APEX CLUB OF PENANG, MALAYSIA. CLUB NO.8 SINCE 1971: May 2013

Memorandum of Understanding between the Apex Club of Murraylands, South Australia and Apex Club of Penang, Malaysia.

Purpose

This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is to provide a framework and arrangements
between the Apex Club of the Murraylands and the Apex Club of Penang to facilitate
an open, collaborative and mutually beneficial relationship between the two clubs.

Background
The idea of establishing a sister club relationship was raised by Life Member Rob Butcher, Apex Club of Murraylands and Apex Club of Penang in the hope that club members can further develop relationships and life skills. It will also benefit members to view the service projects undertaken in each other country.
The Apex Club of Murraylands, Australia is a based between the two towns of Murray Bridge and Mannum located along the Murray River in South Australia. Whilst the club numbers fluctuate, the structure of the club remains the same with a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and various other directors such as Social, Service and Properties being elected at the beginning of each 12 month period. The club is involved with various service projects including cooking community barbeques, donating money, and supporting youth potential.

The Apex Club of Penang, Club No. 8, is in Penang Island, West Malaysia. Penang Island was once known as The Pearl of The Orient. Apex Penang which was set up in 1971 had been contributing over 40 years of community and charitable services. Helming the Club is the President. A new President is elected at every AGM with the Club’s Secretary and Treasurer. The President appoints his other Board members, comprising: Vice President, Service Director, Social Director, IRO, Bursary Director, Membership Director, and Sergeant-At-Arms, to assist him in his duties. Apex Penang has in 2011 set up its Apex Penang Education Fund to assist deserving undergraduates in universities and colleges in Malaysia.
Communication

Both clubs will distribute their respective newsletters and Dinner meeting notices to ensure that communication lines are open and transparent.
Whilst members from both Clubs can informally interact through the electronic media, an annual Skype hook up, if deemed necessary, be done for newly elected Boards to exchange ideas and plans for the new term.

Financial agreement
Whilst there is no annual financial contribution required, when club members travel to each other’s respective country the accommodation will be paid for by the hosting club. The accommodation may be either home hosted by the club members or hotel style ( for within reason) if hosting is not possible. The travelling members will only need to pay for air fares and have their own spending money.
The hosting Club members shall treat the travelling members to a welcoming dinner, which shall be planned to coincide with brought forward dinner meeting to show the business session as practiced. Meals at other outings shall be from own spending money unless the hosting club volunteers to foot such expenses.
The hosting Club shall arrange an itinerary for the whole stay to include the local Apex Club’s projects, introduce places of interest, local customs, food and lifestyle. Tour packages outside of itinerary can be arranged for travelling members at their own expense.

Outcomes
It is hoped that when members travel to each other’s countries they acknowledge the following:
* Respect for the culture
* Seek an understanding of each other service projects
* Gain an appreciation for each other’s way of life
* Further develop relationships

Signatories

Apex Club of Murraylands, Caroline Thomas Vice President, Michelle Chambers

Apex Club of Penang, Edward Mai