 750 students across two schools in Penang, namely SJKC Shang Wu and SK St Xavier, reinforcing our belief that youth are the most powerful messengers for change.

We were honored to host Ms. Alicia Tan and her team from Zaneco Sdn.Bhd., who delivered a 45-minute interactive presentation in each school. The talk explored:

· What microplastics are and where they come from

· How they affect human health, marine life, and the environment

· Why awareness and action are urgently needed

The session was brought to life through engaging slides, videos, and real-life examples, sparking curiosity and lively participation. Students responded with enthusiasm, eagerly answering questions and demonstrating a strong interest in the topic. To reinforce the message, free eco-friendly samples were distributed to all participants.

PP May Cheah, Project Organizing Chairperson, reported that the event was a resounding success—achieving its goal of raising awareness and inspiring environmental responsibility among the next generation. Education is the first step toward transformation. When young minds understand, they lead the way.

(In attendance: President Justin Ong, PCC Allan Cheah, PP May Cheah, PP Emery Cheah, and PP Samantha Sam)

 Lions Club of George Town Mutiara (LCGTM) received an application from Mdm Letchmy. A week later, on 1/9/2025, the club interviewed the applicant and considered her medical and financial situation in depth. Moved by her situation, the LCGTM stepped in to assist her.

At 73, Mdm Letchmy was struggling with blurred vision and lacked the financial means to seek treatment. Her husband (78), a retired gardener, also had no fixed income, and their daughter’s modest factory wages were stretched thin supporting both her own family and her parents.

Recognizing the urgency and hardship, LCGTM referred Mdm Letchmy to Pantai Hospital Penang for a medical examination. Her case was reviewed and subsequently approved for free cataract surgery under the Life Renewed programme.

LCGTM expresses gratitude to Pantai Hospital Penang, Life Renewed, and Ophthalmology, Dr. Yew Yih Chian. Thanks to their efforts, Mdm Letchmy has received the necessary care and the invaluable gift of restored vision.

Monthly Needy Family Project – November Spotlight

For November, our club extended heartfelt support to a new beneficiary: Mdm Alameloo Ammal (77yo). She's a widow who struggles with memory loss. Her son passed away recently. He had suffered after a motor accident that severely impacted his brain function, leaving him unable to think clearly or manage daily tasks. The family relies solely on social welfare assistance for their meals. Recognizing their situation, our club has committed to supporting this family for one full year, ensuring they receive consistent aid and the dignity of care they deserve.

We continued our project, giving food groceries to the three other families.

 

Deepavali Sparkles at Rumah Kebajikan Seri Cahaya!

LCGTM and the vibrant Leos of GTMutiara Omega lit up the day with a heartwarming Deepavali celebration that truly brought the Festival of Lights to life! 

From the moment we arrived, laughter echoed through the halls. Familiar faces greeted us—children we once knew now grown tall—and many new little ones beamed with delight as they received mini toys that sparked pure wonder. 

A special stop at our beloved Lions Home Library <Lions Home Library 2011> and upgraded <Lions GTM Library 2012> turned into a creative haven! The Leos handed out festive coloring cards, and the room buzzed with artistic energy. Older children got hands-on with clay crafts, shaping oil lamps and imaginative designs that reflected the spirit of Deepavali. 

No celebration is complete without a feast! Lady Lion Saran worked her culinary magic, serving up delicious vegetarian dishes and aromatic chicken curry that warmed every heart and belly. 

Before we bid farewell, the Lions shared purple packets filled with blessings and biscuits with all residents and staff—a gesture of love, hope, and prosperity. 

It was a day of joy, connection, and meaningful service. Deepavali reminds us that light always triumphs—and together, we made it shine brighter than ever!

Reported by Organising Chairperson PP Saran.

A proud evening at LC Penang Pride’s Charter Night, where ticket sales helped fund their Back to School Project.

Our club was honoured to be invited and supported by President Justin Ong, IPP Derry Tan, and PP Mark Labrooy.

Celebrating Penang Centennial Lions Club's 15th Charter Anniversary with CP Teng, a past president of our club.  Attended by PDG Dato' Khoo KH and PP Mark Labrooy. 

BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

BOARD BRIEFS:     The following are decisions from the recent board meeting held on 14/10/2025 that were approved/adopted/endorsed.

1. The Board endorsed the LIONS GTM Marathon 2026 and appointed PDG Dato' Khoo Kay Huat to be the Organizing Chairperson. 

2. The Board endorsed our participation with LC George Town to celebrate Community Empowering Day at Island 88 on 10/1/2026. Our club, in partnership with Pantai Hospital Penang, will conduct health services. PP May Cheah, OC for Environmental Services, will have a booth to carry out our environmental project.

3. The Board approved an environmental talk at Shang Wu School on June 11, 2025, at 9:00 AM, and at St. Xavier School on the same day at 11:00 AM. PP Peter Koay will coordinate the necessary arrangements with the schools. The invited speaker, Ms. Alicia Tan, an environmentalist and marketing manager from Zantat, Zaneco, and Earthya, will deliver the talk.

