As Soroptimists descend on Kuala Lumpur, the largest city in Malaysia, this young vibrant city prepares to play host to the 21st Soroptimist International Convention 2019. Cutting edge, futuristic architecture, rests side-by-side with a dreamlike mix of iconic structures and the KL Convention Centre, home to a long weekend of highly-anticipated international speakers and events, which sits just a hop skip and jump from the formidable and elegant Petronas Twin Towers.

On 18 July, the day before the Convention truly begins, many Soroptimists have already welcomed the opportunity to enjoy their new surroundings, others taking short trips, with many favouring Melaka on the southwestern coast of the Malay Peninsular, just a couple of hours from Kuala Lumpur. With the three-day Soroptimist International Board meeting now concluded, this afternoon saw the SI Annual General Meeting, however the day begins early for those keen to explore, with a walk in Taman Tugu, a rainforest reforestation project, and a ‘Plant a Tree, Grow a Forest Ceremony’ hosted by SI President, Mariet Verhoef-Cohen, SI Immediate Past President, Yvonne Simpson and SI President Elect, Sharon Fisher.

Photo: From left – President Elect Sharon Fisher, Convention Chair Puan Sri Siew Yong Gnanalingham, Immediate Past President Yvonne Simpson and SI President Mariet Verhoef-Cohen leave a lasting legacy and kick start the adventure prior to the 21st SI Convention, Kuala Lumpur

A hot day awaited the early risers, and adorned with walking boots, sun hats and plenty of smiles, Soroptimists were greeted at The Taman Tugu Project, a not-for-profit corporate social responsibility initiative led by Khazanah Nasional Berhad (Khazanah). Covering around 66 acres with 4km of forest trails, once a dumping ground, a now fabulous green space boasts more than 5000 indigenous trees which together with pathways, shape this urban forest park. Soroptimists were met by an informed and friendly team,  who shared the history and secrets of this beautiful forest – a community focused and educational space dedicated to conserving green space within the city.

Photo: Soroptimists venture into the stunning landscape of the Taman Tugu Forest Trail

Three trees were planted with plaques to commemorate the Soroptimist visit; a lasting legacy and a wonderful gesture of SI’s commitment to a green sustainable world.

Photo: Soroptimist International of the South West Pacific leave a legacy – cheered on by many Soroptimists

Photo: SI President Mariet Verhoef-Cohen (L) and Immediate Past President Yvonne Simpson get to work on the planting of the Soroptimist International tree