Diwali, the festival of lights celebrated across South Asia and beyond marks the first of a trio of luminous celebrations, followed by Christmas and the Lantern Festival. Though rooted in different traditions, these festivals all honour the power of light, hope, and community. Each invites us to gather with loved ones, reflect on the past, and look ahead with joy and purpose.
In our multicultural RCQ community, such traditions are not only celebrated but embraced as bridges, linking cultures, experiences, and shared values.They remind us of what truly connects us: not only the joy of celebration, but also our shared commitment to compassion and service.
Rooted in ancient tradition yet timeless in meaning, Diwali honours the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and the joy of coming together in community.
The light of a diya is more than a flame; it is a metaphor for guidance, clarity, and compassion. When we light that small lamp, we take part in something larger than ourselves: a collective act of hope, unity, and renewal.
These are the very principles that underlie Rotary’s enduring motto: “Service Above Self.” At its heart, Rotary calls us to serve with humility, to uplift others, and to help build a brighter world. Just as a single candle can light countless others without losing its glow, Rotarians are called to be sources of light: offering time, energy, and kindness to improve the lives of others.
This Diwali, may the lights we kindle remind us that the desire to build a better, more compassionate world is universal. And in Rotary, we have both the opportunity and the responsibility to help make that light shine.
Wishing you a season filled with joy, purpose, and shared light.
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Monday October 6, 2025
There was no regular meeting on October 6 as members joined the Oktoberfest celebration at the Anglican Care Centre (Simei). The lively event, filled with music, laughter, and shared cheer, reflected Rotary’s spirit of fellowship beyond the clubroom.
The full account of this heart-warming celebration is featured under “Moments of Service, Fellowship and Friendship” in this newsletter.
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Monday October 13, 2025
The meeting was presided over by President Marcel. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Arch Klumph Society pin to PDG Chris Chen in recognition of his outstanding generosity, and honouring his enduring commitment to Rotary’s mission.
Rtn Andy gave members an insightful overview of the Rotary Foundation, explaining how its role as Rotary’s charitable arm transforms contributions into sustainable change through Global Grants. His talk offered valuable insights into how clubs like ours can turn ideas into impactful projects.
Rtn Axel followed with heartening updates from the Bhakti Luhur Orphanage in Yogyakarta, where our support can bring comfort and hope to vulnerable children. During his talk, Axel read a moving letter from one of the residents, expressing her gratitude to RCQ members and sharing her simple wish for a new wheelchair - a wish that Axel and his spouse Lakshmi lovingly fulfilled. The letter was a gentle reminder of the profound impact each of us can have. Even a single gesture, born of empathy and kindness, can restore dignity, spark joy, and transform a life. Together, our small acts weave into a larger fabric of compassion that truly enhances the quality of life for others.
The evening concluded with Honorary MemberMP Vikram Nair engaging account of the responsibilities of Members of Parliament, both toward their constituents and within Parliament. His perspective offered members a deeper appreciation of public service in all its forms.
To see more photos of this event, please clickhere.
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Monday October 20, 2025
There was no regular meeting on Monday, October 20, 2025. This was replaced by Sunday, October 19 Diwali Celebration Reunion of members.
For the full account of this joyful celebration, please see “Moments of Service, Fellowship and Friendship” in this newsletter.
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Monday October 27, 2025
RCQ’s weekly meeting on October 27 was a full house, buzzing with energy. Six Rotaractors - Esther, Kaelyn, Shri, Hrishi (whose father and late grandfather were both Rotarians), and Nicholas - joined us, giving members a chance to connect with them more personally. Esther, President of the Singapore Institute of Technology’s Rotaract Club and formerly from Singapore Polytechnic, shared about RAYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) and how it shaped both her community and her own growth. The evening was further enlivened by three visiting Rotarians from Seoul, Sweden, and Hrishi’s father from India (Coimbatore), and Mrs. Sandra Berrick, adding a global touch to our fellowship.
The speaker of the evening was Ms. Tae Tsuchida, who spoke on “Parenting, Re-parenting: How to Nurture Your Child — and Your Own Inner Child — for a Thriving Life”. Through personal stories and practical reflections, she invited us to look at the ways our early experiences shape how we relate, care, and respond - both as parents and as individuals. Her talk offered a gentle reminder that growth is lifelong: we guide children
not only by teaching them, but also by tending to the parts of ourselves that still seek understanding, compassion, and safety. It was an insightful exploration of human nature, emotional resilience, and the quiet strength of kindness in family life.
During Diwali Monday, Rtn. Axel and Laksmi visited the Bhakti Luhur Orphanage in Yogyakarta and brought back some heartening updates.
The oyster mushroom cultivation project, supported by RCQ, is thriving. This season’s harvest has broken all previous records, yielding 25 to 40 kilograms of mushrooms daily. Around half of the harvest is sold fresh to local restaurants, while the other half is processed into mushroom crackers.
The sisters at the orphanage also expressed their joy over an abundant mango andjackfruit season, adding to this year’s bounty.
During the visit, Laksmi presented Maria (Ayu) with a new wheelchair, a touching gesture that was warmly received.
These achievements, according to Rtn. Axel, stand as "wonderful fruits of RCQ’s shared commitment and generosity". He extended his heartfelt thanks to all members and friends who contributed and helped make this project such a success.
Turning Vision into Reality: RCQ’s Next Global Grant Projects
On Monday, October 13, Rtn. Andy gave an insightful presentation on the mission of The Rotary Foundation in alleviating poverty and improving health, education, and the environment. He illustrated how Global Grant–funded projects have transformed lives around the world, citing as examples the establishment of 120 libraries in elementary schools across Vietnam, 100 knee replacement surgeries in India, and a chicken-raising initiative benefitting 150 families.
