Editorial note: As we turn the final page of the 2024–2025 Rotary year, we take a moment to reflect on the journey we've shared under the steady and spirited leadership of President Farouk. In the message that follows, Farouk offers his parting thoughts, not as a farewell, but a heartfelt handover from the role of president. His words capture both the spirit of service and the strong bonds that have marked his term.
President's Message
Farouk Merchant
President, 2024–2025
Rotary Club of Queenstown
As this Rotary year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on a journey filled with heart, humour, and the unmistakable spirit of RCQ. It’s hard to believe how quickly it all flew by — and yet, when I look back at all that we’ve experienced and achieved together, I feel nothing but gratitude.
One of the defining highlights of our year was the celebration of RCQ50, our Golden Jubilee. It wasn’t just a milestone — it was a moment of pride, honouring the legacy of those who came before us, and a celebration of the friendships and values that continue to bind us. It was also the year we reached an incredible achievement: crossing $1 million in all-time giving to The Rotary Foundation — a testament to the enduring generosity and commitment of our members.
Alongside these milestones, there was joy in the moments that brought us closer: our Go-Kart Fund Racer, Diwali Night, Christmas gathering, Lunar New Yearcelebrations, and the many informal Happy Hours that kept our bonds strong (and sometimes our group chats too lively!). Each of these reflected the warmth, diversity, and camaraderie that make RCQ so unique.
On the service front, we stayed true to our values — whether showing up at 5 a.m. for Willing Hearts, participating in beach cleanups, or bringing cheer to the residents of the Anglican Care Centre in Simei with our Oktoberfest celebration. These moments weren’t about grand gestures — they were about consistency, care, and being present.
Our reach also extended beyond Singapore. We strengthened international partnerships through Global Grants in Vietnam and continued our long-standing work in Yogyakarta, supporting the Bhakti Luhur project in areas like mushroom farming and physiotherapy training. A field trip there deepened our understanding and connection with the community we’ve long supported.
Through it all, I have been blessed to be surrounded by people who uplifted me at every turn. To our Board of Directors, thank you for your steadfast commitment and wisdom. And to the many mentors and friends beyond the board, your quiet guidance and encouragement meant more than I can express. This year’s successes were never the work of one — they were the result of many.
RCQ’s greatest strength isn’t just in what we do, but how we do it — with good humour, openness, and a genuine respect for differing views. With members from over 12 nationalities, our diversity is more than a hallmark — it’s the driving force behind our creativity, resilience, and unity.
As I hand over the reins, I do so with full confidence in our incoming President, Marcel Furrer. With his clarity, dedication, and calm leadership, RCQ is in excellent hands. I look forward to supporting Marcel and the new board — this time from the front row, not the podium.
Thank you, each and every one of you, for making this year such a meaningful and memorable one. It has been the honour of a lifetime to serve as your President.
Let’s continue to walk forward together — with purpose, with joy, and always striving to
Do Good, Better.
In fellowship and gratitude,
Farouk
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A Life of Service, One Good Deed at a Time
As we embrace the 2025–2026 Rotary International theme Unite for Good, John Wesley’s enduring call to service resonates more than ever. His simple yet profound lines remind us that goodness is not a grand gesture, but a daily choice—repeated, intentional, and far-reaching:
Do all the good you can by all the means you can in all the ways you can in all the places you can at all the times you can to all the people you can as long as ever you can.
Let this be our shared challenge—and our shared promise—as we step into the year ahead, together, to live the Rotary spirit with grace, with courage, and with constancy.
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Weekly Meetings
Monday June 2, 2025
The speaker at RCQ’s weekly meeting on June 2, 2025, was Michael Dubs, Swiss Master Watchmaker and founder of IHT Atelier in Singapore. IHT specialises in hands-on watchmaking workshops, advanced servicing, and FHH-accredited* training in haute horology. Michael also serves as an official trainer with the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH) Academy, a leading global authority in the field. His presentation, titled "Astronomy in Watchmaking Complications," offered fascinating insights into the celestial inspirations behind some of horology’s most intricate mechanisms.
(*)The HH Certification is an international certification of watchmaking knowledge awarded by the Foundation de la Haute Horlogerie.
Monday June 9, 2025
Monday June 16, 2025
The weekly meeting on June 16, 2025, was chaired by PP Denise. There was no formal speaker, and the evening was dedicated to a fellowship dinner.
