Area W3 District 51 Toastmasters

Area W3 Council Meeting + Earth Day Celebration

2013-05-14T18:00:00.003+08:00

Area W3 is well known of its strong camaraderie between all the members. We like to have FUN and always have inter-club events for fellowship!

On 20 April, the club officers of Area W3 clubs gathered and had a fruitful council meeting, followed by the Earth Day celebration. All the club officers were participating in the exciting games during the celebration.

To appreciate the hard work of the fellow club officers in the past 10 months, we have prepared some gifts to the lucky club officers.

Lucky draw winners go to...

Area W3 ISTT Contests 2013

2013-03-26T12:48:00.001+08:00

“Ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to announce to you the champion for the Area W3
International Speech Contest goes to LEE CHEN CHOON from Friendship Toastmasters Club.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to announce to you the champion for the Area W3 Table
Topic Speech Contest goes to GRACE LOH from KPMG Toastmasters Club.”

International Speech Contest Chair Hitomi Ng and Table Topic Contest Chair Heng Jing Yi
announced the results successively after the Chief Judge Vincent Soon handed over the results to
the two lovely ladies.

The birth of the Area W3 champions has just emerged on last Saturday 23 March. Lee Chen
Choon was the champion of the International Speech Contest while Grace Loh was the
champion of Table Topic Contest. Congratulations, bravo and kudos to both of them!

With thunderous applause and cheerful flapping from the audience, the winners marched
jubilantly to the stage one after another to receive the award from the hands of the friendly Area W3 Governor Chor Chee Hoe.

The contestants of International Speech Contest were Laila from IBM Toastmasters, Lee
Shoon Hoe from Exact ADC, Grace Loh from KPMG and lastly Lee Chen Choon from Friendship
toastmasters club.

Laila from IBM shared with the audience about the pros and cons of using Facebook. She urged
the audience to use the Facebook wisely as the way of using Facebook reflects our maturity as
well as our intelligence. She warned us that the improper usage of Facebook would draw not
only yourself but your family and friends become vulnerable to the baddie.

The second contestant Lee Shoon Hoe spoke on the topic ‘Walk with Ah Thor’. Ah Thor
was a limp old man with haunch back. However he gained the respects and like from the
neighborhoods despite his physical challenge by his positive attitude towards life. The grass is
always greener at the other side. She urged the audience do not compare and envy what other
have, but treasure what you already have and be good to people who love you and around you.

The third speaker was Grace Loh from KPMG toastmasters. She told the audience that she was
being criticized as the troublesome by her family members just because of her force to adjust
her family members’ lifestyle. Good food is not fast, Fast food is not good. In the process of
persuading her family members to regularly, consistently and persistently practice a good and
balance lifestyle which was always troublesome, cumbersome and tiresome; She learnt to enjoy
and focus on the present instead, not to worry too much about the future. Everyone knows the
best way to live a balance and healthier life; they know which one suits them the best.

And lastly the Champion Lee Chen Choon, he shared with the audience about finding the meaning
in his life. He started to contemplate the meaning of life seriously when Uncle Lim who
supported him, changed him into a better person passed away. All this while he neglected his
loved one due to busy works. Losing Uncle Lim taught him about the time he missed with his
family and friends. Life is short. He urged the audience to join him in the race of getting to the
finishing line with no regrets. What a moving, uplifting and sensational message he sent!

In the Table Topic Contest, the table topic selected by the Chief Judge was ‘Apart from
swimming, what is your favorite thing to do in the swimming pool.’ This indeed the funniest
table topic I have ever heard. The audience laughed out laugh when the table topic was recited
by the contest chair. Champion Grace Loh gracefully spoke to the audience that she exercised
Aquarobics in the swimming pool besides swimming. Aquarobics exercise is as good and
effective as swimming. She invited the audience to join her for her next aquarobics session.
This was indeed an interesting and new idea of activity to do in the swimming pool besides
swimming. She also mentioned about family bonding time and asked the audience to explore
themselves in order to know more.

1st runner up Lee Chen Choon told the audience that life is like a swimming pool. Learning of
swimming is the same as learning public speaking and leadership in toastmasters. He described
that the journey of learning swimming were like the mentor and mentee relationship in
toastmasters. You master the swimming skills and in return, you help others in becoming a good
and skillful swimmer.

Here are the results of the International Speech Contest
Champion: Lee Chen Choon
1st runner up: Grace Loh

Here are the results of the Table Topic Contest.
Champion: Grace Loh
1st runner up: Lee Chen Choon

We are elated and proud to see the birth of the winners. Toastmasters has magnificently
transformed and revolutionized its members to become better communicators and leaders. We
wish the two of them all the best in the upcoming Division W International Speech and Table
Topic Contests on 27 April 2013 in Segi University College, Kota Damansara.

Contributed by,
Daphne Au
Area W3 Webmaster

Area W3 Council Meeting Minutes

2013-02-06T07:45:00.000+08:00

AREA W3 2012/2013

Minutes of the 1st Area Council Meeting

Date : 26 December 2012 (Wednesday)

Time : 7:00pm – 9:10pm

Venue : Level 10, KPMG KL Tower

Attendees:

IBM Malaysia TMC	Friendship TMC	KPMG TMC	Exact TMC
Kenny Chan, TM Tan Tyng Yng, TM Wendy Yap, TM	Grace Loh, ACB, ALB Jowy Chong, CC	Alexandra Lau, CC Timothy Nakayama, ACG Daphne Au, CC Chor Chee Hoe, CC, ALB Sylvia Tan, CC	Teo Soo Loon, ACB, CL

Area Governor Welcome Address

Introduction of Area Council Committees

Area W3 Governor, Chor Chee Hoe
Assistant Area W3 Governor Education & Training, Timothy Nakayama
Webmaster, Daphne Au
Secretary, Wendy Yap

Review and Reflection

TLI2: Club Officers Training

Friendships Toastmasters Club (TMC) Excos who attended the Division W TLI 2 shared their experience and what they have learned from the event. This year’s TLI2 included Planning session and Summary session which the Area Governor provides advice to solve issues that faced by the clubs. Members from IBM Malaysia TMC will attend the TLI2 on 12 Jan 2013.

DCP Achievement

Feedback from Alexandra that Area W3 has given sufficient recognition and overall AG has done a good job in sharing of information among the Area. Timothy added that prize giving session during TLI2 took up too much time and many members leave during this session. At the moment, Friendships TMC has achieved 5 out of 10 Distinguished Club Points (DCP), KPMG TMC has achieved 4 out of 10 DCP, while IBM Malaysia TMC has not achieve any point yet.

Report and Update

Area W3 Humorous Speech & Evaluation Contests

Prizes and certificated were sponsored, food was served in potluck basis, and no door fee was collected. As for this year, it was suggested to draft out a budget, then the expenses will be shared among the clubs. Money will be collected from respective clubs prior to the contest. This suggestion has been agreed by all the attendees.

New Club in Area W3

Hasil TMC is expecting to establish a new club in Cyberjaya. Hence, there will be 6 clubs under Area W3.

Financial Matters

Currently there is no appointed Treasurer in Area W3 Council Committees. A suggestion was raised, where a treasurer will be appointed by the committees or the event organizer for each event or project. This suggestion has been agreed by all the attendees.

Division W Recognition Program

Award recognition handout was distributed to the floor. Pins will be awarded to clubs with full attendance of TLI 1 & 2 and members who have achieved any educational award like Competent Communicator (CC) and Competent Leadership (CL).

District Recognition Program

Email is received from Division Governor regarding the Seize the Moment campaign. Chee Hoe will continue to circulate information about upcoming District Recognition Program.

Planning and Strategizing

Area W3 International Speech and Table Topics Contests

Tentatively will be held on 23 March 2013 at 2pm, expecting around 50 attendees. IBM TMC offers to sponsor the venue, and no lunch will be provided.
Organizing Chair – Alexandra Lau, Friendships TMC
Table Topic Contest Chair – non-Area W3 member
International Speech Contest Chair – KPMG or IBM Malaysia TMC
Assistant Sergeant at Arms 1 – IBM Malaysia TMC
Assistant Sergeant at Arms 2 – KPMG TMC
Ballot Counter 1 – Exact TMC
Ballot Counter 2 – Friendships TMC
Ballot Counter 3 – non-Area W3 member
Time Keeper 1 – Exact TMC
Time Keeper 2 – non-Area W3 member

Area W3 Blog Matters

The blog is meant for all Area W3 clubs and it is seldom updated. Hence, all Areas W3 clubs are requested to contribute updates on clubs events. The blog web address is www.mytmarea.blogspot.com

Awards and Recognition

It is not necessary to have recognition from Area level since there is recognition given at Division level. However, special Toastmasters International pins will be awarded to champions of Area W3 International Speech and Table Topics Contests as encouragement.

