The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Kota Bharu has officially removed its 2025 president, Dr Wong Luk Yeong, following allegations of an extramarital affair that sparked a public storm on social media.
In a strongly worded statement released on Wednesday (27 August), the organisation confirmed that Dr Wong has been suspended with immediate effect. Leadership duties will now be taken over by Mr Tan Chee Kiam, who served as president in 2024.
JCI stressed that while the scandal involved a personal matter, the decision was made to safeguard the organisation’s integrity and uphold its principles.
JCI Reaffirms Its Values Amid Scandal
The statement made clear that any conduct conflicting with JCI’s mission and values would not be tolerated. It added that the leadership body would always apply the “strictest and most appropriate measures” against behaviour that goes against its ethical standards.
At the same time, JCI called on the public to stop targeting its official social media pages with attacks and malicious comments, describing such actions as harmful to volunteerism and the spirit of community service. Instead, it urged concerned parties to reach out to the former president for formal matters.
Despite the leadership crisis, JCI Kota Bharu reassured members and the public that its programmes, leadership training, and community projects will continue as scheduled. The chapter reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young people under the motto “Creating Value Through Action.”
Wider Fallout From the Doctor’s Alleged Affair
The scandal has not only drawn attention to the personal life of Dr Wong, a married physician, but also raised concerns about how public trust in community organisations can be shaken when leaders face ethical breaches.
Observers note that JCI’s swift action sends a strong message that personal misconduct, even outside official duties, can have professional consequences when it undermines credibility and reputation.
For now, all eyes are on how JCI Kota Bharu will navigate this transition and rebuild its image as it continues its mission of nurturing future leaders and fostering social responsibility.