Monday June 23, 2025
On June 23rd, our regular club meeting made way for a special Happy Hour Fellowship at the Tanglin Club, beginning at 7:00 p.m. The evening was also a joyful occasion to celebrate the birthday of our most senior and cherished member, PDG Chris Chen. A member since 1975, Chris remains an inspiring force and a pillar of RCQ: active, generous, and wholeheartedly engaged in our projects and causes. By his side, always, is his devoted wife Shirley, a familiar and beloved presence at every club event. Together, they embody the enduring spirit and fellowship of Rotary.
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Monday June 30, 2025
At the RCQ weekly meeting on Monday, 30 June, members gathered not only in fellowship but also to express heartfelt appreciation for President Farouk’s outstanding service during the Rotary year 2024–2025. His presidency was defined by dedication, warmth, and an inclusive spirit that, as PE Shikha eloquently put it, made him a confidant, mentor, and friend to each and every member.
Under his leadership, RCQ marked Diwali 2024 and the Club’s 50th anniversary in 2025 with memorable and meaningful celebrations. Community service projects were delivered with purpose and success, and thanks to President Farouk’s energy and enthusiasm, RCQ enjoyed unparalleled visibility throughout the year—leading to recognitions and awards at both district level and within Singapore.
The evening also featured an insightful address by PP Hannes on investment in the shipping industry—an area in which he is a seasoned expert. His presentation offered valuable perspectives and sparked lively discussion among members.
Adding to the celebratory spirit, the Club marked the birthday of PP Linda, a cherished member whose energy, humour, and culinary passion are a constant source of joy to all.
As the gavel passes, RCQ extends its warmest wishes to President Marcel. With confidence in his leadership and a shared commitment to service, we look forward to another remarkable Rotary year ahead.
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News and Announcements
Francesco Arezzo Named 2025–26 Rotary International President
Following the resignation of RI President-elect Mário César Martins de Camargo, the RI Board selected Francesco Arezzo of the Rotary Club of Ragusa, Italy, to serve as President for 2025–2026, effective 1 July.
A Rotarian for over 30 years, Arezzo is an orthodontist and active civic leader. His theme, Unite for Good, calls on members to bridge divides and foster unity through service. He is married to Anna Maria Criscione, and they have two children.
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RCQ Board Marks Transition at Final Meeting of 2024–2025 Rotary Year
The final RCQ Board meeting for the 2024–2025 Rotary year was held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. The session was dedicated to the handover process and an introductory meeting with the incoming Board members.
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Farewell to Rtn. Say Tiong Ng
RCQ bids a fond farewell to Rtn. Say Tiong Ng, who has been a valued member of our Club since 2017. Due to personal reasons and other commitments, Say Tiong has made the difficult decision to step away from RCQ.
During his time with RCQ, he served with diligence and integrity as Club Treasurer for two terms and formed many lasting friendships. Say Tiong was deeply appreciated by fellow members; his presence will be sincerely missed by all who had the pleasure of working alongside him and calling him a friend.
We thank him warmly for his service and fellowship, and we wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.
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RCQ Members Attended TUMCREATE’s 15th Anniversary
RCQ member, Stefan Klade, COO and Director of Research & Innovation, invited members to celebrate the 15th anniversary of TUMCREATE on June 18–19, 2025. Founded in 2010, by the National Research Foundation, TUMCREATE fosters research collaboration between the Technical university of
Munich and global partners, TUMCREATE fosters research collaboration between the Technical University of Munich and global partners, driving innovation in areas such as urban mobility, food and biomedical technology, and sustainable city solutions. TUMCREATE has produced over 1,000 publications and trained more than 70 PhD students, marking a decade and a half of science and international cooperation with significant impact. Rotarians Say Tiong, Axel, and Andy attended the event.
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Notice of Postponement
RCQ Trip to South Bavaria, Germany
The RCQ trip to South Bavaria, originally scheduled for September 6–13, 2025, and organized by PP PokZin, Rtn. Ulrich, and Ruth Guntram, has been postponed until further notice.
Please stay tuned for updates via the RCQ Announcements WhatsApp Group. Thank you for your kind understanding.
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SPECIAL COMMEMORATION SERIES
The Heart of the Rotary Club of Queenstown: Members’ Stories Through the Years
Celebrating 50 Years of Dedication
As we mark the 50th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Queenstown (RCQ), we are delighted to launch a special monthly feature celebrating the journeys of our incredible members.