Area W3 Govenor Election

Election of Area W3 Governor for the term 2013/2014

AG read out the rules and regulation of the election. Nominees are Tan Tyng Yng nominated by Wendy Yap and Timothy Nakayama nominated by Alexandra Lau. Teo Soo Loon proposed for the nomination to close and was seconded by Grace Loh.
Both Timothy and Tyng Yng gave their speeches and answered questions from the floor. One representative from each club witnessed the ballot counting performed by the AG. Tan Tyng Yng is elected as Area W3 Governor for the term 2013/2014 effective from 1 July 2013.

Other Matters

Division W Workshop : Be The Speaker You Can Be

The workshop will be held on 19 January 2013, Saturday in University Malaya, conducted by Palaniappa Subramaniam, ACS CL and LeAnn Tang, DTM. For every 5 tickets purchased will get 50% discount.

Friendships TMC has 10% discount on any purchase via TI website and this benefit is shared with other Area W3 clubs.

Announcement

KPMG TMC will have their club ISTT Contests on 22 Feb 2013.
Friendship TMC will have their club ISTT Contests on 22 Jan 2013, 6:30 pm, in Bukit Kiara.
IBM TMC will have their club ISTT Contests on 19 Feb 2013, 6:30pm in IBM Plaza.

Wendy Yap, Area W3 Secretary

Seize the Moment 3 Campaign

2013-02-06T07:34:00.002+08:00

The Seize the Moment 3 Campaign has started and will last from 11th January 2013 – 31st March 2013.

Many interesting awards and prizes await you so check out the flyers below for more details!

Let's Seize the Moment - Go For It!

Nominations for District Officers for Term 2013-2104

2013-02-06T07:29:00.000+08:00

Dear Fellow Toastmasters in District 51,

As we usher in the new year, it is also time for the District to call

nominations for members to serve District 51 for the term 2013 - 2014.

The term of service starts from 1st July 2013 and ends on 30th June 2014.

Nominations are sought for the following offices:

1) District Governor

2) Lieutenant Governor of Education & Training

3) Lieutenant Governor of Marketing

4) Division Governors for Divisions A, B, C, E,G, H, K, M, N, P, Q, S and W

Salient points to note:

Ensure your nominee meets the minimum qualification requirements prior to submitting the nomination.

Complete the attached Officer Nomination Form and Officer Agreement Release Form and email them to the District Nominating Committee Chairman, IPDG, Sue Chan, DTM ( chansnsue@yahoo.com ) All nominations are to arrive by 5pm on Monday 25th February 2013 .

A Toastmaster of good standing in D51 may nominate another Toastmaster for an officer's position.

All 2013-2014 positions listed above are open for nominations. There is no fixed line of succession nor is there any automatic, guaranteed progression from one office to another.

Nominations close on Monday 25th February 2013 at 5.00pm Malaysian time.

Election of District 51 Officers for the term 2013-2014 will take place at the District Council Meeting on Friday, 24th May 2013 at 2.00pm at Hydro Hotel, Penang

The positions of District Public Relations Officer, Secretary and Treasurer will be appointed by the Incoming District 51 Governor.

The positions of Area Governors will be elected at the respective Area Council Meetings as per past practice in District 51.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

District Leader Mission, Purpose and Qualifications

The mission of the district is to enhance the performance and extend the network of clubs, thereby offering greater numbers of people the opportunity to benefit from the Toastmasters educational program.

DISTRICT GOVERNOR

As the district's chief executive officer, directs the district in a way which fosters strong clubs; produces maximum growth in education completions, club and membership; and is consistent with the interests of members of Toastmasters International. Responsible for motivating the district to achieve Distinguished District. Achieves the mission of the district in a manner which motivates volunteer leaders and promotes a standard of excellence in all district activities.

Qualifications (at the time of taking office) The district governor shall have served at least six (6) consecutive months as a club president and at least twelve (12) consecutive months as a lt. governor or division governor or a combination thereof.

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Under the guidance of the district governor, strives to have every club and each member reap the benefits of the Toastmasters educational program and to have every club become a Distinguished Club. Responsible for achieving Distinguished District goals for CC’s, AC’s and Distinguished Clubs. Provides direction and counsel to division governors, area governors, and club officers on the educational opportunities in Toastmasters. Responsible for the design and conduct of successful district training programs, conferences, and other district educational events.

Qualifications (at the time of taking office) The lt. governor education and training shall have served at least six (6) consecutive months as a club president and at least twelve (12) consecutive months as a lt. governor, division governor, an area governor, or a combination thereof.

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR MARKETING

Under guidance of the district governor, makes the benefits of Toastmasters membership available to greater numbers of people. Plans, develops, implements, and directs short-term and long-term district marketing objectives. Develops and directs programs for new club development, club rescue efforts, club membership promotion, and membership retention. Responsible for achieving Distinguished District goals for membership and club growth. Promotes standards of service to the member and to the club.

Qualifications (at the time of taking office) The lt. governor marketing shall have served at least six (6) consecutive months as a club president and at least twelve (12) consecutive months as a lt. governor, division governor, an area governor, or a combination thereof.

DIVISION GOVERNOR

Achieves the mission of the district within the division, accomplishing district goals in membership building and retention, club extension, and educational accomplishments. Ensures that each club realizes its mission and fulfills its responsibilities to its members. Responsible for achieving Distinguished Division Program goals and for ensuring that areas and clubs within the division achieve Distinguished status. Serves the division clubs by providing district support and resources through the area governors.

Qualifications (at the time of taking office) A division governor shall have served at least six (6) consecutive months as a member of a district council (e.g., club president, vice president education, area governor, district secretary, district treasurer).

Fellow Toastmasters,

Whether we are nominating a member or we are being nominated, please bear in mind that we come in whole heartedly to serve District 51. Once the commitment is made, the responsibility is upon the team to work towards the common goal - the growth and development of the members and clubs. Every club constitutes the pulse of District 51 and it is the District leaders who will have to serve and ensure that the clubs are run according to the guidelines laid down by Toastmasters International.

All the best to the candidates who are nominated and wishing all a meaningful journey in Toastmasters - Where Leaders Are Made.

Seize this Moment to Serve in District 51!

Ramdas Nayar, DTM

District 51 Governor 2012-2013

" Seize the Moment"

Email: r amdas.nayar@gmail.com

Semi Annual Convention 2012 - M.A.D

2012-11-30T19:42:00.000+08:00

One of the most awaited events of the year has arrived – the Semi Annual Convention 2012 with the theme 'Make A Difference'. It was not only a distinguished and grand occasion for all Toastmasters members under District 51; it was also the time where champions from 11 divisions came together to compete for the Best Humorous Speaker and Best Evaluator titles in District 51.

This year, Area W3 is extremely privileged to have our Assistant Area Governor of Education & Training, Timothy Nakayama to represent us to compete for both Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contest in the District 51 Semi Annual Convention on 17^th November 2012. He was also honorably represented our division, Division W.

Timothy came from a long way; he joined Friendship Toastmasters Club in January this year. Since joining the club, Timothy actively, enthusiastically and vigorously delivered his project speeches and evaluations in every meeting, as well as in other Toastmasters club meetings. Within the few months, he achieved the title as Advance Communicator Silver.

Timothy’s long battle in the Humorous Speech and Evaluation contest began since Friendship Toastmasters Club Contest on August 7^th 2012. After winning as club’s best humorous speaker and evaluator, he moved on to Area W3 contest on September 7^th. He continued to conquer both titles all the way to Division W contest on September 29^th. Finally, he was there to compete against 11 district-finalists at the Semi Annual Convention.

As the day came, Timothy was all prepared and ready. Both Humorous Speech and Evaluation contests were furious and challenging as all contestants were outstanding and elite. Timothy resiliently competed with focus, perseverance and believes. Finally, he won the 1^st Runner-Up in the District 51 Humorous Speech Contest. Heartiest Congratulations to Timothy! He made a triumphant breakthrough for being the first Area W3 member winning in a District Humorous Speech Contest.

Timothy Nakayama receiving the 1st Runner-Up for Humorous Speech trophy from D51 Lieutenant Governor Education and Training, DTM Kiang Faang Pyng

Support, glory and pride. Friendship members who came along at the Semi Annual Convention to give power-whoosh to Timothy, including (from left to right) President Alexandra, VPM Sylvia Tan, VPE Daphne Au, Geok Ean, Immediate past President Angeline Lee and Sivadas (busy at the back)

Another marvelous thing that happened during the Semi Annual Convention was receiving the President’s Distinguished Club Award. Last term, Friendship Toastmasters Club and KPMG KL Toastmasters Club have served their best for members and achieved President’s Distinguished Club Award. Congratulations!

