This year’s AGM was a meaningful gathering, even though we did not meet the required quorum to proceed with the proposed constitutional changes. Nonetheless, the session went ahead with the official agenda and gave us much to reflect on as a community.
The President opened the AGM with an honest and heartfelt speech. She spoke candidly about the doubts she faced in discharging her responsibilities—and the courage it took to step forward anyway. She outlined three key pillars of focus for the year ahead:
- Community Building
- Education and Advocacy
- Outreach and Engagement
Drawing from the history of the Humanist Society (Singapore), she reminded us that HSS was itself a movement born from a movement—emerging from the aftermath of the AWARE saga. In her words, “Relevance is not inherited—it is created.” Quoting diplomat Bilahari Kausikan, she emphasized:
“Small city-states have no intrinsic relevance to the workings of the international system. Relevance is an artefact, created by human endeavour, and having been created, must be maintained by human endeavour.”
She urged members to think beyond waiting for the next ‘saga’ to define us, and instead, take deliberate steps to shape our relevance in today’s context.
“HSS is a movement born from a movement—a community that emerged from a transformative period and now has the power to shape its own future. We must ask ourselves: What is our story now?”
Following the President’s opening address, the AGM proceeded with the official agenda:
- ✅ Confirmation of the Minutes from the 2024 AGM
- 🗓️ Summary of Events and Activities in 2024 — a year marked by thought-provoking Conversations on Humanism, successful Secular Assemblies, community socials, and impactful outreach initiatives
- 💰 Adoption of the Auditor and Treasurer’s Reports, affirming the Society’s financial health and transparency
🗳️ The election of the Executive Committee for 2025/2026 was conducted smoothly, along with the appointment of Honorary Auditors. Congratulations to the newly elected EXCO members—we look forward to their leadership in the coming year!
Members were also briefed on ongoing key programmes such as the Secular Assembly and Conversations on Humanism series, followed by a preview of major events planned from March 2025 onwards.
The floor was then opened for items submitted by members, followed by an engaging and generous Q&A session, allowing for open discussion and feedback.
The old guards of HSS came to give their support.