Our members are the lifeblood of the club: their energy, dedication, and camaraderie make RCQ a vibrant, engaging, and welcoming community. They are the cornerstone of our club’s culture, the driving force behind our projects, and the inspiration that attracts new members. RCQ’s five decades of success reflect not only the steadfast commitment of our long-standing members but also the fresh ideas and perspectives brought by those who have joined us over the years. This seamless blend of tradition and innovation has shaped RCQ into the dynamic and diverse club we are proud of today.
Edward Wong is our sixth interviewee. Edward is a lifelong entrepreneur with a deep passion for serving women through beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. From building one of Asia’s largest fashion accessory networks to championing wellness standards across the region, Edward has navigated success and setbacks with quiet resilience and purpose. Beyond his professional life, he is a devoted husband and proud father of two daughters, always guided by a spirit of generosity and community.
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Faces of ROTARY CLUB OF QUEENSTOWN
RCQ Members share their stories
WONG, Edward
What inspired you to join the Rotary Club of Queenstown?
A good friend from Australia, Rotarian Neil Wood, invited me as a guest when he made up at the Rotary Club of Queenstown. Then-President Kesava encouraged me to visit again. I found him—and other RCQ members like PP Alan Yap and PP Yeo Tian Swee—warm and welcoming. I continued attending weekly meetings and eventually became a member in 1985.
Neil at my Installation Dinner in 1989
How has your personal journey with the club shaped your life over the years?
My journey in Rotary has been a double-edged sword.
I have learned and gained immensely through Rotary. By getting involved, I developed skills in managing voluntary organizations, organizing conferences and projects, and mentoring future leaders. These experiences laid the foundation for my success in managing and developing numerous trade associations and interest groups over the past 30 years.
Life has also taught me that while the ideals of Rotary International are noble, one must remain discerning—not everyone lives by the Four-Way Test.
That said, in over 40 years of Rotary service, I’ve had only two unpleasant experiences. On the other hand, I’ve made many lasting friendships and enjoyed meaningful fellowship with those who share common values and interests.
Can you share one of your most cherished memories from the early days of the club?
Rotary International lifted the “men only” restriction in 1989, during the 'Enjoy Rotary' year—when I was serving as President. I had the privilege of inducting the first female Rotarian in Singapore, an American expatriate, who, unfortunately, remained with the Rotary Club of Queenstown for less than a year.
Our second lady member, however, Rotarian Shirley Kwok, went on to become RCQ’s first female President.
Since then, women have contributed immensely to Rotary—both globally and in Singapore. In particular, our zesty Lady Members at RCQ have brought dedication, warmth, and a distinctive personal touch to their service, making a lasting impact on our club and its beneficiaries.
How did your family react when you first joined the Rotary Club? Have they supported your involvement over the years?
In the early years, my family gladly joined me at many Rotary functions—until an unfortunate incident involving my younger daughter, Elaine, in 1991.
Elaine, then 13, was born with a small hole in her ear canal and had developed a severe infection. My wife brought her to an ENT specialist who identified complications and warned that the infection had affected her nerves. Given the seriousness of the diagnosis, I sought a second opinion from a fellow Club President during the Enjoy Rotary year—who was an ENT specialist and a Rotarian from another Singapore club. I considered him a friend.
He dismissed the first doctor’s concerns, calling him inexperienced, as the younger doctor had once worked under him. He assured me that Elaine’s condition could be permanently resolved through a simple procedure. Sadly, I believed him. The surgery severed some of her facial nerves, and Elaine was left with paralysis on the left side of her face.
The aftermath brought immense pain and frustration to our family. My “Rotary friend” offered no solution—only the final bill at Gleneagles Hospital. Many Rotary Presidents and PDGs were aware of the situation, and there were differing opinions when I considered taking legal action for malpractice. In the end, I chose not to sue, to spare my already distressed wife and daughter further emotional strain. Financial compensation would not undo the damage. As a Buddhist, I believe in karma, and I hold on to the hope that my daughter will receive greater blessings in life to make up for her suffering.
Since then, my daughters have not attended any Rotary functions.
Did your family ever participate in any Rotary events or projects? How did that experience shape their view of the club? with your children or grandchildren?
My family was actively involved in many Rotary events and projects when I first joined the Rotary Club of Queenstown. They enjoyed the district conferences, family outings with fellow RCQ members, and participating in community service projects.