Friendship members receiving the President’s Distinguished Club Award from Immediate Past District Governor, Sue Chan

Contributed by,

Alexandra Lau

President of Friendship Toastmasters Club 2012/13

About Area W3

2012-10-20T18:11:00.000+08:00

For 2012/2013, Area W3 consists of five (5) Clubs under Area Governor Chor Chee Hoe.

They are

Friendship Toastmasters Club
IBM Malaysia Toastmasters Club
Hasil Toastmasters Club
KPMG KL Toastmasters
EXACT ADC Toastmasters Club

For 2011/2012, Area W3 consists of five (5) Clubs under Area Governor Kimmy Foo.

They are

Friendship Toastmasters Club
IBM Malaysia Toastmasters Club
Hasil Toastmasters Club
KPMG KL Toastmasters
EXACT ADC Toastmasters Club

For 2010/2011, Area W3 consists of five (5) Clubs under Area Governor Angeline Lee.
They are

Friendship Toastmasters Club
One World Toastmasters Club
Hasil Toastmasters Club
KPMG KL Toastmasters
EXACT ADC Toastmasters Club

For 2009/2010, Area W7 consists of six (6) Clubs under Area Governor Tan Lay Theng.
They are

Friendship Toastmasters Club
Ireka Toastmasters Club
ING Leadership Toastmasters Club
Hasil Toastmasters Club
KPMG KL Toastmasters
EXACT ADC Toastmasters Club

Greetings from Area Governor 2012/13

2012-07-01T11:09:00.000+08:00

Greetings fellow Toastmasters of Area W3!

Seize The Moment - Go For It!

As your Area Governor for this term, I am happy and privileged to be entrusted with the role of helping every member of Area W3 to achieve your Toastmasters goals, in the communication track as well as the leadership track.
Let's seize the moment and achieve what we desire!

As it is not possible to do this on my own, I will be working together with your Club Officers of Exact ADC, Friendship, Hasil, IBM Malaysia and KPMG KL, to help you in your 'Go For It' journey.

In addition, we have three amazing individuals who will be helping us and they are

Assistant Area Governor of Education and Training - Timothy Nakayama (Friendship TMC)
Area W3 Secretary - Wendy Yap (IBM Malaysia TMC)
Area W3 Webmaster - Daphne Au (Friendship TMC)

Wishing you a happy and fruitful journey ahead of you in your quest to achieve your goals!

Yours in Toastmasters service,
Chor Chee Hoe

Area W3 Update June 2012

2012-06-16T13:54:00.000+08:00

Divsion W Governor 2012/2013 Lay Theng

Area W3 is pleased and proud to announce that our incoming Division W Governor for 2012/2013 is Tan Lay Theng. Without a doubt, she will serve to the best of her ability, with her leadership skills gained while serving in the following roles

Club President of Friendship Toastmasters Club 2008/2009. Friendship achieved President Distinguished Club status during her term
Area W7 Governor 2009/2010. Area W7 achieved President Distinguished Area status under her capable leadership
Assistant Division W Governor Education 2011/2012

Area W3 Governor 2012/2013 Chee Hoe

Area W3 is also pleased to announce that our Area Governor for 2012/2013 is Chor Chee Hoe. In his 2 years Toastmasters journey, he has undertaken the following leadership roles

Vice President Membership of Friendship Toastmasters Club 2010/2011
Vice President Education of Friendship Toastmasters Club 2011/2012
Assistant Area W3 Governor Marketing 2010/2011
Assistant Area W3 Governor Education & Training 2011/2012

Division W and Area W3 will be in capable hands when both Lay Theng and Chee Hoe take up their Division Governor and Area Governor roles on 1 July 2012.

With their continuous desire and effort to lead members of Division W, with their humble attitude to learn and to share what they have learnt, we are fortunate to have them as our leaders.

Division W Contest 17 March 2012

2012-05-27T18:22:00.001+08:00

Division W Governor Marian Lee with TME John Cheah

Division W International Speech Contest

Five brave contestants gave their best on a Saturday afternoon, and the appreciative audience enjoyed various topics about never giving up, Dec 12 2012, smelling the roses, being not good enough and the meaning of death.

Apart from winning the trophies generously provided by District 51, the champions for Division W International Speech Contest and Table Topics Contest will proceed to District 51’s contests to be held on Sun 29 April 2012 at Sunway Convention Centre.

Our third place winner spoke of impending doomsday on Dec 12 2012, according to the Mayan calendar. He even bought his own Mayan calendar to show us the time. With less than 300 days to go before Dec 12, he advocated doing more charity work.

Our second place winner learnt about the meaning of death from his friend, the nicest guy that he knew of. One day, as he was about to board the flight to Singapore to visit his friend, he received the devastating news that his friend has just passed away, at the age of 21. He regretted not visiting him more often, while his friend was undergoing treatment for leukemia. From that day onwards, he resolved to live his life with no regrets.

Our champion was told that he was useless, that he was not good enough and not smart enough when his team members rejected him, his teacher and his bus driver scolded him. On a fateful day, a book that belonged to another student ended in his hands. He decided to read this book that told the tales of famous persons who had faced rejection and ridicule before they became successful. He found inspiration in the early struggles of Albert Einstein, Michael Jordan and George Custard. From them, he learnt that we should believe in ourselves, because all of us have the potential to do great things.

International Speech Contest Chair, CC, ALB Teoh Chun Ming (right) presenting the certificate of participation to the Teo Soo Loon, Area W3 contestant

International Speech Contest Results
Champion – Lee Han-Sen (TTDI)
1st runner up – Dominic Teoh (HSBC KL)
2nd runner up – Lawrence Hoo (Speakers Dream)

Division W Table Topics Contest

After a refreshing break where we mingled and chatted while we enjoy the delicious spread of fried beehoon, popiah, vegetables and delicious chicken curry, it was time for another entertaining session.

The question posed to our five contestants was – having no choices makes you happier than having more choices.

Our third place winner chose to be happy. In life, we have choices when we choose to change jobs, to settle down and start a family. In life, we also have no choice when it comes to death. Whether we have choices or none, our contestant choose to be happy.

Our second place winner humorously told us that at her age, having no choice is better for her. It was time for her to hold someone’s hand, to walk down the red carpet and to grow old together. She is looking forward to finding her life partner, for whom she is his choice!

Our champion advocated having variety in life, to escape the monotonous routine of life. For him, he found that as he grew older, he has more choices as he is still single. Ultimately, he believes that each of us has a higher purpose in life and we would know what choice to make, when the time comes.

Table Topics Contest Chair, DTM G Sivalingam (right) presenting the certificate of participation to Guok Lee Lee, Area W3 contestant

Table Topics Contest Results
Champion – Mark Lee (Speakers Dream)
1st runner up – E Son Lee (MAICSA)
2nd runner up – Lee Xi Wen (TTDI)

Division W International Speech Champion Han-Sen (left) with Division W Table Topic Champion Mark

As winners of the International Speech Contest and Table Topics Contest, both Han-Sen and Mark now have no choice but to proceed to District 51 Contests on 29 April! We know that both of them are more than good enough, and that they have the potential to do great things.

Photos contributed by TARC Toastmasters Club

Area W3 Contest 25 Feb 2012

2012-03-03T16:08:00.000+08:00

On a bright Saturday afternoon, club members of Area W3 gathered at IBM office to support our club champions contesting at our Area contest. Thank you to IBM Malaysia Toastmasters Club for providing a world-class contest venue.

(L-R) W3 Contestants Freddie (Friendship), Amanda (KPMG KL), Area W3 Governor Kimmy Foo, Soo Loon & Lee Lee (Exact ADC), Aaron (KPMG KL)

As joint hosts, KPMG KL and IBM Malaysia Toastmasters Club did an excellent job in preparing the contest venue. Special thanks to Grace Loh for her fabulous potato salad which was an instant hit with the health-conscious members of Area W3. We also had sandwiches, kuih, muffins and doughnuts provided KPMG KL, Exact ADC and Friendship Toastmasters Club.

Attendees enjoying the generous spread prepared by Area W3 Clubs

Organising Chair Chee Hoe was not able to attend the contest due to his outstation work assignment at Kota Kinabalu. Area Govenor Kimmy read out his welcome message:

I'm so sorry that I couldn't make it to this contest and welcome you in person. Due to work, I have to miss this GREAT and LOVELY contest. Honestly, I'm currently bored at work because nothing will be more interesting than spending my time at the Area Contest now.

Toastmasters from Area W3 Clubs contribute to this massive event today. Because of them, I realized the true meaning of TEAMWORK.

A big THANK YOU to another group of Toastmasters - the contestants.
All of you are Champions! Your voice can make a difference!

