Introduction to Kiwanis

1. Historical Development of KIWANIS Worldwide and in Malaysia

Kiwanis International was founded in 1915 by a group of businessmen in Detroit, Michigan, United States. The organization was originally called the Supreme Lodge Benevolent Order of Brothers, but changed its name to Kiwanis a year later.

The Kiwanis MOTTO is "Serving the Children of the World"

Its defining statement is:
"Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world, one child and one community at a time."

In Malaysia, Kiwanis was formed on 11 April 1976 through the pioneering initiative of the late Tan Sri Mohd Khir Johari, and hence he is fondly known as “Bapa Kiwanis” (Father of Kiwanis). Tan Sri Khir Johari was the Charter President of the Kiwanis Club of Kuala Lumpur. Kiwanis Malaysia achieved its District-in-Formation status in October, 2000 and subsequently was officially conferred District status on February 1st, 2003.

Watch the videos below for more information:

Short Introduction to Kiwanis

This is an approximate one-minute introduction to Kiwanis in an animated format.

Kiwanis Malaysia

This is a 7-Minute video that gives a good overview of Kiwanis Malaysia.

What is Kiwanis

This is a 1:33 length video created by Kiwanis Club of Tampa, USA. Listen in to the different perspectives!

Quiz Time

2. Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

 By the end of this session, you will be able to:

 1.      Identify the historical development of KIWANIS, worldwide and in Malaysia

2.      Assess the roles and responsibilities of a KIWANIS Center

3.      Explain the Six Objects of KIWANIS