April 2023 - April 2024 ANNUAL REPORT THE LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF KUALA LUMPUR B.E 180 - B.E 181
TABLE OF CONTENTS Message from the Local Spiritual Assembly Ridván Election B.E 180 Membership of the Local Spiritual Assembly Office Bearers By-Election Assembly Meetings Adopted Policies Collaboration with Other Institutions Appointment of Cluster Agency Members Sector Task Forces and Assistant Treasurers Nineteen-Day Feasts and Holy Days Pictures From The Community Unit Convention Other Activities External Affairs Other Community Activities Ongoing Projects Ongoing Plans Transfers New Declarants Marriages Births Pioneers In Memoriam INTRODUCTION ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT 1 4 2 4 5 6 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 16 18 19 22 23 24 25 26 26 27 28 29 29
TABLE OF CONTENTS Cluster Agency Annual Report Study Circles Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program Spiritual Education of Children EXPANSION AND CONSOLIDATION 3 31 32 34 36 4 TREASURER’S REPORT 5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 38 48
MESSAGE FROM THE LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY Dearly loved friends, The Local Spiritual Assembly of Kuala Lumpur extends warm wishes for a blessed and joyous Ridván. As we reflect on the growth of the Kuala Lumpur Cluster over the past year, despite the challenges posed by the global crisis, the people of Bahá in the Kuala Lumpur Cluster have demonstrated tremendous dedication. Through expansion and consolidation, social action, and contributing to prevalent discourses, they have worked tirelessly to create vibrant communities within the cluster. These efforts represent dimensions of a single, unified, and outward-looking endeavor, carried out at the grassroots level of society. Progress is evident in devotional meetings and educational initiatives, particularly with a significant increase in study circles. This success is reflected in the embrace of Baha’u’llah's teachings by new believers. Additionally, vibrant youth actively engaged in this process have responded to the call for international pioneering, with two pioneers emerging from within our community. Situated in the capital of our country, we have had the opportunity to engage with members of parliament, inter-religious groups, and non-governmental organizations. Our participation in social activities such as Merdeka Devotionals, the Malaysia Peace Conference, Inter-religious Unity Day Celebrations, and IFTAR Events, have been noteworthy. In response to the National Spiritual Assembly's emphasis on increased contributions to the National Fund, the friends in the Kuala Lumpur Cluster have responded generously—an effort deserving commendation. These achievements serve as motivation for the Kuala Lumpur Cluster community to renew our commitment and strive toward the goals of the Nine-Year Plan. Let us ponder on these words of the Guardian: “The potentialities with which an Almighty Providence has endowed it will no doubt enable its promoters to achieve their purpose… “ With loving Bahá’i greetings, The Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Kuala Lumpur
Page 5 ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT RIDVAN ELECTION B.E 180 The Riḍván Election B.E 180 showcased the love, obedience, and commitment of the Kuala Lumpur Bahá'í Community as many friends stayed until 2:45 am for the results. With 92 names voted for, the tellers' dedication to upholding the sanctity and integrity of the electoral process was admirable. During the consultation session, matters pertaining to the growth of the community were shared and raised. The following is a brief summary of the topics discussed. The Fund : Looking into the contribution especially by youth and the categorising of age in the Fund Report Working in groups of families : How to work in and strengthen groups of families that slowly we can evolve into neighbourhood feasts Spiritual health of the community : Exploring Baháʼí identity within families, individual growth, institutional support, and community spirit through gatherings akin to Winter Schools previously held, and including sessions eg deepening. Institute process : How to encourage members of the community to go through the higher sequence of books in the Ruhi Institute Expansion and consolidation: How to encourage and strengthen home visits Reconnecting with community members : How to have better communication with members of the community through the different mediums. Matters pertaining to the Centre : Adequate utilisation of the Baha’i Centres and update of the library (in KL Baha’i Centre) Holy Days celebrations : How to observe Holy Days and to have more meaningful commemoration and to ensure each sector is involved. External Affairs : To increase involvement in external affairs activities Education of the community : Sessions on Ḥuqúqu'lláh, and workshops on Consultation are suggestions of workshops that can be organised.
Page 6 Total no. of eligible voters Total no. who voted No. of spoilt ballots No. of names voted for 287 106 3 92 Riḍván Election Voting The results of the election were announced to the friends that joyfully stayed back. The Assembly deeply thanks the Chief Teller and the assistant tellers for rendering dedicated service in this capacity. The following is the Chief Teller’s report Name Carmen Low Dylane Ho Satchit Ananda Dr Veno Rajendran Dr Nisha Sreedharan Christopher Tham Rajamanickam Valu Ranee Sreedharan Yee Yeong Chien Votes 102 97 85 82 81 78 71 56 36 The Local Spiritual Assembly of Kuala Lumpur was duly elected on the 1st Day of Riḍván. The following friends were elected to serve on the Assembly MEMBERSHIP OF THE LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OFFICE BEARERS The following Office Bearers were elected on 24 April 2023 : Chairperson: Dr Veno Rajendran Vice-Chairperson: Rajamanickam Valu Secretary: Dylane Ho Assistant Secretary: Satchit Ananda Treasurer: Carmen Low
Page 7 In the month of August 2023, our beloved secretary of the Local Spiritual Assembly heeded the call to pioneer to Brunei, thus fulfilling one of the goals given to the NSA of Malaysia by the Supreme Body. Upon consultation with the Counsellor, she tendered her resignation. The Local Spiritual Assembly conveys its sincere gratitude for the invaluable and sacrificial services rendered by Ms Dylane Ho and prays for her success in her teaching endeavours in Brunei. A by-election was held by the Local Spiritual Assembly on 8 October 2023 and the Assembly warmly welcomed Mr Arvin Raj Kantha Kumar as the new member of the Assembly. Below are the results of the by-election. Number of ballots cast in person Number of postal and hand delivered ballots Total received ballots Number of names voted for New LSA member 24 72 96 39 17 On the same day, the Local Assembly had a meeting and Dr Nisha Sreedharan was elected the new secretary of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Kuala Lumpur.