We started with the International Speech Contest where we were amused and entertained by four talented speakers. When Aaron asked, “Who killed chivalry?”, several female members of the audience answered, “Men!”. Aaron spent the next 6 minutes hilariously explaining that it was women who killed chivalry. In his opinion the garbage man with the heart of gold should not be tossed aside as sincerity, compassion and kindness matters more than material wealth.

In “Education”, Kenny spoke seriously about the subject of public education. We may complain about the shortfalls of public education but as masters of our destiny, our success is determined by the effort we put in, not just on the textbooks and teachers we have had.

We agreed that we should “Smell the roses” after listening to Soo Loon’s speech. For years he slogged at work, always the last to leave the office. Then he began to wonder what was it all for? He decided to spend more time with his family, reading bedtime stories every night to his children. At times, he woke up earlier just to prepare his daughter’s favourite pancake breakfast. Life may be a path full of thorns, it is also a path paved with roses when we choose to make a difference to the people who matters to us.

For Freddie’s “Face-hooked” speech, it set us thinking – are we spending too much time on Facebook? Although a wonderful invention, he cautioned us not to neglect the people in our lives while we constantly check on the updates of our cyber friends.

International Speech Contest Results
Champion – Teo Soo Loon (Exact ADC)
1st runner up - Freddie Yap (Friendship)

Area W3 International Speech Champion Soo Loon

For the Table Topics Contest, the topic posed was, “Experience teaches us more than books”. In Kenny’s opinion, experience is the best teacher because when you get burnt, you will remember it for life!

As chances come and chances go, Amanda urged us to grab the opportunity to experience something new that may change your life forever. For Freddie, he recommended to read more to tap on the experiences of others. Instead of finding our way thru the jungle on our own, why not read to find out the path to take?

For Lee Lee, she started dramatically with a scene where her 6 year old daughter insisted on going out to play and she ended up getting hurt. Lee Lee had relented and allowed her daughter to go out despite the risk of getting hurt because she believed that we may read tons of books and surf the net but without experience, we have nothing.

Table Topics Contest Results
Champion – Guok Lee Lee (Exact ADC)
1st runner up - Freddie Yap (Friendship)

Area W3 Table Topic Champion Lee Lee

Our Area W3 Champions will represent W3 at Division W International Speech and Table Topics Contest on Sat 17 March 2012 at Goldhill Club, Kepong. We wish them all the best on their next destination, as they continue on their path to be a better speaker.

Here’s hoping that everyone will remember to smell the roses and enjoy life while gaining new experiences and new-found wisdom in our quests to be better than what we were yesterday.

Thank you IBM Malaysia, for an excellent contest venue.
Thank you IBM Malaysia and KPMG KL, for co-hosting this wonderful event !

Photos contributed by President Eric Low, TARC Toastmasters Club

November 2011 Club Meetings

2011-12-29T16:52:00.000+08:00

Friendship on Tues 1 Nov 2011

On an evening of drizzling rain, members and guests of Friendship convened at Bukit Kiara to Initiate the Transformation to revolutionize (word of the day) our communication and leadership skills.

Members & guests of Friendship

With 4 project speeches and Table Topics Session filled with “transformation” questions, General Evaluator Victor declared it to be a productive meeting.

At the end of the meeting, Immediate Past Area W3 Governor Angeline presented Immediate Past President Zaiton with District 51 President Distinguished Club award, for her leadership role in guiding Friendship to a successful term for 2010/2011.

VPM Alexandra who has been working assiduously on her Competent Leadership projects was presented with the Half CL ribbon as she has completed 14 out of the required 23 projects.

IBM Malaysia on Wed 2 Nov 2011

For their second club meeting, IBM Toastmasters gamely took on all meeting roles with the exception of the evaluator roles. President Kenny in trying out the TME role for the first time declared that it was fun because he was in control of the meeting !

Grammarian Laila presenting her entertaining and insightful report

In Anthony’s Ice Breaker speech, he shared with us the upheaval in his life back in 2010. Despite the difficulties he had faced, he was grateful he had emerged stronger and wiser.

Yiyin’s Ice Breaker speech about her school days and her college years was refreshing as she was a natural speaker, at ease speaking in front of her peers and visiting Toastmasters.

President Kenny presenting GE Aaron with a token of appreciation

It was equally refreshing to observe that new IBM Toastmasters were putting in effort to practice and improve as speakers and leaders, guided by their dedicated club sponsors and mentors.

KPMG KL on Wed 9 Nov 2011
By TME Jowy Chong

Two hours well spent! We had a fruitful and efficient meeting today. Once again our members demonstrated excellent team spirit, flexibility and ever willingness to accept challenges.

It’s a known fact that KPMG’ians are always busy with work and operating under tight schedule. At the eleventh hour, our VPE standing in for President and as speech evaluator as well as our Club Secretary playing the role of Ah counter were unable to attend the meeting. Our Grammarian also could not make it at the last minute !

Without a sign of panic, first timer TME, Jowy Chong, with the help of IPP Grace quickly sorted matters out by asking members to multi-task and inviting our guests to take up available roles.

Best Table Topic Speakers Ben and Suresh with TME Jowy (middle)

We had a successful and fun meeting where 13 of us participated and brought home some learning points. The meeting ended on time with a delicious, simple nasi lemak meal as well as an apple each. It was indeed a very efficient and fruitful lunch meeting today.

Kudos to our neighbour and friends from IBM - Ben Koh, Wai Lim and Kenny Chan. Not only did they join us for the meeting and bravely volunteered to be table topics speakers, they also took up the impromptu roles as Grammarian and Ah Counter.

This is what I call the TOASTMASTERS SPIRIT ! Well done everyone.

October 2011 Club Meetings Part II

2011-11-11T19:29:00.000+08:00

IBM Malaysia on Wed 19 Oct 2011

For the debut (word of the day) meeting of this newly chartered Area W3 club, it was an evening full of surprises.

Firstly, with sponsoring club members Phoenix and KPMG KL in attendance as well as members from Friendship and Universiti Malaya helping out, the meeting room was packed to the roof with Toastmasters.

Club Mentor Abu Bakar started the evening with an entertaining speech about his Toastmasters journey. Then for Table Topics, Jowy of KPMG KL delivered the first speech with the story of his family vacation. After that, IBM members Ranjinath, Wai Lim, Roslinda and Ben gamely tried out their impromptu speaking skills. Amazingly, they were able to add elements of humour to their speeches as they spoke of naughty schooldays, Chinese chess addiction, leadership skills and social lubricant.

Table Topics speaker Wai Lim

President Kenny’s “Taking Chances” ice breaker speech revealed to us life in a family of 3 siblings, all boys, whom his parents had hoped would grow up to be an engineer, doctor and lawyer. Kenny decided not to take up medicine and took another chance by taking up the Chartered President role for IBM Malaysia.

Laila brought the roof down with her hilarious ice breaker speech. Explaining her name change from Sharifah to Laila on a fateful day in February 2011, this ebullient speaker then told us of her growing up years travelling to several states due to her father’s postings. She had us laughing out loud at her college days’ stories of “borrowing” assignments. All too soon, her time was up and we would have to wait until her next speech to know more about Laila !

Best Table Topic Speaker Ranjinath receiving a ribbon from President Kenny

KPMG KL on Sat 29 Oct 2011
By OC Nur Diyana

It was finally time for our long-awaited event - KPMG KL’s 100th meeting celebration! I believe everyone who attended the celebration at Good Evening Bangkok, 1Utama, would agree with me that it was an exciting and memorable Toastmasters meeting.

For the first time ever, KPMG KL meeting was attended by 53 people in total, including 4 adorable kids, our future Toastmasters !

Amanda presenting her humorous speech

I would like to thank all the role players of this meeting:

Cheerful Toastmasters of the Meeting, Patrick Tan and Grace Loh
Jowy Chong for handling the Lucky Draw session. Everyone went home with at least one gift on that day!
Creative Table Topics Master, Shirley Cheok, and her Table Topics speakers
Stand-up comedians, Toh Joo Lee (the club’s Humorous Speech Contest 2011 1st runner up) and Amanda Wong (the Division W’s Humorous Speech Contest 2011 1st runner up) for your entertaining and humorous speeches
Our evaluators, Suresh Ragavan (the club’s Evaluation Contest 2011 champion) and DTM NJ Singam
Our timers, Madelyn Chong and Wooi Wen Ken
Gary Lau, Janice Chia and Ling Sim Moi for managing the registration counter

Out guest speakers and mentors – Raja Ahmad Muzamir, Kimmy Foo, Angeline Lee and Francis Ng for your motivating speeches, guidance, support and encouragement.

