PENAMPANG: The world’s only KadazanDusun English-speaking Toastmasters club, Misompuru Toastmasters Club, marked a milestone as it celebrated its installation night and the handover to a new executive committee.
Past President Datuk Joanna Kitingan, serving for the second time, said the club’s journey from just eight members to achieving all 10 Distinguished Club Program (DCP) goals and winning the prestigious Smedley Award was a testament to teamwork.
“Misompuru is not just another Toastmasters club. We are a club where we speak the language of global communication while carrying with us the richness of our KadazanDusun identity and heritage,” she said in her address.
Her presidential theme, “Bridging Cultures, Building Voices” or “Popiomo do Koubasanan, Popgiot do Ohuo” in KadazanDusun, reflected the club’s unique mission.
“A president may carry the title, but it is the team that carries the club. That achievement was never mine alone. It belonged to my Exco, to our members, to everyone who took on roles, delivered speeches and encouraged one another,” she said.
She thanked her committee noting that leadership often involves unseen WhatsApp messages, last-minute changes and constant encouragement, all held together by the spirit of mogitatabang (gotong-royong).
In her message to the incoming Exco, Joanna said they were receiving a legacy.
“Awards are wonderful, but they are not the ultimate measure. Our greatest achievement is when a shy member finds their voice, when a nervous speaker becomes confident,” she said.
Joanna also announced her next chapter as Area Director for Area K3, overseeing four Toastmasters clubs.
“My experience in Misompuru has taught me that leadership is not about standing at the front. It is about bringing people together, empowering others, and leaving the organisation stronger than when you found it,” she said.
Also present during the installation ceremony were were Toastmaster Joann Tang; Division K Director Azhar Othman; Area K4 Director Gary Lo Su Phin; Area K2 Director and Distinguished Toastmaster Rachel Chan; incoming president and K3 Area Director Caroline Kunju; and toastmaster Datuk Seri Dr. Bonaventure Sungka.-BNN