Page 8 The Assembly met bi-weekly which totals to 21 times in B.E 180. The meeting arrangement is either over zoom on Wednesday or physically on Sunday. Besides the routine scheduled meeting, other meetings were also held as and when required. The record of the meeting attendance throughout the year is as follows : Name Dr Veno Rajendran Rajamanickam Valu Dr Nisha Sreedharan Carmen Low Saw Chew Satchit Ananda Sivalinggam Ranee Sreedharan Christopher Tham Yan Hin Yee Yeong Chien Arvin Raj Kantha Kumar Dylane Ho (Until 13th August 2023) Meeting Attendance 19/21 18/21 19/21 19/21 19/21 20/21 15/21 20/21 10/11 8/8 In addition to the office bearers, each member was assigned specific portfolios to serve as points of contact for the community to address any relevant matters within the purview of the Assembly Centre maintenance : Christopher Tham and Yee Yeong Chien Emergency Response : Rajamanickam Valu, Ranee Sreedharan and Satchit Ananda Marriages : Christopher Tham and Dr Nisha Sreedharan External Affairs : Rajamanickam Valu, Ranee Sreedharan and Dylane Ho Teaching : Dr Veno Rajendran, Satchit Ananda, Rajamanickam Valu and Ranee Sreedharan Education and Spiritual Health : Carmen Low, Dylane Ho, Dr Veno Rajendran and Dr Nisha Sreedharan Election Process : Ranee Sreedharan, Dr Veno Rajendran, Christopher Tham, and Satchit Ananda Communications with visitors to the community: Arvin Raj
Page 9 ADOPTED POLICIES Topic Postal Address Post Box has been affixed in place. In regards to hand delivered ballots for example, the friends can deliver their ballots in the ballot boxes at the respective sectors. Policy Remarks As the Kuala Lumpur Bahá'í Centre is the official address of the Local Spiritual Assembly in comparison with a secretary that may change yearly, the decision to use the KL Bahá'í Centre’s address as the postal address was adopted eg for Riḍván election and Unit Convention purposes. Treasury Google Form for submitting Teaching Report form has been created Allocation of RM 250-500 per event upon request for each sector to use when organising Holy Day celebrations and proclamation events Monthly contributions towards the International Fund to RM1000 per month starting Feb 2024 RM3000 budgeted for Teaching activities which friends may request from the LSA if need be to sustain the activities supported by receipts and teaching reports The Benevolent Fund will be maintained and capped at RM10,000. Holy Day Celebrations Decision on observances of Holy Days to be held at sector or cluster level will be made on a case to case basis taking into account needs and requests of the community.
Page 10 COLLABORATION WITH OTHER INSTITUTIONS National Spiritual Assembly During the opening of the National Haziratu'l-Quds on 17 and 18 June 2023 the friends in Kuala Lumpur cluster rose up to the occasion when volunteers were called upon to assist in various tasks including food, ushers, transportation etc. In addition, when the Bahá'í Publishing Trust (BPT) moved to the same vicinity in December 2023 the friends assisted in painting and organisation of the book shop.In a separate call in January 2024, members of the community generously rendered their time assisting in watering the plants in the National Haziratu'lQuds daily for 9 days. Southern Regional Council Local Assemblies of the Southern Region were invited for a retreat with the National Spiritual Assembly and Regional Baháʼí Council from 20 to 22 October 2023 at Seremban. In the retreat, The National Spiritual Assembly studied the Financial System document with the Local Spiritual Assemblies in its quest to strengthen the financial system of the Bahá'í community. Small group discussions on themes such as a fortified community, groups of families, Institute process, youths and young adults walking a path of service were explored. Upon returning from the retreat, The LSA of Kuala Lumpur restudied the financial document again on 19 Nov 2023
Page 11 Auxiliary Board Member and Cluster Agency The relationship between the Auxiliary Board Member (ABM Yip Siew Ha) this year was stronger with various collaborations between LSA, ATC and ABM either formally or informally. Cluster level study of the Riḍván Message and viewing the “Expansive Prospect” together with the members of the community and the Cluster Agency on 28 May 2023. The LSA met the Cluster Agency on 9 July 2023 and 18 February 2024 to consult ways to facilitate and encourage groups of families to collaborate together for the growth of the neighbourhood. The LSA met with Cheras friends together with the Cluster Agency in May 2023 to consult on how to encourage Feast attendance. The LSA met the Setapak friends