World’s Greatest Meal – Deepavali 2024: Dining Together to End Polio
- Petri Karjalainen
- Nov 24, 2024
- 2 min read
On 24th November 2024, the festive spirit of Deepavali in Penang carried an even deeper meaning. That evening, Rotarians, families, and friends came together not just to share a meal but to join a global fight — the fight to end polio.
The Rotary Club of Tanjong Bungah, together with five other Rotary Clubs in Penang, proudly hosted World’s Greatest Meal (WGM), part of a worldwide initiative in support of End Polio Now, Rotary International’s flagship campaign to eradicate polio once and for all.
A Meal with Purpose
The event was more than a dinner — it was a statement of solidarity. Guests were reminded that while polio has been eliminated in much of the world, the battle is not over. The disease still threatens communities, and Rotary remains at the forefront through the PolioPlus program, providing vaccines, education, and support where it’s needed most.
Through this joyful Deepavali gathering, participants helped raise both awareness and funds, ensuring Penang’s voice was heard in this global movement.
The Impact in Numbers
Funds Raised: RM 3,060 (USD 690) contributed to Rotary’s PolioPlus Fund.
Volunteers: 47 Rotarians and friends of Rotary dedicated their time and energy.
Total Volunteer Hours: 141 hours in service of a world without polio.
Though modest in size compared to international campaigns, every contribution matters. Each meal shared, each ringgit raised, brings us one step closer to eradicating this crippling disease.
United in Service
The event highlighted the power of partnership, with six Rotary Clubs working together:
Rotary Club of Tanjong Bungah
Rotary Club of Butterworth
Rotary Club of Penang
Rotary Club of Penang Strait
Rotary Club of Georgetown
Rotary Club of Bukit Bendera
By uniting across the island, these clubs amplified their impact, reminding us that when Rotary members collaborate, communities — and the world — benefit.
✨ The World’s Greatest Meal proves that even something as simple as sharing dinner can transform into a force for global good. Together, one meal at a time, we move closer to making polio history.
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