My wife Rosia, and daughters Sabrina and Elaine, at a Rotary dinner
with PDG Chris Chen and his family - alongside (if I’m not mistaken) RCQ’s first female Rotarian.
How did your professional life influence your work within the Rotary Club, and vice versa?
I’ve always been a ladies’ man—ha ha ha! Since 1975, my professional life has revolved around serving women, who make up about 80% of my clientele.
That same year, I started the ‘Scan’ Jewellery and Fashion Accessories business,which grew to become one of the largest retailers in Asia (outside Japan) in that segment. We operated over 200 outlets in department stores and duty-free shops, carrying brands such as Nina Ricci, Givenchy, Napier, Dorlan, 1928, Les Boutique Fantasie, Joan Collins, Elle, Kawaii, Castoni, and Stratton. Some of the older Queenstown Rotarians may remember our annual fashion jewellery shows—“The Magic of Accessories”—held at the Grand Hyatt Ballroom in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
However, the 1990s brought challenges. When the Japanese asset bubble burst, the lifestyle retail sector took a hard hit. Scan Jewellery suffered heavy losses with the collapse of Emporium Holdings (which operated about 100 stores across Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong), as well as many Japanese and regional department stores. Outstanding debts ran into the millions. At the same time, the rise of casual dressing made fashion jewellery less relevant.
In 1985, I had already diversified into the beauty and wellness sector, retailing skincare products alongside our accessories. In 1990, I partnered with two colleagues in Europe to launch Esthétique de Suisse (EdeS) - a Swiss beauty and spa brand - and introduced our products to salons and spas across Asia.
We opened the first EdeS Spa in 1992 at the Entertainment Building in Central, Hong Kong. After 25 years of managing and expanding the business, I stepped back from operational duties in 2016.
Did being part of the Rotary network open up any unexpected opportunities in your profession?
Not for my business, as I’ve never actively promoted it within Rotary. That was a conscious choice.
What personal passions or hobbies have you pursued outside of Rotary?
Rotary has trained me to lead and manage voluntary organizations, and I’ve applied those skills to serve the Beauty & Wellness industry through both Community and Vocational Service.
Since 1995, I’ve been actively involved in various industry associations, serving on the boards of the Day Spa Association (DSA), Association of Malaysian Spas (AMSPA), Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC), Asia-Pacific Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Association (APHCA), and the Specialists in Wellness Association Singapore (SWAS), where I have been President since 2016 and am currently serving my fifth term.
I am passionate about the Beauty and Wellness sector and have continually pursued training and professional development to expand my knowledge and better serve the industry. My involvement includes judging for the AsiaSpa Awards, Asia-Pacific Spa Awards, and World Spa and Wellness Awards; serving as Ambassador for Global Wellness Day; and contributing to regional standards development as a member of the ASEAN Spa Standards, Standards for Aquatic Facilities, and as Co-Chair of the Wellness Standards Committee under Enterprise Singapore’s Retail Services Standards.
I am also a Certified Member of the Institute of Management Consultants Singapore. Drawing on my MBA, management training, and decades of experience in the Lifestyle, Beauty, and Wellness sectors, I now provide advisory, consultancy, and training services to businesses. In addition, I enjoy sharing my knowledge as a programme developer and Associate Lecturer at Republic Polytechnic, guiding business owners, managers, and therapists in their professional growth.
Have you ever had the chance to combine your personal interests with Rotary projects? If so, how?
Yes, I have. I am currently serving on the Management Committee of the Foundation of Rotary Clubs in Singapore’s Active Aging Centre, where I’m able to align my personal interest in wellness and community service with Rotary’s mission.
What’s something you’ve always been passionate about, and how has Rotary allowed you to express or act on that passion?
All dimensions of Wellness which I am trying to share at the FRCS Active Aging Centre.
How did you balance your family, career, and Rotary commitments over the years?
I must say — “unbalanced.” I used to spend 6 to 8 months a year outside of Singapore.
Business operations were a very different ballgame during the era from 1975 to 1990, when I was running a multinational fashion accessories and jewellery retail business. There was no internet, mobile phone, laptop, e-commerce, or courier service.
I started doing international business through expensive long-distance phone calls, telexes, and later, facsimile. I had to fly around the globe to visit factories, showrooms, fashion shows, and exhibitions to view the latest trends, study designs, and place orders. I also had to maintain offices and warehouses in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Hong Kong, and Taipei to service the local markets.