in July 2023 to consult on whether to keep and maintain the Setapak Centre. After consultation the Setapak friends decided to maximise the utilization of the Centre including hosting of devotionals, social gatherings, LSA meetings, Nineteen Day Feasts etc The LSA joined the Kepong friends during Ayyam-i-Ha that took place on 24 February 2024. As an outcome from the LSA retreat, the Local Spiritual Assembly studied the document on how to bring about a fortified community together with the Cluster Agency members and the ABM on 5 Nov 2023. The LSA and ATC also jointly met up with new transfer ins to the community The LSA also fully supported the Reflection Meetings which were held at the cluster, sector and neighbourhood levels. The Local Spiritual Assembly took utmost delight and pride that the Cluster Agency members made great decisions to heed the call of the Universal House of Justice to pioneer. The Assembly does have hope that more members of the community would also share in the passion of looking into the educational endeavours that these important portals can be maintained and strengthened and show greater leap in the year to come. APPOINTMENT OF CLUSTER AGENCY MEMBERS The Southern Regional Bahá'í Council and Southern Training Institute Board appointed the following members into the Area Teaching Committee and the Cluster Institute Team:
Page 12 Members of the ATC Mr Chong Wei Shern Ms Laavynia Nambiar Ms Mehri Vahdati Ms Sheila Thiruneelagandan (until July 2023) Mr Yee Yeong Chien (Secretary) Institute coordinator: Ms Dylane Ho (until Oct 2023) Junior Youth Coordinator: Mr Nitesh Nathaniel (until Oct 2023) Children Class Coordinator: Ms Liva Sreedharan (Until Nov 2023) Coordinators The Assembly appointed community members to serve in the Task Force for the five different sectors in Kuala Lumpur. Although the dynamics of each of the Sector Task Force may differ, but generally , the Sector Task Forces were responsible for relaying information from the Assembly to the community members in a timely manner, obtaining responses from the community (such as confirming the number of friends attending a gathering), providing details to the Assembly for reporting purposes and organising their sectors to take part in joint gatherings (Joint Feasts or Joint Holy Days celebrations). The Task Force members ably performed their duties. A few members of the Sector Task Force unfortunately had to request to be relieved as they moved out of that sector or the country. Each sector has a member of the Local Assembly resident in the area. They work closely with the sector task force and step in to assist when needed. The Assembly also appointed an individual in each sector that served as Assistant Treasurer. They had the responsibility of collecting contributions to the Funds and issuing receipts to the friends at the sector level. The Assembly would like to take this opportunity to thank the following individuals who dedicated their time to serve on the Sector Task Force as well as Assistant Treasurer in their respective sectors. SECTOR TASK FORCES AND ASSISTANT TREASURERS
Page 13 Sector Task Force Members Assistant Treasurer Cheras Ms Arta Hoda, then continued by Ms Nur Joo Lee Guna Segar Mr Nur Jee Van Guna Segar Mr Nur Joo Han Guna Segar Ms Shahnaz Simon Kepong Ms Cynthia Lee Sue Jean Mr Hon Kwok Kwong Ms Sheila Thiruneelagandan KL Central Mr Hujjat Nadarajah Ms Chee Ping Wei (Michelle) Ms Maggie Lee Peck Hwa Mr Selvakumar Thambypillai Mr Vidyakaran Subramaniam Old Klang Road Ms Agila Ramachendram Mr Yee Yeong Chien Mr Anis Dev Vasudevan Ms Joyce Low Sin Yee Ms Laleh Setapak Mr Choong Eu Jin Mr Henry Choong Yoon Chien Ms Mahnaz Ivana Simon Ms Reehana Ayne NINETEEN DAY FEASTS AND HOLY DAYS The Nineteen Day Feast is the primary space where the community gathers, whether within the respective sectors or as the whole cluster. The community is kept abreast of the developments at the national and local levels whereby the Feast newsletter from the National and Local Spiritual Assembly is read. The Local Feast update which includes the Local Treasurer’s report is kept not too lengthy as the community had expressed desire to have more time for consultation. Each sector throughout the year has found its own culture of how the nature of the Nineteen Day Feast is conducted. In most areas the Feast is observed on the actual day. In one sector, Feast was held on the weekend to increase participation of especially the children in their sector. Most sectors had the Feast physically, however one sector had it as hybrid to enable those unable to be physically present to also bask in the spirit of the Nineteen Day Feast.