Not forgetting a big thank you to KPMG partners, Lee Min On and Siew Chin Kiang, for your continuous support to the club.

Let’s start counting down to the 200th meeting!

October 2011 Club Meetings

2011-11-04T22:05:00.000+08:00

Friendship on Tues 4 Oct 2011
By VPPR Susan Lim

It was definitely a night for us to reminisce (word of the day) about after our “Embrace The Past” meeting.

In the run-up to the meeting, VPE Chee Hoe encouraged all members to dress up as historical figures or simply put on costumes from the 50s, 60s, 70s or 80s. It explained why some of our Friendship members looked rather different on this special night. Some even borrowed clothes from their parents.

Hippies from the 70s – Grace and VPE Chee Hoe

Our newest member Hann Gan delivered his Ice Breaker speech. He shared with us how he moved from different parts of the world but came back home to Malaysia, where he finally found happiness. The wisdom of his “Coming Home” speech was strong and stimulating – “If you are not happy at home, you won’t be happy anywhere else”. He concluded, “I must be home because I’m happy”.

Hann receiving his Ice Breaker ribbon from President Angeline

Exact ADC on Tues 4 Oct 2011
by VPE Andrew Ng

Suhaida’s ice breaker speech was awesome! She immediately got us hooked when she announced that she was a child prodigy. She had skipped 1 year in primary school, with excellent results in the "Penilaian Tahap Satu". She talked about the 3 important decisions that she made in her life. First, was choosing to study IT. Secondly, her decision to marry her husband and lastly, her decision to join Exact ADC. She has all the potential to be a great speaker and we wish her continuous success in her Toastmasters journey.

Suhaida delivering her Ice Breaker speech

Friendship on Tues 18 Oct 2011
by President Angeline

Sylvia related to us how she found inspiration from Steve Jobs to overcome various obstacles and finally securing her dream job. Past President Lay Theng had much food for thought in evaluating Sylvia's speech. She threw in dashes of MSG, salt and pepper in her impressive evaluation speech. In her opinion, Sylvia’s presentation had adequate MSG - Message, Stance and Gestures. With her facial expression and eye contact, it provided just the right amount of salt and pepper to the presentation. We certainly enjoyed listening to this well-seasoned, aromatic and fragrant evaluation speech, delivered with style and substance.

Lay Theng wins the Best Speech Evaluator award

Sylvia receiving her Half CC Ribbon

Division W Workshop 1 Oct 2011

2011-10-31T21:45:00.000+08:00

This workshop was suitable for young adults on the brink of embarking on their professional career, to working adults with higher management aspirations.

The speakers were Eric Sito, General Manager of JobStreet.com and Leonard Yee, Chartered President of Ireka Toastmasters Club.

Ethane Lee, at 11 months’ old, was the youngest attendee at this workshop. He was a very well-behaved attendee and has started early to develop his potential to be a future speaker and great communicator!

First Job to Dream Job

To secure your dream job, you need to have the right knowledge, the right skills and the right attitude. Eric informed us of the reason for unemployment amongst fresh graduates. Surprisingly, poor command of English is the main reason. Another reason is unrealistic expectation, for example requesting for an unrealistic salary.

There are various job hunting channels available for job-seekers
1. Head-hunting company
2. Recruitment agency
3. Newspapers and magazine
4. Personal recommendation

Eric Sito

He recommended job seekers to:
1. Market yourself by being truthful.
2. Have an “elevated speech” which contains a short description of your self. Do amplify your success, using powerful verbs

As to how to ace a job interview, he recommended to
1. Check out the company’s service philosophy
2. Prepare yourself and show up for the interview on time
3. Prepare for these questions
    Why did you leave your previous company?
    How would you describe yourself?
    What is your interest?
    What is your expectation?

Leadership 101 For Corporate Success

Successful managers depend on the capabilities of subordinates. As it is not possible for a manager to know everything, managers have to delegate various tasks to his team members. In order to get things done and be successful and effective, a manager must be able to engage, empower and motivate his team.

Leonard Yee

Leonard reminisced on his earlier working life as he shared with us on how manager or leaders can form successful teams

1. Be modest
2. Listen carefully
3. Invite discussion about disagreement
4. Focus on the agenda
5. Don’t try to have all the answers
6. Don’t insist that a decision must be made

For his conclusion, he said, “Rewards are huge when you stop trying to control your subordinates. Instead engage, empower and motivate them to contribute their knowledge and experience to a consensus approach. Above all else, be team-oriented.”

Q&A Session

After the workshop, there was a 30 minutes Q&A session, conducted by Area W3 Governor Kimmy Foo.

Gen-X and Gen-Y generation

Managers need to be able to handle generational diversity. Baby boomers are those age 47 and above. Gen-X are those between 31 and 46. Those below 31 are Gen-Y. Company should be able to manage these three different generations at the workplace. Gen-X will think of what they can give to the company while Gen-Y will think of what the company can give to them.

Salary range for top management

Eric encouraged company to promote from within instead of hiring from outside for the top level position. It will certainly lower the cost as well as increase staff morale.

How to evaluate candidate’s behavior and personality during the interview

Leonard told the audience he had learnt from past mistakes and suggested to perform a reference check. Eric stressed that a reference check is very important and do not delegate this task i.e. you should do it yourself. It will help you to select the right candidate.

Leonard and Eric with Division Governor Marian, Area W4 Governor Sam, Assistant Division Governor Lay Theng and Area W5 Governor John

Article contributed by Daphne Au, Friendship Club Secretary

Photos contributed by Sam Leong, Area W4 Governor 2011/2012

September 2011 Club Meetings

2011-10-25T20:39:00.001+08:00

Friendship on Tues 6 Sept 2011

Immaculately dressed and meticulously prepared, TME Ian started our “Plan, Organise, Lead” meeting with high energy and enthusiam. It was obvious that he was an avid Manchester United fan when he cited Sir Alex Ferguson as having performed well in planning, organizing and leading the best football team in the world. Visiting Toastmaster Hadzrin Shah agreed with him whole-heartedly.

The immaculately dressed TME

Past President Lay Theng enthralled us with her tale of working with 3 swimming coaches to achieve her childhood dream. She finally succeeded in achieving her goal of learning how to swim after 17 years. Leveraging on her personal experience, she was the right person to share with us that we learn best when we understand what is our learning style. Then we should go against the grain to become a versatile learner. To her, life without learning is a waste of time. In my opinion, listening to our award-winning speaker is never a waste of time !

Lay Theng is Best Project Speaker

Exact ADC on Tues 13 Sept 2011
by Andrew Ng

It has been a while since Loon played the role of Toastmaster of the Day and he definitely brought the house down with lots of laughter. A natural humour master, he led the session by encouraging everyone to share a little joke.

TME Loon

Our newest member, Dimic Bojan, delivered his Ice Breaker speech. Telling the story of his journey from Slovenia to Malaysia, he shared his many experiences and choices in life.

Dimic delivering his Ice Breaker speech

KPMG KL on Sat 17 Sept 2011

It turned out to be a cosy Saturday meeting with everyone taking part in Table Topics except for the Table Topics Evaluator. When TME Amanda was asked about her wealth, she instantly replied, “I am outstandingly wealthy as I have 400+ friends on Facebook!”

Madeline told us “A Little Bit of Everything” about her stressful, busy life as an auditor. Shobana shared with us her life as a perfect, being in a debate team and enjoying her hostel days with Malay schoolmates. With determination, she completed her ACCA at age 24. She made many sacrifices to achieve this and her only regret was that she put “Fun” aside while she pursued her ACCA studies. Both our Ice Breaker speakers spoke from their hearts and we were moved by their stories.

Project Speakers Madeline, Steven, Suresh, TME Amanda & Shobana

Steven’s speech highlighted a common answer we hear when we ask our colleagues where to go for lunch. “Anything” can turn out to be tricky as there is no restaurant with such a name.

For Suresh’s “Deuteranopia” speech, he presented a well-research speech about a medical condition commonly known as colour-blindness. With much gusto, he made use of several visual aids and injected elements of vocal variety and body movement into his speech. He convinced us that “Deuteranopia is not an illness, it is a medical condition. Although we cannot be pilots or doctors, we are able to function as normal people.”

Friendship on Tues 20 Sept 2011

It was most appropriate that VPE Chee Hoe, the soul of effectiveness and efficiency, was our TME for this meeting with the meeting theme “Effectiveness and Efficiency”. With the program agenda sent out 1 week in advance, and GE invited 1 month in advance, it is obvious why he is an effective and efficient VPE.

As Sylvia was describing the heavenly Lang Tengah beach with white sands, we were transported to her “Holiday in Heaven” on the wings of her vivid, tantalizing choice of words. Her chalet had a sea view, idyllic surroundings and was just at the edge of the white sands and blue ocean. The enchantment continued at night as she gazed at the starry sky and made wishes when 5 shooting stars appeared.