To save on hotel expenses, I maintained apartments in cities I visited frequently — such as Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou - where I would stay up to two weeks each visit. These cities became my second homes for decades.
Was there ever a time when you considered stepping back from Rotary, and what made you stay?
I wanted to resign about 10 years ago because I could not meet the attendance requirement, but PP Jack persuaded me to stay and contribute in other ways.
What were the most significant challenges the club faced during its inception, and how were they overcome?
Rotary was very formal and hierarchical in the 1980s.
Today, RCQ feels like an extended family — warm and welcoming to new members. There are also many interest groups and activities that help engage members and forge lasting relationships. Credit must go to the many Presidents and Past Presidents who were willing to adapt with the times, creating and supporting new initiatives to embrace younger members and encourage participation.
I’ve noticed that many of our newer members are creative, enthusiastic, and highly motivated. They will make great Presidents and future leaders of RCQ.
How has the Rotary Club evolved in its mission, membership, and activities over the past 50 years?
The Rotary movement has become more diversified and comprehensive in its missions and programmes. It has also grown more sophisticated in its structure and the training of officers compared to the 1980s and 1990s.
RCQ has maintained and even expanded its international membership. We have accumulated reserves, which have been put to good use in both local and international projects. Socializing has become an important part of RCQ membership, with many members regularly participating in activities beyond the weekly meetings - such as the ‘Social’, ‘Breakfast’, ‘Happy Hour’, ‘Gourmand’, and ‘Canto’ groups.
There are also frequent travels: visits to project sites, sister clubs, regional conferences, and other places of interest. Embracing the diverse cultures of our members has become a unique hallmark of RCQ. Members and their families come together to celebrate cultural festivities, special occasions, and personal milestones - often with the allure of sensational costumes, delicious food, and high spirits.
Are there any notable milestones or events in the club’s history that you feel particularly proud of?
Yes! I’m especially proud that RCQ has consistently managed to attract new and younger members over the years. The club has inspired many of them to take an active role and step into leadership positions. Remarkably, we have not had to recycle a single President in the last 35 years.
Can you highlight a project or initiative that you feel had the most impact on the community?
RCQ has undertaken numerous impactful projects that have benefited communities both in Singapore and abroad. Our international initiatives have improved lives by addressing real needs and enhancing quality of life in various regions.
That said, I personally cherish our Oktoberfest and Nurses Day projects. Their annual recurrence and the joy they bring make them especially meaningful. We’ve consistently brought the festive spirit of Oktoberfest to our local beneficiaries and brightened nurses’ days with flowers in hospitals. These activities have fostered bonding and created heartwarming moments for our members and the community alike.
How has the club’s approach to serving the community changed over time?
RCQ has always been hands-on, but over time, our reach has expanded significantly. We now run more projects and extend our service further - with impactful initiatives in countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and China.
What do you think sets the Rotary Club of Queenstown apart from other service organizations?
RCQ is a truly dynamic and international organization, with members from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds. While many Rotary clubs foster the sharing of culture, life, and professional experiences, what sets RCQ apart is the intensity and breadth of its activities. We are far from the stereotype of a traditional service club - RCQ is truly unique.
What values of Rotary do you think have stood the test of time?
For RCQ, the enduring values are sustainability, leadership renewal, and a steadfast commitment to long-term projects.
How do you see the legacy of the club being carried forward by the younger generationof members?
Continuity requires deliberate planning and action. We must consistently recruit new members and encourage their participation. It’s vital to involve them across different activities, and - most importantly - to understand their professional and family commitments, their aspirations, and their needs. Only then can we truly motivate them to make RCQ a meaningful part of their lives.
Looking back at your journey with RCQ, what advice would you give to your younger self to enhance that experience?
We all pass through different stages in life - from career or business development, to raising a family, giving back to society, and eventually, active ageing.
While I may not be the best example of a typical Rotarian, Rotary has always been close to my heart - from the Four-Way Test to Community, Vocational, and Youth Service. I contribute to RCQ whenever I can, but more importantly, I try to uphold Rotary’s mission through my commitment to community, vocation, and education for the next generation.
To young Rotarians, my advice is: participate, observe, and learn about Rotary. Live its values in your daily life, and take joy in the impact you make on others. That, in itself, is the essence of Rotary.
What advice would you give to new members looking to make a lasting impact in the Rotary Club?