The Baháʼí community had the pleasure and blessing of having Counsellor Nicholas Loh address the community during the Feast of Jalal. He shared the exciting news of 3 localities in Malaysia having two-stage elections this Riḍván B.E 181. He highlighted instances where service and worship are emerging, particularly in the election of village leaders (Tok Batin) and emphasized the need to be outward looking. Counsellor Nicholas praised Kuala Lumpur cluster for 2 of its members' rising up to pioneer, contributing to the 10 pioneers from Malaysia out of 130 internationally. He reminded us that this is a bounty for this community as it is a reflection of the community's nurturing influence on individual growth. Page 14 In most sectors the Nineteen Day Feast has the involvement of the sector Task Force. In one sector, the Feast is taken care of by families, whilst the taskforce takes charge of Holy Days celebrations. Sectors are allowed the room to explore how best to increase the participation and the spirit of the friends, leading to one sector developing the culture of bringing their dinner and a little extra that community members may eat together before the Feast akin to “reunion dinner” whilst still having proper social at the end of the Feast. There were a total of 3 Joint Feasts held throughout the year namely : Feast of Rahmat on 24 June 2023 Feast of Asmá’ on 19 August 2023 Feast of Jalal on 7 April 2024
Year Cheras Kepong KL Central OKR Setapak Total Average Attendance BE178 11 6 21 23 25 86 BE179 11 11 21 23 16 82 BE180 11 7 26 21 14 79 Year Average Attendance Baháʼí Population % Attendance BE178 86 301 29% BE179 82 316 26% BE180 79 314 25% Page 15 Below is a summary of the average Feast attendance in each sector and the trend over the past few years. Holy Days were mostly celebrated and commemorated at sector level. The Twin Holy Birthdays of the Báb and Baha'u'llah was celebrated cluster-wide at the Kuala Lumpur Baháʼí Centre on 15 October 2023. A task force formed few months earlier communicated with the different sectors, involving them in the program. The sectors also made pledges of what they would like to take up as a sector (a path of service, or an activity), whether they can provide assistance to another sector or they are in need of assistance. For the refreshments, each sector contributed their own unique dishes to be shared by all. That most meaningful day saw about 110 friends in the Centre. The Assembly indeed appreciates the huge effort the taskforce put in creatively bringing the community together contributing towards The Twin Holy Birthdays of the Blessed Báb and Baha'u'llah.
Page 18 UNIT CONVENTION The Unit Convention for Electoral Unit No.15 comprising of the Ampang Jaya and Kuala Lumpur clusters was held on 28 January 2024 at the Kuala Lumpur Baháʼí Centre. The Local Spiritual Assembly of Kuala Lumpur coordinated the election, appointing of tellers, and sending out the ballots. This electoral unit was allocated one delegate. A fruitful consultation session took place after the casting of the ballots. A range of topics were discussed including proposing an earmarked human resource development fund for training of various skill sets required in running Baháʼí administration and activities effectively. There was also a discussion on communication and inclusivity pertaining to gatherings or adhoc meetings or discussions. Engagement with young professionals and ways to facilitate their involvement and engagement that they can be inspired to serve and support the Nine-Year Plan also was discussed. The following recommendations were raised at the Unit Convention: 1) Create a calendar of service which can be a platform to enable/facilitate friends to serve within their capacity. List out all the ideas, service projects, outreach endeavours and/or needs of the neighbourhoods as well as the National Haziratu’l-Quds - share the calendar with the community so that friends can volunteer whenever they are available. To enable the elderly and all age group to serve. 2) To develop a directory (database) of human resources for friends to offer their talent/skill sets and establish a pool of resources available for service/volunteers at local and national level in our social action endeavours (i.e. in health, education, agriculture, environment etc) A community document which is accessible to everyone To include a database on profession of Baháʼís to enable collaboration on discourses / social action within their respective field. To establish a list of volunteers and their interest of service
Page 19 3) The age group for fund contribution to be revised to the following for better analysis of contribution demography: Below 10 years old – children 11 - 14 years old – junior youth 15 - 23 years old – students 24 - 35 years old – young working adult 35 - 65 years old – working adult and family life 66 years & above – retiree Total votes received Votes casted in person Postal and hand-delivered votes Unit Convention Voting The Assembly thanks the Chief Teller and the assistant tellers for their service in this capacity. The following is the tellers’ report: 128 37 91 Delegate elected : Nisha Sreedharan (14 votes) Alternate delegate : Yee Yeong Chien (13 votes) OTHER ACTIVITIES Study on Ḥuqúqu'lláh On 30th July 2023 and 6th August 2023, a focussed and joyful study on Ḥuqúqu'lláh with Mr Arul Nathan, the Deputy Trustee of Ḥuqúqu'lláh took place in the Kuala Lumpur Baháʼí Centre. Themes on manner and attitude in which payment of Huququ'llah should be made were also explored.
Page 20 Merdeka Devotionals On 10 September 2023, Kuala Lumpur community came together to have Merdeka Unity Devotionals in commemoration of Malaysia Day. The gathering was attended by more than 75 friends including representative of the Member of Parliament of Seputeh constituency. The programme began with devotionals, followed by screening of “An Expansive Prospect”, sing along session and ended with a beautiful collaborative art project demonstrating the theme “Living Together in Concord and Harmony”.