It was a heavenly speech and we were left hoping that Sylvia will continue to enchant and mesmerize us in her future project speeches!

Sylvia (right) with her evaluator Grace

Division W HSC 24 Sept 2011

2011-10-18T17:07:00.000+08:00

Division W Humorous Speech Contest

For those brave of heart, the rewards can be numerous. It certainly takes courage to be a contestant at a speech contest. Division W is cognizant of this and had prepared gifts for our brave-hearted contestants, who gave their best on a sunny, splendid Saturday afternoon at Goldhill Club.

Our Humorous Speech Champion had us in laughter throughout his “We are the Rakyatlah” speech. Starting with patriotic fervour, he told us he had tears in his eyes as he watched the firework display during our August 31 celebration.

He explained to us the hilarious acronyms for UMNO, MIC, MCA and ISA. With perfect comic timing, he had us laughing out aloud when he explained the origin of the t-shirts used for the Hindraf and Bersih rallies.

He ended his speech with, “we cannot be strong with anger, prosper with hatred or compete with resentment.” What we need is unity, understanding and unconditional love.

Our second placed winner had us agreeing with her that she did not require any weight loss product. With her refreshing air of confidence and flair for humour, she was an instant hit with the audience. She recommended that we don’t complain, don’t frown and don’t be stressed out, just laugh when faced with unpleasant situations.

Our third placed winner takes the LRT to work as it is good for the environment and good for the government. He noticed that there are many stupendously unhappy people on the train. Having being diagnosed with cancer in 1996 and having successfully overcome this, his message to us was not to take life too seriously and don’t worry too much. Happiness is up to us, in our journey of life.

Division W Humorous Speech Contest Results
First place – Lee Xi Wen, TTDI
Second place – Amanda Wong, KPMG KL
Third place – Darcy Steinhardt, Speakers Dream

Division W Humorous Speech Champion Lee Xi Wen

KPMG KL members Gary, Amanda (1st runner-up), President Aaron, VPE Michelle & Chee Yong

Division W Evaluation Contest

Test speaker Melvin Cheah was absolutely hilarious in his “How to say it” speech. In his younger days, he did not have much success in matters of the heart. His friend advised him to join Toastmasters. When Melvin asked why, his friend bluntly told him, “you have eyes, strength and brains, but none of them are functioning.”

After joining Toastmasters, his finally found the lady whom he wished to spend the rest of his life with. They were married within 3 months of meeting each other. He then shared with us his TOCE method of winning the heart of his fair maiden. It consisted of Thinking, Organising your thoughts, Converting your thoughts into speech and Evaluation.

His evaluators were immensely entertained by his speech and recommended that he take part in future Humorous Speech contests! His speech had clear organization, with humorous personal stories which the audience could relate to.

Our Evaluation Champion thanked him for his entertaining and informative speech and was convinced that Melvin will be a champion speaker one day.

Division W Evaluation Contest Results
First place – Devi Menon, Sai Masters
Second place – See Tho Whye Kit, TTDI
Third place – Darcy Steinhardt, Speakers Dream

(L-R) Area W3 Governor Kimmy, Son Lee, Contest Chair Lay Theng, Amanda, Xi Wen,

Dr. Devi, Whye Kit, Division W Governor Marian & Area W5 Governor John

Darcy Steinhardt with his no. 1 fans - baby Kalen & his wife Chrissy

Photos contributed by TARC Toastmasters Club

Division W TLI 23 July 2011

2011-10-14T18:28:00.000+08:00

After their club meeting, KPMG KL Club Officers attended TLI

Friendship Club Officers & members

Exact Club Officers Yusaimir & Boby

As the Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) training Session 1 came to a close on the slightly rainy evening of the 23rd of July 2011, I heaved a sigh of relief. As I stood in the almost empty car park of the Function Hall at Tunku Abdul Rahman (TAR College) and waved goodbye to the last attendees, I had a tinge of sadness amidst my relief that it was all over, for now.

Division W had the privilege of a sponsored venue - Function Hall provided by TAR College, and a ready and willing logistics team - TARC Toastmasters Club members headed by the ever energetic President, Eric Low.

As the Organising Chair (OC), I had the opportunity of working as liaison between the Division W Council helmed by Division Governor Marian Lee and the working team at TARC TMC. I am grateful for the enthusiasm and willingness to help from all areas.

The Organinising team - Area W3 Governor Kimmy Foo, TARC President Eric Low, Division Advisor Vincent Hor,
Division Governor Marian Lee, Area W1 Governor Lee Sook Ping & Area W5 Governor John Cheah

Overall, many participants had positive comments on the appropriateness of the sessions conducted by the plenary speakers, and the usefulness of the content presented at the breakout sessions. Coupled with a well ventilated venue with good, simple refreshments, I believe the TLI1 met its main objectives to train the Club Officers of Division W and other divisions in District 51 as well as assist the attending clubs to achieve a portion of their Distinguished Club Program (DCP) goals.

Assistant Division Governor of Education Tan Lay Theng conducting the VPE breakout session

Club Presidents Kelly (Mantissa), Angeline (Friendship), CK Chong (One World), Alex (Ireka) & Aaron (KPMG KL)

at the President breakout session

Acknowledgements

I want to acknowledge District 51 LGET, Ramdas Nayar, DTM, LGM Faang Pyng, DTM and TLI Deputy Chair Johnson Yike, DTM for being the motivational plenary speakers during the TLI. They spoke animatedly, to the point, and have addressed many questions that were on many Club Officers' minds, especially the newer officers.

TLI Deputy Chair Johnson and LGET Ramdas

Special thanks goes to Lay Choo, the advisor for TARC TMC, Eric Low, President of TARC TMC, all the members of TARC TMC for the preparation of the venue, refreshments, directions, parking, as well as supplying role players for the event itself.

TARC club members received their Chartered Member certificates during TLI

The club was chartered in April 2011

Much gratefulness to Division W Council for conducting the various Club Officers' Training (COT) sessions on that day.

Thanks to the help extended by members of Division W Council and TARC Toastmasters Club, being the Organising Chair for this particular TLI 1 was fun!

John Cheah
Organising Chair of TLI1, Division W 2011-2012
Area W5 Governor 2011-2012

Photos contributed by TARC Toastmasters Club

August 2011 Club Meetings

2011-10-11T20:13:00.000+08:00

Hasil on Fri 12 Aug 2011

One has grown accustomed to expect inspiring speeches from VPE Piras. Today was not an exception as his Presidential speech motivated us to be prepared to change anytime, all the time. By being willing to change whenever the opportunity arises, we will soar like an eagle.

After that, graceful (word of the day) and gracious TME Joriah took over the meeting proceedings.

It was Datin Josephine’s second visit and she did not hesitate to take part in Table Topics, along with Mustafa, Piras, Sotimin and Loke. For his brave volunteers, Table Topics Master Khif had prepared questions about MRT, riots and food hygiene.

Loke, Joriah, Mustafa, Sotimin, Piras and Khif

Humour Master Piras has us in laughter with his jokes about Winston Churchill, the notoriously late trains in India and a police patrol car.

After that, we were listening intently to Project speaker Sotimin’s tale of a house with a garden. His evaluator Mustafa praised him for using a story-telling method and choosing vivid, descriptive words that helped us to visualize the house and the beautiful garden.

Friendship on Mon 22 Aug 2011

For our “Serve with Passion” meeting, VPE Chee Hoe performed the Induction ceremony for our new members Sean Lee and Sylvia Tan. Our General Evaluator Jon Tan from TTDI Toastmasters Club, found it to be well conducted and praised VPE Chee Hoe for a job well done.

VPE Chee Hoe conducting the New Member Induction ceremony for Sean and Sylvia

Table Topics Master Sylvia provided us with a hilarious Table Topics Session with her “continue the story” approach about a passionate boy named Daniel who wanted to learn violin at the age of 15. She had five capable speakers namely Freddie, Ben, Susan, Ian and Kwok Hung who spun magic (and much laughter) with their story-telling skills involving an orphanage, and iPad, Wang Lee Hom and Malaysian Idol !

Sylvia conducting the Table Topics Session

KPMG KL on Sat 27 Aug 2011

We had two children as guests for this meeting and Table Topics Master Suresh tried his best to cajole our two young guests to try out Table Topics. In a hilarious twist, their father Mr. Siew, a partner at KPMG, gamely gave us his opinion on how to make Malaysia a better place, after his young son volunteered him for Table Topics !

We had another round of laughter when our young guest reminded Amanda, “There are children here” during her presentation of her award-winning “Don’t hang up, laugh!” speech.