Rotary, like any other organisation or community, requires involvement - you must get involved to know, and to be known. Your mentor is there to guide you and introduce you to the club and its members. Don’t hesitate to seek their support. If your mentor is unavailable, reach out to an active member who can help you find your footing.
As a new member, it's important that others get to know you in order to include you in activities. Take the first step - volunteer. It won’t be long before the club begins to call on you and involve you in meaningful ways.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering joining the Rotary movement, what would it be?
Rotary is a movement with bold ambitions - its mission is to bring together capable individuals to support and uplift communities, advance professional and vocational standards, improve health and longevity, and provide aid in times of crisis.
If you're considering joining, know that Rotary is a lifelong commitment to service. Its long-term goals and global efforts span from promoting peace, saving lives, and fighting disease, to protecting the environment, supporting education, and growing local economies. It is a meaningful way to make your life count - not only for yourself, but for others.■
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Moments of Fellowship, Re-connection, and cultural immersion
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A Journey into the Hidden Soul of Japan
May 29 - June 8, 2025
From the moment we left Singapore to the quiet return ten days later, our journey through Japan’s Mie Prefecture offered more than a change of scenery - it was a rare invitation into a hidden dimension of Japan, one rarely accessible to foreign travellers.
Graciously hosted by Rtn Maiko, the tour was a masterfully curated experience that brought us face to face with places, people, and practices shaped by centuries of tradition, spiritual depth, and quiet resilience. It was not only a tour, but a passage -into natural sanctuaries, ancestral rituals, endangered crafts, and the beating heart of a people whose sense of dignity is woven into even the simplest tasks.
Our days unfolded through sacred shrines and moss-laced pilgrimage trails, dramatic coastlines and terraced rice fields, pearl farms and fishing villages, natural parks and markets. We explored the spiritual legacy of the Kumano Kodo, stood in reverence at Nachi Taisha and the Ise Grand Shrines, and meandered through the bustling alleys of Okage Yokocho.
In Minami Ise, we met pearl farmers whose age-old methods are today threatened by climate change and sea pollution. The cultivation of pearls, once a harmonious dialogue between nature and human craft, is now under growing threat - particularly in the waters surrounding Japan. Rising sea temperatures linked to global warming disrupt the delicate marine ecosystems that sustain the oysters, weakening their immune systems and reducing the success of pearl formation. At the same time, pollution - from agricultural runoff to industrial waste - contaminates coastal waters, altering their chemical balance and introducing harmful bacteria and microplastics. These environmental stresses have led to higher mortality rates among oysters and diminished the quality of pearls, placing immense pressure on a tradition that has been perfected over generations. For Japan’s pearl farmers, the challenge is not only to preserve a cherished cultural heritage but to navigate an increasingly fragile natural.
A visit to Pearl FALCO, accompanied by Maiko’s thoughtful tutorial, offered us a deeper appreciation of the delicate interplay between nature and human craftsmanship that gives rise to each luminous pearl - a quiet testament to patience, precision, and harmony with the environment.
One of the most poignant moments came in a rustic hut by the sea, where we dined with the Ama, Japan’s legendary female free divers. Our host, a spirited 93-year-old diver, grilled seafood over open fire alongside her lifelong peers, offering us not just a meal but a rare glimpse into a way of life - stoic, humble, and vanishing. Their laughter, their pride, their resilience left an imprint that no photograph could capture.
The culinary dimension of our journey was no less extraordinary. We dined in a range of settings-from humble coastal huts to elegant clubs and garden - view restaurants, each telling a different story of place and tradition. One unforgettable evening was spent at TWLV, an exclusive club where the experience transcended fine dining. Tea was prepared and served by a tea farmer specially invited for the occasion; dinner was crafted by a celebrated chef, flown in at the owner’s request. The atmosphere was pure theatre-refined, immersive, exquisitely paced, the lines between art, ritual, and nourishment were blurred.
Another highlight was lunch at Kaizu in Matsusaka, where we were treated to the region’s famed Matsusaka beef, known for its unparalleled tenderness and marbling. Served in a setting framed by a serene Japanese garden, the meal was a study in restraint and refinement - luxury without excess, beauty without pretence.
Whether in unassuming family-run eateries or rarefied culinary temples, every dish was a revelation. Each meal was a culinary poem - rich in flavour,soul, and storytelling. In Japan, we were reminded, nourishment is not just about
food, but about presence, reverence, and the quiet celebration of beauty.