Page 21 Study of 28 November 2023 Letter On 1 February 2024, 26 friends from KL and Ampang attended a very engaging session by Mr Jayagopan Ramasamy (Gobu) on the 28 November 2023 message released by the Universal House of Justice. This document reflects on the momentous 100 years of growth of the Faith propelled by the release of the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’. Over six hours, he skillfully shared among other points, the key themes and highlights of this Message. While this weighty document—27 pages long—will surely require more reading to be fully grasped, Mr Gobu’s presentation left the participants with a clear initial understanding of the document Memorial for the late Dato Dr Singaraveloo The Local Spiritual Assembly of Kuala Lumpur hosted a memorial service for the late Dato Dr Singaraveloo on 16th March 2024. Guest speakers Ms Ho Yuet Mee, Dato Dr Alex Mathews and Mr Kumar Singaraveloo shared their experience and anecdotal events from the life of this stalwart of the Faith in Malaysia. A life of service to king, layman and the Faith of Baha'u'llah, a distinguished example of work is worship and service is prayer. The memorial was followed by breaking of fast hosted by the Local Assembly.
Malaysia Peace Conference 2023 On 15 July 2023 speakers from all major religions were invited to share at the Malaysia Peace Conference. The theme of the Conference was Bridging The Divide, Fostering Harmony From Within. Presenters came as far as from Australia, Singapore and Malaysia. Mrs Ranee Sreedharan represented the Baháʼí Faith and shared on building bridges - learning from our scholars. Inter Religious Unity Day The Inter Religious Unity Day was an Interfaith event that was held on 16 September 2023 where representatives of all major religions were invited to speak on Unity and Mrs Ranee Sreedharan was invited to represent the Baha'is of Kuala Lumpur. There were also cultural performances, one that caught much interest was a performance by 2 youths ; one by the Christian community and the other by a Baháʼí youth from Shah Alam who choreographed a traditional dance that portrays unity in its movements. Page 22 EXTERNAL AFFAIRS IFTAR Event 5 members of the community including Mr Rajamanickam Valu, Ms Marilyn Wang, Ms Cynthia Lee, Mr Narendran Narasiah and Ms Thatchaayanie a/p Renganathan, participated in an IFTAR event on 6 April 2024 organised by Qoom Academy at Masjid Muadz Bin Jabal Setiawangsa. The keynote speaker Dato Seri Zakariah Sulong (former High Commisioner to Europe) who is the new President for the Masjid Muadz singled out the Baha’i community at least twice and expressed his delight that the Baha’is were represented too in this event. One of the Baha’i representative was given a chance to expound on unity in diversity, and the harmony and beauty in it. The Baha’is were very welcomed and warmly invited to collaborate in their community building activities.
Page 23 Other community activities The Local Assembly appreciates the initiatives of individuals and families in their efforts to strengthen the spiritual bonds through devotional gatherings. Among them were the daily morning prayers on weekdays (via zoom) that celebrated its one year anniversary in November 2023, the devotional meeting to welcome the new transfer ins, praying together in the community to strengthen the bonds of friendship, organisation of devotionals at the homes on the Sunday after the Nineteen Day Feast together with discussion or deepening on certain topics and the inviting of friends of the faith, the meet ups for parents with small kids, etc. We look forward to more ways in which the friends will find opportunities to open their homes for prayers and reflection among family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours. With regards to community action, the Local Assembly is pleased to see the friends in neighbourhoods organise themselves and intensify activities. Taman Desa neighbourhood is seeing the formation of a new junior youth group as their efforts intensify in that area. The Local Assembly is also pleased to see the friends in Limau Neighbourhood organize themselves into 3 groups to advance the educational process, alongside their endeavours in social action having 3 core groups formed which focus on the Arts, on Health and Wellbeing, and another on Nutrition and Health that will look into food sourcing and supply to disadvantaged families.
Page 24 ONGOING PROJECTS Topics Library Cataloguing of books almost completed – to look into plans of having the library open once a week Remarks Strengthening of groups of families Neighbourhood meetings, groups of families taking ownership and strengthening bonds of friendship, groups of families looking into areas of interest that can be worked on together, inviting mutual support and fostering deeper conversations between the families is slowly gaining momentum Relationship with government and civil society Fostering deeper relationship and more strategies to reach out to Members of Parliament and City Hall in Kuala Lumpur is ongoing and can be more rigorous Signage The Assembly is in the process of making a sign board for the Kuala Lumpur Baháʼí Centre as requested by the believers. There is a process that is involved that includes DBKL and Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka. Effort to be continued by the incoming Local Spiritual Assembly. Children's reading corner The Assembly is planning to have a children’s reading corner in the Kuala Lumpur Baháʼí Centre. Next step is collection of Baháʼí children books.