With two Ice Breaker speeches from Steven and Chin Wei, we learnt about “Mr. Pricy” and student life in New Zealand.

Min On receiving his Best Speech Evaluator award from Area Governor Kimmy

It was a morning well spent at KPMG when Min On, an excellent evaluator, gave his closing speech on how to apply what we learnt at Toastmasters meeting to break the ice with clients, demonstrate our competencies and convince our clients that we are the right person to get the job done.

Area W3 HSC 18.08.2011

2011-09-09T21:57:00.001+08:00

The day of the Area Contest finally arrived! After days of intense preparation by the contestants, it was finally time to find out who was the best among the best of Area W3.

At G Tower, the meeting venue of our hosting club Exact ADC Toastmasters Club, we partook of a sumptuous buffet spread after the role players and contestants briefing were carried out by Chief Judge Tan Lay Theng and Contest Chairs Lee Han-Sen and Kelly Teng.

Exact ADC members

KPMG KL members

Friendship members

Then it was time for the contest to begin. In the Humorous Speech Contest, it was a series of 6 humorous speeches by 6 contestants. We witnessed three brilliant performances from our three winners.

Living in a “Simply Complicated” world, our third place winner had hilarious tales of women’s love for warehouse sales and men’s love for tiny and expensive gadgets. To uncomplicate our “Simply Complicated” lives, she recommended more patience, more “yes dear” and more of smiling at each other, so that everyone can “live happily ever after”.

Our second place winner shared “My Three Lessons” in his tale of dateless nights during his younger days. He embarked on gym visits and taking protein supplements in a bid to impress the ladies but ended up impressing guys instead. Finally, he discovered the power of the tongue. He also cleverly incorporated elements of other contestants’ speeches into his speech before ending with, “My fellow Marsians, if you have the power of the tongue, Venus is yours to conquer!”

In “Don’t hang up, laugh”, our Humorous Speech Champion weave hilarious tales of weight loss program, bankruptcy and Indian accent in her ploy to confuse and confound telemarketers. Generating the most laughter, our Champion is definitely a serious contender at our Division W Humorous Speech Contest on 24 September 2011!

Area W3 Humorous Speech Contest
First place – Amanda Wong, KPMG KL
Second place – Teo Soo Loon, Exact ADC
Third place – Brenda Loo, Exact ADC

Amanda Wong receiving her trophy from

Division W Governor Marian Lee

For the Evaluation Contest, test speaker Hadzrin Shah gave an outstanding, hilarious presentation in his “What is in a Name?” speech. He started by quoting Bill Cosby’s advice to have your child’s name ending with a vowel and immediately demonstrated the sound effect of this. In one of his amusing stories, he explained how he was known as “Puan Azlin”. Although he was not amused to have both his gender and named changed, the audience enjoyed this story!

It was not an easy task to evaluate this accomplished speaker. Our Evaluation contestants nevertheless gave their best to provide specific, motivating and encouraging evaluations for Hadzrin.

Area W3 Evaluation Contest
First place – Brenda Loo, Exact ADC
Second place – Teo Soo Loon, Exact ADC
Third place – Michelle Yip, KPMG KL

Brenda Loo receiving her trophy from

Division W Governor Marian Lee

Congratulations to our winners for Area W3 Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contests. They will proceed to participate at Division W Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contests on 24 September 2011. We wish our Area W3 contestants all the best!

Winners Michelle, Amanda, Soo Loon and Brenda

July 2011 Club Meetings Part II

2011-08-31T11:52:00.000+08:00

KPMG KL on Sat 23 July 2011

DTM Dennis Wee had to remind us that the Word of the Day is not handsome! This was after he was described as such by TME Janice and several other members and guests. Indeed he was incredible (the word of the day), as he presented "How to Craft a Winning Speech" based on his experience preparing for his contest speeches.

DTM Dennis

Then we had two project speeches from the Competent Communication manual. Ling Sim “got to the point” by telling us that “Two is Better than One”, while Amanda showed us how to get rid of tele-marketers. Ling Sim’s speech was the hot topic of conversation after the meeting ended !

Heading the evaluation session, the (incredible) General Evaluator DTM Dennis, evaluated the evaluators for Ling Sim and Amanda, and provided words of encouragement for all roleplayers.

GE Dennis receiving token of appreciation from President Aaron

After a short lunch break, KPMG club officers went over to TAR College to attend Division W TLI Training session.

As for Dennis, after the meeting, he received a text message thanking him for his presentation. A KPMG fan had taken the trouble to find out his contact number and sent him a note of appreciation.

Exact ADC on Tue 26 July 2011
By Caroline Yap

In her President’s opening speech, Caroline asked members to look back at what they have achieved as Toastmasters. She invited members to join forces with her, to encourage one another, as members embark on their Toastmasters journey together to achieve what they have aimed for.

President Caroline presenting Brenda with her Best Table Topics Speaker certificate

For the assignment speeches, we had two interesting line-ups from the ACB manual “Communicating on Television”. The first show was on “Hoarding” and the host, Chee Yoong was quite a natural presenter, as he interviewed the guest, played by Brenda. Brenda was equally believable as a Harvard professor who had researched and written a book on hoarding. The second show on “Happiness” was hosted by Brenda. This time round, Chee Yoong played the guest, a doctor from a reputable psychiatric hospital in Malaysia.

Exact's talk show hosts

Both speakers were natural and comfortable in front of the camera. In Loon’s and Yuen Kai’s evaluation of the assignments, they had nothing but praises for the speakers’ excellent preparation !

July 2011 Club Meetings

2011-08-24T12:38:00.000+08:00

Friendship on Tue 5 July 2011

Daphne in her “Fair Lady from Ipoh” Ice Breaker speech was charming, earnest and sincere. Explaining that despite her small size, due to her generosity in giving her food away to her siblings, she is nevertheless more than capable of defending her siblings when the need arise. This fair lady from Ipoh also showed us her humorous side when she made us laugh out loud with her tales about “lembu”.

Daphne receiving her Ice Breaker Ribbon

For this meeting, our usual Table Topics Session was replaced by Games Session which involves acting skills and impromptu speaking skills. Thanks to our group of talented participants, we had a good laugh as Tony & James, Grace & Nee Wern, Ian Tai & Ian Lai, Sylvia & Sean paired up to act and speak on topics selected by VPE Chee Hoe. Ian Tai enjoyed this session and recommended to have more of this at our future meetings.

Exact ADC on Tue 12 July 2011
By Caroline Yap

Despite the hazy skies, our first meeting for the new term kicked off with a fiery start. TME Andrew got everyone sharing comments about the haze (theme of the day) and it clearly showed that this yearly phenomenon affects most of us a great deal, especially our well-being. Everyone shared some light moments as we heard each others’ complains about the weather.

TV Presenter Chee Yoong

Chee Yoong delivered his first project speech “Straight Talk” from the advance manual “Communicating on Television”. He was assisted by his floor manager cum cameraman, Brenda. As Chee Yoong’s report was recorded live, the video was then played back for the audience’s view. He narrated a fair and unbiased report on the key events of the past weekend, where thousands of Malaysians marched the streets of the city to deliver a message, meant not only for the authorities but also for the general public.

Friendship on Tue 19 July 2011

For our second meeting for 2011/2012 with the meeting theme “Evaluate to Motivate”, it was most appropriate that our General Evaluator was DTM Sue Ding, visiting from Shaklee Dynamic Toastmasters Club. She is a much sought after General Evaluator and fortunately for us, VPE Chee Hoe managed to book her schedule for 19 July.

President Angeline with guest Wilson, PP Lay Theng, GE Sue Ding & VPM Alexandra

For the first prepared speech of the evening, we had the opportunity to learn more about our new Korean member named Sean Lee. Not only was he a natural speaker, he was also able to joke with us that it was not necessary for him to break the ice as Malaysia’s weather is too hot and the ice has melted. His evaluator, the ever dynamic and charming Past President Kim Chow, was delighted when she found out that he is Korean as she is a fan of Korean TV dramas.

Best Project Speaker Sean

Area W3 Club Contests 2011

2011-08-15T21:49:00.000+08:00

KPMG KL on Wed 20 July 2011

Four diverse topics were covered by our four humorous contestants. Michelle recalled attending the 9 July rally in her pristine white skirt. Suresh related a “Cultural Collision” story that a gentlemanly act of peeling a banana for a Russian lady may not be as innocent as it seems. Joo Lee recommended to all ladies that we should think like a man but to act like a lady. Amanda had us laughing with her tips and techniques on how to avoid and annoy telemarketers.