Rtn. Andy also highlighted that RCQ holds significant credit with District 3310 and Rotary International, thanks to members’ cumulative giving of USD 1 million to the Foundation - positioning the Club well for future Global Grant projects.
He encouraged members who have ideas for international service projects, or friends in other Rotary Clubs with such initiatives, to reach out to the International Projects Sub-Committee or consider joining it.
The following projects were identified as currently in need of funding:
Each of these initiatives has the power to transform lives - and with the collective spirit and generosity of RCQ members, they can move from vision to reality. Every dollar counts.
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Rotaractor Esther Honoured with National Youth Achievement Award
Esther (Chong Wei Qi), currently the President of the Singapore Institute of Technology's Rotaract Club, andPast President of the Rotaract Club of SingaporePolytechnic, has been awarded the GoldLevel National Youth Achievement Award by the National Youth Achievement Award Council.
The award celebrates, among others, the pursuit of excellence through community service
and leadership initiatives that make a tangible difference in society. Esther’s dedication, perseverance, and passion for service exemplify the very spirit of Rotary and Rotaract.
RCQ extends its warmest congratulations to Esther, whose achievement inspires all young leaders committed to creating positive change.
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Closing the Year Together in Fellowship
The RCQ Christmas Dinner will be held on Monday, December 15, marking the highlight of our festive season.
The last regular meeting of 2025 will follow on Monday, December 22, as we come together one last time this year in fellowship and gratitude. There will be no regular meeting on Monday, December 29.
Regular meetings will resume on Monday, January 5, 2026, as we begin another year of service, friendship, and Rotary spirit.
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Saturday, October 4, 2025
On Saturday, October 4, RCQ members visited the social enterprise Dignity Kitchen Singapore, a hawker training school that empowers differently-abled people through culinary training - an inspiring model of dignity in action. They enjoyed a personal tour led by Koh Choon Seng, the founder of the enterprise; and tried their very own hawker food served tapas style.
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Monday, October 6, 2025
Bridging Generations with Laughter, Play and Love: Fellowship in Full Swing
The much-awaited Oktoberfest celebration at the Anglican Care Centre (Simei) took place on October 6. It was a joyful evening of inter-generational and intercultural mingling, filled with laughter, music, and cheerful camaraderie.
RCQ members were present with their families, helping to prepare the venue, greeting residents, and making it a truly special time for all involved. The hall came alive with lively tunes, colourful decorations, and the irresistible aroma of hearty food.
A special mention goes to Rtn Axel and Rtn Stefan who, radiating energy, humour, and good cheer, kept the crowd entertained throughout the evening.
Our Rotaractors were an additional source of joy and inspiration, bringing along their youthful energy, fresh ideas, and vibrant spirit. Their cheerful presence added sparkle to the night and bridged generations in true Rotary fashion.
The same goes for RCQ members who brought along their young children and grandchildren - a most welcome initiative that infused the evening with warmth, spontaneity, and the natural spirit of community that Rotary so beautifully embodies. And what a beautiful way to instill in the young a sense of humanity, compassion, and the joy of giving.
For more photos of this event, please click here. _________________________________
Wedensday, October 8, 2025
PDG Chris Chen and Mrs. Chen attended the 30th Anniversary Celebration of the Rotary Club of Bukit Timah, joining fellow Rotarians in commemorating three decades of service, fellowship, and community impact. The evening was marked by warm camaraderie and shared pride in Rotary’s enduring legacy.
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Saturday, October 11, 2025
An Afternoon Dedicated to Pearls
An elegant afternoon was hosted at Pearl Falco by Rtn. Miko, celebrating the timeless beauty and symbolism of pearls. On this occasion, PP Linda gave an insightful talk on the fascinating connection between pearls and the dragon in Singapore’s cultural heritage, weaving history, artistry, and tradition into a memorable exchange.
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Saturday, October 18, 2025
A warm Singapore meeting with PP Barbara and PP Marina of RC Bali Kuta, who inspired and facilitated RCQ’s flood relief project providing gas stoves to 25 families in Bali. _________________________________
Sunday, October 19, 2025
Diwali Celebration – A Night of Colour, Light and Community
RCQ gathered on Sunday, October 19, to celebrate Diwali in a joyful and colourful evening filled with fellowship, laughter and cultural appreciation. Members arrived dressed in vibrant hues of red, pink, blue and green, adorned with garlands and radiant smiles that set the tone for a festive night.
The celebration offered not only a beautiful nod to the rich Indian heritage woven into Singapore’s cultural tapestry, but also a moment to simply enjoy being together sharing food, stories, and light-hearted fun. A highlight of the evening was the mystery murder play, delightfully written by Hamzeh Merchant and brought to life by RCQ members, showcasing our club’s spirit of creativity and playfulness.
Our heartfelt thanks go to IPP Farouk and his family for their thoughtful planning, warm hospitality, and the care they put into making this evening both meaningful and memorable.
Below are some captured moments from this special celebration.
Fellowship meeting on the occasion of the
opening of the German Film Festival in Singapore.
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Saturday, October 25, 2025
Fellowship and discovery along the Singapore River guided by PP Linda. A stroll and river cruise revealing how design and planning powered Singapore's rise.
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Sunday, October 26, 2025
RCQ members supporting FRCS Concert _________________________________
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Fellowship over breakfast - Rtn Axel meets PP Sabrina in Bagkok
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Date: Oct 31 - Nov 2, 2025
Event: D3310 - 35th Pan Borneo Conference
Venue: Kuching For more information about this event, please click here.
Click here to discover more about the history of the Pan Borneo Interclub Meet.