Page 25 ONGOING PLANS Topics Youths and young adults Organisation of workshops touching on topics related to life skills, financial planning, marriage To have more gatherings of youths to strengthen bonds of friendship, to tap into their capacities to also assist one another Remarks Marriage workshop To organise marriage workshops 2x/year or look into more ways of studying book 12 with couples. Ideas on having a marriage workshop for those planning to embark on marriage are possible ideas to be explored
Page 26 TRANSFERS Below are the community members who have transferred in and out of Kuala Lumpur between Riḍván 2023 and Riḍván 2024 Transfers in Thatchaayanie Renganathan Kayla Hei Tong Chan Sayshan Raj Kumar Nisha Gunasegaran Shirazshan Ratha Anisa Avadaiyar Sahanah Kathirvelu Mona Avadaiyar Asheera Moorthy Nabil Narayanasamy Felix Ong Eng Chooi Nantiya Ong Ho Vei Ven Elvira Anak Lettis Ahantha Shoghi Nurvin Ratha Roshen Perumal Rishan Maran Prashanth Kalippen Sukhvir Wei Sheng Singh Lilian Leong Lee Ming Reehana Ayne Rajamanickam Puvendraan Naidu Gunasegaran Teo Ik Hui Theeban Muniandy Liva Sreedharan Charmaine Nur Saniasi Brianna Koo Xue Ying Viknesvaran Paramasivan Thinavinothini Selvam Joseph Leong Annie Leong Chong Choi Choi Nitesh Nathaniel Tan Sue Yan Transfers out NEW DECLARANTS The Kuala Lumpur community warmly welcomes Dr Yogeeta Gunasagran, Darius Tang Wei Ling and Mrs Nalini Balakrishna and who have been lovingly accompanied on their journey towards Baha’u’llah. After a period of searching and accompaniment, they confirmed their belief in Baha'u'llah in April 2023, May 2023 and April 2024 respectively.
Page 27 MARRIAGES Several members of the community entered into matrimony between Riḍván 2023 and Riḍván 2024. The Assembly wishes to convey its heartiest congratulations to the following couples: Ms Mary Anne Rose Agudo Mortega and Mr Satchit Ananda Sivalinggam on 5/5/23 Ms Phedora William and Mr Rutstein Dajai on 11/11/23 Ms Ahanta Shoghi and Mr Prashanth Kalippen on 19/12/23
Page 28 Besides verifying the consent of the parents of the bride and groom, The Assembly made arrangements when possible to meet the couples, whether online or physically, to convey their well wishes and pray together with them to attract the Divine bounties that would bless their union. The Kuala Lumpur Baháʼí community is also blessed to have Mr Christopher Tham as the Baháʼí Assistant Registrar of Marriages (BARM) appointed by the government. The Assembly also conveys its appreciation to him for his time to conduct civil registrations when requested by the National Spiritual Assembly. Five couples who are not within the vicinity of Kuala Lumpur who received his services In 2023/24 include: Mr Thanesh and Ms Kalai Selvi (from Sepang) on 13/05/2023 Ms Satya Renganathan and Mr Aghilan Nadrajah (from Kajang) on 25/6/23 Ms Sabinah Sartho and Mr Mogan Raj (from Kajang) on 17/9/23 Ms Pushpa and Mr Nabil Das (from Subang) on 16/12/2023 Ms Yasvira and Mr Kishan Raj (from Sepang) on 24/02/2024 All of the civil registration were conducted at the Kuala Lumpur Baháʼí Centre which is the authorised registered premise. BIRTHS The Kuala Lumpur community is delighted to welcome two newborns and congratulates the parents and their families on this most joyous news. Matilda Yik Ke Roo who was born on 24 June 2023 (daughter of Joyce Low Sin Yee and Yik Yew Soon) Keegan Yong Chern Gan who was born on 19 July 2023 (son of Danny Yong Yee Ning and Kong Lee Chuan, and now the younger brother of Kaden Yong Chern Kai) “O Lord, my God! This is a child that hath spring from the loins of one of Thy servants to whom Thou hast granted a distinguished station in the Tablets of Thine irrevocable decree in the Books of Thy behest…”
Page 29 PIONEERS The Assembly is very delighted that two members of the community has risen to pioneer and heed the call of the Universal House of Justice. The family of these individuals surely will be under the bounty of the Beloved. The community which also has contributed to the growth and development of these individuals surely rejoice in their decision and we will pray for their success in their pioneering post. Mr Nitesh Nathaniel Giresh Kumar who left to Guyana on 27 February 2024 Ms Dylane Ho Yue Ting who is leaving to Brunei on 24 April 2024. IN MEMORIAM We pay tribute to the following members of the community who have winged their flight to their Beloved. Mr Bernard Wang Mr Bernard is the dear father of Marilyn, Michelle, Melissa and Kalidass, and the beloved husband of Lilian Tan. He was a loving man, full of positivity and possibilities. Bernard had lived his life with unwavering belief in prayer and trust in Baha'u'llah’s plans. His legacy of faith and compassion continues to inspire his wife and children. This joyful soul winged his flight on 27 May 2023.