Humorous Speech Contest
First place – Amanda Wong

Second place – Toh Joo Lee

Contestants Amanda, Joo Lee, Michelle and Suresh

KPMG KL on Wed 27 July 2011

The Evaluation Contest started off with test speaker Amanda sharing with us tips on how to avoid telemarketers. Apart from playing pranks on annoying telemarketers, she recommended confusing them by using a foreign accent. When they ask how are you today, she recommended telling them the truth!

Contestants Kok Wai, Suresh, Gary, Aaron, Michelle,
Shin Ying, Grace with Contest Chair Shirley

While waiting for Chief Judge Kimmy and her ballot-counters to tabulate the results, we were treated to a hilarious contestant interview session conducted by Contest Chair Shirley. Proving that Toastmasters are not only trained to speak off the cuff, our contestants proved that they are able to speak humourously as well.

Evaluation Contest
First place – Suresh Ragavan
Second place – Michelle Yip
Third place – Aaron Francis Lee

Friendship on Tue 2 Aug 2011

The four contest speeches were on various topics about speaking up, facing fears in your life, getting rid of an unwanted housemate and continuous change. James was able to impress a damsel in distress when he spoke up. Angeline faced her fears of heights and leadership roles while Sylvia successfully got rid of her housemate and gained a fiancé at the same time. Sivadas told us about the continuous change in Malaysia.

Humorous Speech Contest
First place – Angeline Lee
Second place – James Arokiasamy

With five Friendship contestants Tony, Chee Hoe, Ben, Freddie and Angeline evaluating Zoe Lo, she certainly had lots of free evaluation! Her evaluators particularly liked her inspiring take-home message to appreciate what we have instead of focusing on what has gone wrong. She reminded us that we have many things to be grateful about, even if we have a bad haircut.

Evaluation Contest
First place – Freddie Yap
Second place – Angeline Lee
Third place – Tony Lim

Contestants Angeline, Ben, Freddie, Chee Hoe, Tony and Sivadas

Exact ADC on Tue 9 Aug 2011

With tales of scamming thru SMS contests, trying to impress girls with his physique and creative use for a car spoiler, it was an evening of fun and laughter at Exact ADC. Not only that, it was a feast fit for a king as we enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner spread.

Humorous Speech Contest
First place – Teo Soo Loon
Second place – Brenda Loo

Proving that he has brains as well as brawn, Soo Loon delivered a concise, structured and motivating evaluation. Despite his disappointment after being scammed in an SMS contest, Andrew gave a thorough evaluation for test speaker Zoe Lo. With her detailed knowledge of men’s obsession with gadgets and car spoilers, Brenda cautioned Zoe that using props in a speech can be tricky as it can work against you.

Evaluation Contest
First place – Teo Soo Loon
Second place – Brenda Loo

Brenda and Soo Loon

Congratulations to all winners from Area W3 clubs ! Each club will be sending two representatives to our Area W3 Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contests on Thursday 18 August 2011 7.30 PM at G Tower, Jalan Tun Razak. Do join us for an entertaining evening of speeches, evaluation and sumptuous buffet dinner !

Club Installations July 2011

2011-08-09T18:20:00.004+08:00

Friendship on Tue 5 July 2011

For our inaugural meeting for 2011/2012, with the meeting theme of “Strive for Success”, our team of Club Officers was officially installed by our dynamic and charming Past President Kim Chow.

Friendship’s Club Officers for 2011/2012 are
President – Angeline Lee
Vice President Education – Chor Chee Hoe
Vice President Membership – Alexandra Lau
Vice President Public Relations – Susan Lim
Secretary – Daphne Au
Treasurer – Ian Tai
Sergeant At Arms – Andy Supramaniam

From left: Alexandra, Chee Hoe, Angeline, Ian, Daphne & Susan

Past President Kim conducted the Installation ceremony with dignity, poise and class. Our new team of Club Officers pledged to carry out their duties to the best of their abilities and will work towards “striving for success” for Friendship !

Members & guests at Friendship’s installation meeting

Exact ADC on Thur 14 July 2011
By Andrew Ng

Thank you to our Area W3 Governor, Kimmy Foo, for being our Installation Officer.

From left: Kimmy, Caroline, Andrew, Boby & Yusaimir

Exact ADC’s Club Officers for 2011/2012 are
President – Caroline Yap
Vice President Education – Andrew Ng
Vice President Membership – Guok Lee Lee
Secretary – Boby Auliaputra
Treasurer – Mohd. Yusaimir Yusof
Sergeant At Arms – Mohd. Yusaimir Yusof

Our special guest for this evening was Dorothy Foo, our company’s HR Manager. After the installation, it was time for a group photo with the fun and energetic members of Exact ADC !

From left: Edward, Loon, Caroline, Dorothy, Suzie, Andrew, Boby, Yusaimir, Ai Shiang and Ling Chee

KPMG KL on Wed 27 July 2011

The installation ceremony was held right after KPMG’s Evaluation Contest. Thank you to Area W3 Governor Kimmy Foo. She was our Chief Judge as well as our Installation Officer. The installation ceremony was short and simple, a dignified end to our Evaluation Contest.

President Aaron being installed by Area W3 Governor Kimmy

KPMG’s Club Officers for 2011/2012 are
President – Aaron Francis Lee
Vice President Education – Michelle Yip
Vice President Membership – Patrick Tan
Vice President Public Relations – Toh Joo Lee
Secretary – Nur Diyana
Treasurer – Shirley Cheok
Sergeant At Arms – Jowy Chong

From left: Michelle, Joo Lee, Diyana, Aaron, Shirley & Jowy

Thank you members and guests for attending our Contest cum Installation night !

June Club Meetings Part II

2011-08-03T07:42:00.000+08:00

Exact ADC on Tue 14 June 2011
By Andrew Ng

The meeting started off with the Toastmaster Of the Day, Chee Yoong explaining what the term “Manglish” meant. Typical examples are the usage of “lah”, “nah”, “kaw” and “cabut” in our daily conversation here in Malaysia. It is a combination of many Bahasa Malaysia and English words. Everyone was in a jovial mood when asked to use an example of Manglish, in the round of introduction.

TME Chee Yoong

For the assignment speeches, Past President Soo Loon and Leong Kwok Hung, visiting from Friendship Toastmasters Club, respectively presented their 9th speech projects from the CC manual. Loon’s speech was entitled ‘To Speak or Not to Speak’ and he spoke on “Glossophobia” or speech anxiety. Presentation skill is an important skill that any employee should have and he gave the following tips on how to deliver a speech or presentation - Topics, Intention, Message and Story.

Kwok Hung’s speech, entitled ‘Maestro’ was very unique. He showed us a video clip of Mozart, a famous music composer to stress his points.

Brenda’s speech was entitled “3G” from the Humorous Speech manual and without fail, she made us laugh throughout the speech.

Kacey and Edward enjoying Brenda’s speech

During the evaluation session, GE Andrew Ng made sure each evaluator’s role was explained to the audience. The table topics evaluation was done by Kimmy Foo, our incoming Area W3 Governor. Her evaluation was awesome and powerful !

Friendship on Tue 21 June 2011
By Susan Lim

The "Looking Back, Looking Ahead" meeting theme was definitely fitting as it was the last meeting with Zaiton as our President, and the rest of the outgoing Exco team.

We had two special guests from Exact ADC Toastmasters Club, Boby Auliaputra playing the Timer role and Andrew Ng as the General Evaluator.

We had two humorous and vibrant project speakers who talked about "Meditating Dog" - I mean "Meditation" and "Dog". Andy talked about the Benefits of Meditation for his speech project #3 Get to the Point. He started by performing a meditation pose on a chair. Not only did he manage to balance himself well, he also grabbed our attention.

Ian Tai shared with us a few tricks on how to train the dog in his speech project #5: Your Body Speaks. Not only did his body speak to us, he also engaged Andy to be his disobedient dog which he trained to be obedient. We roared with laughter!

Exact ADC on Tue 28 June 2011
By Caroline Yap

Table Topic master, Kasey Chan, had topics prepared based on idioms. Andrew spoke on "A burnt child dreads fire." He cited an incident when he was a child and how he was nearly electrocuted. He did well and deserved to be named Best Table Topic Speaker for the day.

President Andrew receiving his Best Table Topics Speaker certificate from VPE Chee Yoong

For the assignment speech session, Chee Yoong completed his CC manual finale with “Be”, inspiring the audience to take a moment to relax and to take a walk with him. He brought us to the green mountains as he sang “Edelweiss” and to encourage us to “Climb every mountain” until you see the rainbow. The “rainbow” signifies the dreams that you have put aside. Now is the time to forgive yourself for not following the dream. Define what you want to achieve and you must have faith in what lies ahead. Last but not least, do not try to be everyone. He ended his speech by reminding the audience “Today you will find your dream, tomorrow you fulfill your destiny to be!”