4. In conjunction with CNY2026, the board approved a fundraising lunch for the elderly. OC Ln Cindy will report further at the next meeting. 

5. The Board approved PP Sam, OC Hunger Relief project, to chair the Regional Hunger Relief project to be held next year. 

6. The Board has approved to provide support to the needy family of Mdm Alameloo Ammal A/P Govindasamy (77 yo) for a year. The applicant is a widow. She was employed as a dishwasher over a decade ago. She suffers from poor memory and has even forgotten her husband's name. She mumbles that she referred to him as Muthu; he was a laborer who took on various odd jobs. Her son, Srigan (57), has not been employed for the past 20 years following a motor accident that affected his brain function, rendering him unable to think clearly. The flat she rents is in disarray, with three-quarters of the space occupied by boxes, clothing, and unused cardboard. They rely on social welfare funds for their daily meals. Occasionally, goodwillers provide them with food; otherwise, they must seek out places that offer free meals.

Leo Club Activities

GTM Omega Leo Club - Needy Family Project - 16/10/2025

One of the humanitarian initiatives aligned with LCI, a signature project of our club, serves as an exemplary model for the Leos. Today, GTMutiara Omega Leos initiated its Needy Family project, a monthly effort designed to assist those in need. They provided support to an elderly woman living alone. The Leos collected donations and effectively delivered essential items to the needy family, ensuring she knows she is not forgotten. The Leos utilized their own funds and organized fundraising activities for this purpose.

World Sight Day 11/10/2025

GTM Omega Leos carried out a Vision project at Public Market Balik Pulau, on 11.10.2025, in conjunction with World Sight Day. Leos distributed free reading glasses to 50 senior citizens in the Balik Pulau, bringing clearer vision and brighter smiles to our community! Alongside the giveaway, the Leos also shared tips on protecting eye health with the 20-20-20 rule... every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away, for 20 seconds. A simple habit to reduce digital eye strain and keep our vision strong!

8/10/2025 Hunger Relief (October)

7/10/2025 Monthly Needy Family Project (for October)

PP Joyce Cheah shared her heartfelt experience attending the Needy Family Project for October. She brought along essential food supplies to three families in need. October’s outreach was significant.

After delivering the supplies, the Lions stayed on to speak with the families, sharing moments of connection and compassion. Seeing their smiles and hearing their stories reminded us why we serve—it was deeply inspiring and reaffirmed the impact of this project. The joy we witnessed was a quiet but powerful reward. We left with full hearts, grateful to have made a difference.

 

JOINT INSTALLATION OF GTMUTIARA OMEGA LEO CLUB & SACRED HEART HIGH SCHOOL ALPHA LEO CLUB

Our Leo clubs, GTMutiara Omega and Sacred Heart High School Alpha, took part in the Penang Regional Leo Installation & Initiation Ceremony on 27/9/2025. The event was held at INTI International College Penang. Leos from across Penang and the mainland gathered to witness the swearing-in of a new leadership team. 

Omega Leo President, Ceclna Chin Jin Feng, is well-acquainted with the Leo program, having been an Alpha Leo since 2017 and joining GTMutiara Omega in 2020. She has shown unwavering support and has committed to keeping the GTMutiara flag flying high. 

Alpha Leo President Khaw Hui Yuen has an impressive journey of five years in the club and has shown strong leadership and dedication throughout her service. She previously held the position of Vice President for three consecutive years (2022–2025), contributing significantly to the club’s growth and activities. Her commitment and passion for community service continue to inspire fellow members as she begins this new chapter of leadership.

Present at the Leo installation were IPP Derry Tan, who handed over the gavel to Leo Celina and Leo Hui Yuen; and PP May Cheah, a Leo Advisor and former CLD lecturer, also provided her support to the Leos.

29th Installation Lions Club of Kota Budaya

PP Mark Labrooy represented LC George Town Mutiara (LCGTM) at the Lions Club of Kota Budaya Installation themed 'A Heart to Serve' in Kota Bahru on September 20, 2025, at the Kelantan Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

We have been sister clubs since December 4, 1999, when PP Dr. Hing served as our president. Over the past 26 years, our clubs have maintained regular communication and have consistently attended each other's installation and anniversary functions.

At this event, LCGTM participated in a meaningful project at the old folks’ home, where we spent time playing games, giving haircuts, and sharing lunch with the residents. Together with our sister club and other clubs, namely LC Gua Musang and LC Hillview Cameron Highlands, we donated 2 sets of outdoor tables and chairs. 

Leo Club of GT Mutiara Omega, convened its 3rd meeting on September 18, 2025. The meeting was held online as several Leos have started to study in other states. Some of them are working Leos and are unable to be present. 

