25 Nov 2025
By ~ Merlin A. Gasper

Orange The World: 10,000 Steps of Hope


Orange The World: 10,000 Steps of Hope
Relay Walk & Awareness Evening – 25 November 2025
Lava Mansion, Penang
Organised by Inner Wheel Club Pearl of the Orient, Penang

The Inner Wheel Club Pearl of the Orient, Penang reflects with deep gratitude on the successful and meaningful Orange The World: 10,000 Steps of Hope Relay Walk & Awareness Evening held on 25th November 2025 at Lava Mansion, Penang.
The evening brought together 44 participants — Inner Wheel members from Penang, Ipoh East, and Pearl of the Orient, along with family and friends — in a beautiful show of unity. Together, they gathered to launch Orange The World 2025 in a spirit of solidarity, compassion, and shared purpose.

Opening & Inspirational Messages
The programme began with a warm and heartfelt welcome by Organising Chairman, Merlin Gasper, who shared her inspiration behind the event — that every step represents awareness, courage, healing, and hope for those affected by domestic violence. She also invited the ladies present to learn more about Inner Wheel and its initiatives, with the hope of inspiring greater interest, participation, and service in the community.
This was followed by meaningful speeches from our Club President, Dr. Janet Lim, and District Chairman, Mdm Jillian Estrop. District Chairman Jillian expressed her sincere appreciation for the Club’s dedication, commitment, and spirit in championing the 16 Days of Activism.
She then officially flagged off the 10,000 Steps of Hope Relay Walk.
The 10,000 Steps Walk – A Walk of Resilience
The walk began joyfully in the garden area. The rain paused just long enough for participants to complete one full symbolic round on the field together. When the rain returned, the relay continued indoors with the warm support and flexibility of the restaurant venue, allowing the walk to carry on uninterrupted. Despite the weather, the atmosphere remained filled with smiles, positive energy, unity, and determination — a true reflection of resilience in action.

Awareness Segment – Education That Empowers
A key highlight of the evening was the insightful and interactive awareness session by Lawyer Christine Khor from the Women’s Centre for Change (WCC) Penang. She shed light on the realities of domestic violence, emphasizing that men can also be victims, often silenced by stigma and societal expectations.
She also shared crucial support channels including:
• WCC Penang
• Talian Kasih 15999
• Emergency Line 999
The session was deeply impactful and enriched by thoughtful questions, open sharing, and heartfelt reflections from participants, creating a safe space for learning, empathy, and awareness.

Fellowship & Meaningful Connections
The evening continued with a delicious bento dinner, where warm conversations flowed naturally in small groups. Laughter, sharing, and connection filled the room, reinforcing the true spirit of Inner Wheel — friendship built on purpose, and service guided by compassion.

Closing & Call to Continue the Journey
To close the night, Merlin expressed her heartfelt thanks to everyone present for their support and participation. She shared her hope that the event had successfully raised awareness, touched hearts, and empowered participants to recognise and help those in need.
All were also warmly encouraged to join the upcoming:
📣 “Jangan Dok Diam” Solidarity Walk
📅 13 December 2025
Organised by PWDC, IWC Penang, IWC Butterworth & IWC Pearl of the Orient
In support of Ending Violence Against Women and Children

Final Reflection
Together, we walked with hope.
Together, we learned with purpose.
Together, we stood in unity — for safer homes and stronger communities.

With gratitude and commitment,
Inner Wheel Club Pearl of the Orient, Penang