Page 30 Mr Felix Ong Eng Chooi Mr Felix passed away at the age of 70, on 7 Nov 2023 leaving behind his loving wife Nantiya, children Nawruz, Felicity and daughter in law Zoe Ng. He was a loving and joyful man, and he brought cheer in any space he enters with his spirited humour and wittiness. He had a deep understanding of the faith and its principles. He was a man of quiet deeds and green fingers; horticulture being his hobby. When the house of worship in Battambang was being build and the garden being prepared, he personally went to that blessed spot, procured the necessary plants, and stayed almost a month tending and nurturing the garden. Mr Valu a/l Narayanan Mr Valu is the beloved father of Mr Rajamanickam and grandfather of Rushnen, Reehana and Ruhen, father in law of Patricia and great grandfather of Raeesha Afya Ruhen Abbas. Upon accepting the faith together with his wife in 1977, he actively served community building activities at Batu Bersawa Estate in Bahau and also became a homefront pioneer to Simpang Pertang. He was active in the institute process and later when battling cancer and even in ill health, he was passionate in praying with his grandchildren and encouraging them to memorise prayers. He passed away on 9 March 2024. Mr Lee Chin Hin @ Lee Chin Heng Mr Lee Chin Hin hailed from Teluk Intan with majority of his 14 siblings are believers in Baha'u'llah. Towards the end of his earthly plane, he sought to know more about God and the faith. He found peace and solace in saying Baháʼí prayers and subsequently declared his belief in the Blessed Beauty. He passed away a few months later on 5 April 2024 at the age of 76 reuniting with his beloved wife. He leaves behind his son Ban Hooi and daughter Zi Chieh. “O Thou Provider, O Thou Forgiver! A noble soul hath ascended unto the Kingdom of reality, and hastened from the mortal world of dust to the realm of everlasting glory. Exalt the station of this recently arrived guest, and attire this long-standing servant with a new and wondrous robe.”
Page 31 EXPANSION AND CONSOLIDATION CLUSTER AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT Educational Endeavors Statistics (Cycle 5-8 / May 2023 - April 2024 ) FoF = Friends of Faith PP: Participants Study Circle as of 15/4/2024 Junior Youth Group as of 7/4/2024
Page 32 Children’s Class as of 7/4/2024 Intensive Camp Study Circle Date : 24th & 25th Feb 2024 Venue : Jln Ara House
Page 33 On Going Study Circles
Page 34 Study Circle Completed from May 2023 - April 2024 Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program Intensive Camp Book : Drawing on the Power of Word Venue : Jln Ara House Date : 6,7,13 & 14 May 2023 Animators : Laavynia & Vidyakaran
Page 35 Book : Wellspring of Joy Venue : Cynthia's house Date : 27-30 May 2023 Age group : Mainly JY from Hiichiikok Foundation Animators : Sheila Thiruneelagandan & Cynthia Lee On Going Junior Youth Groups Junior Youth Book Completed from May 2023 - April 2024
Page 36 Children’s Class Children Class Camp Date : 30 - 31 March 2024 Venue : Meadow Park Condominium Grade : 3 Children : Monera, Nuy, Riona & Safa Teacher : Liva, Ranee, Zarrin On Going Children Class
“During this period, the Bahá’í world will be focused on a single aim: the release of the society-building power of the Faith in ever-greater measures. The pursuit of this overall aim will require a further rise in the capacity of the individual believer, the local community, and the institutions of the Faith. These three constant protagonists of the Plan each have a part to play, and each one has capacities and qualities that must be developed. However, each is incapable of manifesting its full potential on its own. It is by strengthening their dynamic relationships with one another that their powers are combined and multiplied.” The Universal House of Justice, from a message dated 30 December 2021 Page 37 KL Cluster Agency’s Plans For B.E 181 (Cycle 9-12) Cycles of Growth Report B.E 180 (Cycle 5-8)
Page 38 TREASURER’S REPORT Total Funds Total receipt for BE180 (Apr’23-Mar’24) amounted to RM412,589 (BE179: RM391,594); and this consists of Local Fund, National Fund, National Earmarked Fund and International Earmarked Fund. The total receipts increased by circa 5.4% or RM20,995 year-on-year mainly due to higher contributions by believers towards all the Funds and marginally higher number of average contributors per month. Please refer Appendix I attached for details of funds and purpose Local Fund
Page 39 Local Fund receipts totalled RM114,383 (BE179: RM101,052), representing a yearon-year increase of 13.2%, and this is mainly attributed to the overall higher contribution amounts by the believers. However, the average number of contributors per month remained somewhat unchanged as compared to the preceding year. National Fund Likewise, the National Fund also expanded by circa 24.7% year-on-year to RM193,968 (BE179: RM155,589). This is mainly due to the higher number of average contributors per month as well as the contribution amount.
Page 40 However, the National Earmarked Fund recorded circa 44.0% lower at RM16,926 (BE179: RM30,205) mainly due to completion of the National Haziratu’l-Quds, and hence contribution towards this Fund has reduced gradually. As depicted above, 97% of the total National Earmarked Fund of RM16,926 consist of Deputization Fund which is used for teaching purposes to support the Nine Year Plan and the growth of the Faith. International Earmarked Fund
Page 41 The International Earmarked Fund consists of the following: - 1.International Fund 2.Continental Fund 3.Continental Deputization Fund 4.World Endowment Fund 5.Temples Fund 6.Shrine of ʻAbdu'l-Bahá Fund Total International Earmarked Fund recorded a higher quantum in BE180 vs BE179 mainly due to the higher number of average contributors per month as well as higher contribution amount. The higher contribution amount was recorded mainly from Continental, International and Temples Funds as per the bar chart below.