14/9/2025 Lions Health Carnival @ 1st Avenue Mall, Penang

In conjunction with Childhood Cancer Month, the Lions Club of George Town Mutiara (LCGTM) participated in the Lions Health Carnival held at 1st Avenue Mall. The event featured 11 free health service outlets for the public, including: Vision screening, Hearing tests, Dental checks, Blood pressure and sugar level tests, Foot and live blood analysis, BMI checks, Gua Sha and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Organ donation pledges

LCGTM participated in a stall to inform the public about our joint partnership with Gleneagles Hospital Penang, offering free cataract surgeries, total knee replacements, and paediatric congenital heart operations for eligible applicants. Dr. Hing, who was present, explained that these benefits were extended to individuals from households earning below RM5,000.00 monthly.   

Our Lions distributed 200 informative flyers to the attendees. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude and interest in our project

PP Lilly Teoh, our Club Committee Chairperson for Diabetes & Health Awareness, was away in the north and unable to attend. PP Joyce Cheah, Committee for Paediatric Cancer, was present and actively engaged throughout the event. Other Lions who attended and lent their support included: PCC Allan, PDG Dato' Khoo, PP Sam, PP Dr. Hing, and PP Leong.

Our presence at the carnival had made a meaningful difference—and reaffirmed our commitment to serving the community with compassion and purpose. “Where there is a need, there is a Lion.”

10/9/2025 - LCGTM continued with its monthly Hunger Relief project.

Families identified as experiencing poverty in the Rifle Range area were evaluated by the MPKK (Majlis Pengurusan Komuniti Kampong) Committee, and their names were recorded for eligibility to receive food boxes and bread. 

Foster Parents' Day @ Cheshire Home

On 6/9/2025, the LCGTM Lions participated the Foster Parents' Day at Cheshire Home. OC Tyson Yeap reported that the event was graced by Toh Puan, the Governor of Penang. All necessary protocols were followed, and shortly thereafter, the program commenced with a delightful performance by several residents of the Home, which has 29 males and 25 females. Our club sponsored Ms. Cheah Soo Ee, aged 34, who is diagnosed with Neurodivergent Congenital Autism. 

This has been the club's yearly project, where we sponsor one resident for RM360 per year. Attending the event were OC PP Tyson, PP Joyce Cheah, and PP Samantha Sam. GST Coordinator Lion Soon was also in attendance.

 

Another Life touched by the LC of George Town Mutiara

The Lions of LCGTM recently visited Madam Hoo Boy Heang, 71, at her medium-cost flat; a home left behind by her late husband, who once worked as a hawker stall assistant. Despite life’s challenges, Madam Hoo has remained resilient, supported by her daughter, an OKU who bravely works as a Grab driver to help sustain the household. In recent years, Madam Hoo has endured severe knee pain that has greatly diminished her mobility and independence. The discomfort has not only affected her physical health but also taken a toll on her emotional well-being.

Moved by her situation, LCGTM stepped in to assist. The club referred Madam Hoo to Pantai Hospital Penang for a medical examination, where her case was subsequently approved for surgery under the Live Renewed programme. Thanks to the generosity of Pantai Hospital Penang and the expertise of Orthopaedic Specialist Dr. Boon Huck Wee, Madam Hoo received the knee replacement she so urgently needed.

LCGTM extends its deepest gratitude to Pantai Hospital Penang and Dr. Boon Huck Wee for their unwavering support and kindness. Together, we have once again made a meaningful difference in the life of someone in need; restoring hope, dignity, and the possibility of renewed independence.

LCGTM’s Medical Aid Assistance

Since the launch of LCGTM’s Medical Aid Assistance Fund 2010, every month the club received applications from individuals seeking medical aid support. Each application was reviewed with care and compassion, ensuring that deserving applicants receive the help they need. Last month, the club received an application from Mdm Letchmy. On 1/9/2025, being a holiday,  most of the Lions were unable to join her, OC PP Lily Teoh personally visited the applicant's home to understand her situation better. PP Lily persevered and spent nearly three hours reviewing Mdm Letchmy’s financial details and asking thoughtful questions to assess her needs. This act of dedication reflects the spirit of service that defines our club—where every effort is made to ensure that no one is left behind in their time of need.

1/9/2025 LCGTM - Continues Its Mission to Support Needy Families

Thanks to the generosity of the Kuok Foundation, our club received 2 months of sponsorship for our Needy Family Project commencing August 2025. The club will provide groceries and basic necessities to help ease their daily burdens of three needy families. In addition to this essential support, we extended a thoughtful gesture to Mdm Tan Siew Poh by purchasing a stand fan to ease her discomfort and improve her living conditions.

This small act of kindness helped relieve some of her hardship and brought comfort to her daily life—reminding us that compassion, even in simple forms, can make a meaningful difference.

OC Joyce said that the three families need assistance as they are unable to stand on their own. Our commitment remains strong: to walk beside them with empathy, dignity, and hope.