Yet beyond the sites and the meals, it was the people who left the deepest imprint: hardworking, gentle, resilient, and profoundly respectful - toward nature, toward others, and toward themselves. Their modesty was striking. In a country that has risen from profound devastation to global acclaim, there was no boastfulness - only quiet pride, grace in conduct, and an instinctive pursuit of excellence. Beauty was present everywhere, not only in gardens and temples, but in gestures, in silence, in the artful folding of a napkin or the sincere bow of gratitude.
Last but not least, another rewarding aspect of our journey to Japan was the fellowship shared along the way. Getting to know each travel companion in a different context-outside the usual rhythms of daily life - was both enriching and heartwarming. The camaraderie, conversations, and quiet moments alike made the experience all the more meaningful. It was a joy to travel not just through Japan, but together.
The entire journey nurtured our eyes, our souls, and our deeper appreciation of a people who have rebuilt their lives and their nation with quiet strength and dignity. From the ashes of unimaginable hardship, they have shaped a society anchored in harmony, humility, and a profound reverence for life in all its forms.
We returned to our point of departure - Singapore - but not quite as the same people. We came back softened, stirred, and quietly inspired by a land where the sacred and the simple walk hand in hand.
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PP PokZin, with his daughter Wanjun and son-in-law Dani, enjoying a visit to Lake Como (Italy) - the homeland of fellow Rotarian Francesco.
RCQ members shared a joyful meal in celebration of Vietnam Food Day, attended
i Light Singapore 2025 at Marina Bay, and continued the festivities at a local restaurant on June 12, 2025.
A quiet moment of fellowship over coffee, where good conversations brew, June 16, 2025.
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A Wedding, A Journey, A Celebration: RCQ in Panchgani
RCQ members travelled to Panchgani, India, to join President Farouk in celebrating the wedding of his brother, Hamza, to Ayesha, held on June 20–21, 2025. It was a joyous occasion shared in warm fellowship and cultural splendor.
Hamza and Ayesha, radiant in union and
tradition, on the eve of their wedding day in Panchgani
Dressed in vibrant splendour, RCQ members gathered to join President Farouk in celebrating the wedding of Hamza and Ayesha-a radiant couple whose joy lit up the evening. A celebration rich with colour, culture, and camaraderie, this was an unforgettable occasion graced with joy and regal splendour.
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Bukit Timah Saddle Club, Countryside experience, Saturday, June 28, 2025
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Foundation Committee handover, Sunday, June 29, 2025
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Upcoming Events
July 2025
Date: Saturday, July 5, 2025
Event: Rotary Club of Kuching Central installation
RCQ is organizing a trip to Kutching, Malaysia, for RCKC installation and visit water tank project - July 3-6, 2025 (Please follow on the RCQ Announcements WhatsApp Group)
40th Installation of RC Kuching Central where Rtn Pauline Pui will be installed as President, along with her Board of Directors for 2025-26, while the achievements of 2024-25 under the leadership of President Roland Phang will be celebrated.
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Date: Saturday 5 July 2025 Venue: Sarawak Chamber, Puteri Wing of Riverside Majestic Hotel
Time: 6.30pm Theme: Black, White & Gold (formal)
RSVP your attendance by May 5, 2025 viatinyurl.com/rckc40th or the QR code shown in invitation card.
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Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025
Event: 52nd Rotary Club of Queenstown installation
Time: 06:30 PM onwards
Venue: The British Club, Elizabeth Suite
73 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289761
Attire: Black Tie
Guest of Honour: Dr. Shahul Hameed, District Governor
Price: $130/person
Payment to be made to: UEN S75SS0045F
Ref: 52nd Installation Dinner or Ad
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Date: Sunday, July 13, 2025
Event: BBQ Dinner hosted by Willing Hearts
Time: 03:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Venue: No 1 Lorong J, Telok Kurau, Singapore 425792
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June 2026
Date:13-17 June 2026
Event: 2026 Rotary International Convention
Venue: Taipei, Taiwan
Super Early Bird Registration Rates will be available during the 2025 Calgary Convention 21-25 June 2025.
More information will be shared at a later date. Join the 2026 Taipei Convention Interest Group to standby for more information.
Errata & Clarifications
Despite our best efforts, errors occasionally find their way into the newsletter. We regret the oversight and thank you for your understanding.
In our previous issue, Dr. Shahul Hameed, District Governor (D3310), was incorrectly referred to as Director General. Our sincere apologies for the oversight.
