Vegetarian Society Singapore AGM Reports a Remarkable 2009

Singapore, 20th March 2010: The Vegetarian Society (Singapore) held its 11th AGM today to an attendance of almost 50 and shared a promising vision for the future of the soceity.

Having held over 70 events during the year of 2009, the various collaborations and innovative endeavours that had been undertaken were highlighted at the AGM. From the International Day of Climate Change event at Hong Lim Park, to the 5 library talks, and the significant number of exhibition booths set up at various locations around Singapore, it was clear that the team of VSS volunteers had been extremely busy and unquestionably dedicated to the cause.

VSS Executive Director of Education, Mr Loh Yeow Nguan, made special mention of the library talks which covered various topics such as natural anti-aging methods and eating less meat, and revealed that plans are underway to increase the frequency of these talks in 2010 so that the society could reach out to more in the community. He was also especially proud of the Smoothie Workshops that have become a trademark of the VSS, and shared that they now practise a more hands-on approach by having multiple stations, each with a blender, so that participants can try their hand and literally enjoy the fruits of their labour.

VSS President, Dr George M Jacobs, meanwhile welcomed the overseas partners in attendance, such as Ms Ana Laura Rivarola Oneto, President of Paraguay Vegetarian Union, and also shared his bold vision to increase the membership of the society from the current 300 to 1,000 by year's end.

Mr Clarence Tan, Executive Director of Communications, elaborated plans to include a new Student Membership that would be offered free to full-time students for a three-year subscription. He explained that such a membership would remove barriers to entry for those interested but concerned by the financial cost - a typical issue for students.

After the pertinent matters had been discussed, there was time for a light-hearted moment and a bonding activity ensued with Mr Clarence Tan leading a short rendition of the song 'We Are The World' which was duly followed by a birthday song for Mr Lau Wen Jin, ardent volunteer and life member of the society, who coordinates the various exhibition booths set up by the VSS.

The Vegetarian Society (Singapore) is a non-profit, non-religious organisation formed in 1999, which is a member of the International Vegetarian Union. The society strives to build a more humane and harmonious world for everyone on the planet, including children and as well as fellow creatures.