Page 42 The composition of the International Earmarked Fund in BE180 is as follows: LSA Expenditure
The higher Centre rental expenses in BE180 was due to an increase in the Kuala Lumpur Baháʼí Centre rental with effect from January 2023. Rental was increased from RM2,500 to RM3,000; representing an increase of 20%. Other expenses of RM3,793 comprised LSA’s annual zoom subscription renewal (RM758), wreaths (RM1,389), burial set purchases (RM846) and assistant administrator allowance (RM800). On the other hand, Expansion & Consolidation of RM8,482 included expenses incurred for Holy Day & Gatherings (RM6,144), teaching (RM1,538) and sponsorship for ISGP Seminars (RM800). Centre maintenance of RM2,318 included Centre cleaning services (RM720), annual insurance premium for the Centre (RM519) and annual pest control services (RM840). Photostat/Postage is related to Unit Convention and Riḍván Election expenses. Page 43 Total expenses incurred by the LSA in BE180 stood at RM72,452 (BE179: RM121,594) as depicted in the above table. The higher expenditure in BE179 was mainly attributed to expenses incurred for organization of the worldwide conferences and Centre maintenance for repair of the water tank leakage but was subsequently nullified with an insurance claim. Composition of BE180 total expenditure is presented as per pie chart below:
In BE180, LSA’s contribution to the National Fund and International Fund amounted to RM40,000 and RM7,000 respectively which totals to RM47,000, an increase of 31% as compared to BE179. It is the LSA’s policy that besides the monthly fixed contribution, the LSA will remit additional contribution to the National Fund subject to maintaining the minimum cash reserve level for operating expenditure. Over the last 5 years, the LSA has contributed a total of RM233,500 to the following funds: - Page 44 LSA Contribution
Total number of Baha’i population seem to decrease from 316 in BE179 to 314 in BE180 mainly due to the data cleaning exercise carried out in BE180 whereby transfers and duplication records have been updated hence BE180 reflected a lower opening population base. In BE180, there were 16 believers transferred into KL Cluster with one since passed on whilst transfer out consist of 15 believers. In addition, there were also 3 new declarants hence the net increase in the Baháʼí population should read as 3. Averagely 31% (96 believers) of the Baháʼí population has contributed to the Funds in BE180, lower by 6% as compared to BE179 (118 believers). Contributors to the Funds in BE180 on average per month, comprise 75 adults, 9 young adults, 3 JY & youth and 9 children. It is noted that the higher number of contributors recorded in BE179 was mainly due to the worldwide conferences that were held at Kuala Lumpur’s respective sectors, where a large turnout witnessed many friends being inspired, and resultingly contributed to the Funds as their spiritual obligation. However, if compared to BE178 which recorded a total of 84 believers who contributed to the Funds, BE180 recorded a higher number of contributors than BE178 by 14%. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ “We must be like the fountain or spring that is continually emptying itself of all that it has and is continually being refilled from an invisible source. To be continually giving out for the good of our fellows undeterred by fear of poverty and reliant on the unfailing bounty of the Source of all wealth and all good – this is the secret of right living.” – Shoghi Effendi Page 45 Fund Contribution Demography
Page 46
Page 47 Appendix
Page 48 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Local Spiritual Assembly would like to express its appreciation to the following people for their sacrifice and services: Members of the Cluster Agency, including the Coordinators and the Area Teaching Committee members who served with full vigour and enthusiasm Members of the Sector Task Force, who had served tirelessly throughout the year Members of the Twin Holy Days Taskforce, Ms Marilyn Wang, Ms Cynthia Lee, Ms Saffurah Chinniah, Mr Narendran Narasiah, Ms Sangeetha Pragasam, who prepared a joyous and befitting programme involving the whole community Members of the upcoming Riḍván Celebrations Task Force (B.E. 181.) Ms Lum Pek Lynn and Mr Jason Wong who served as the Local Assurance Team whom completed the assurance exercise on the Local Spiritual Assembly’s Treasury Fund Report The Assistant Treasurers in each sector who assisted the Local Treasurer Ms Ho Yuet Mee and Mr Venugopal Nambiar who provided their home in Jalan Ara to be used for community building activities and the 4 core activities Dato. Dr. Alex Matthews, Ms Ho Yuet Mee, Mr Kumar Singaraveloo, Mr Guna Segar Ramasamy and Mr Arul Nathan who contributed towards the memorial for Dato. Dr Singaraveloo Mr Arul Nathan, Deputee Trustee of Huququ'llah who conducted the study on Ḥuqúqu'lláh Mr Jayagopan Ramasamy who facilitated the study of the 28 November 2023 message of the Universal House of Justice. Members of the community who took part in external affairs and IFTAR event Counsellor Nicholas Loh and ABM Yip Siew Ha and her assistants who also encouraged and guided the community on the plans of the Faith Ms Kayla Hei Tong Chan who served as an assistant to the secretariat for the Assembly Members of the community who volunteered for the Opening of the National Haziratu’l-Quds and the watering of the plants, as well as painting of the BPT Ms Dylane Ho who served with dedication as the Secretary of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Kuala Lumpur till Oct 2023