Malaysia and Singapore Adventist Laypeople Explore Identity and Mission

The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Malaysia Union Mission (MAUM), through Adventist-Laymen’s Services and Industries (ASi), recently organized the region’s first two-country convention in Kuala Lumpur.

The event brought together 195 individuals from diverse backgrounds across Malaysia and Singapore from April 26 to 28. Attendees gathered to explore the depths of identity and mission within the context of faith in their marketplace.

The convention, themed “Identity,” delved into the significance of personal and collective identity in the context of faith and the mission of spreading the gospel. Keynote speakers, including It is Written media ministry president John Bradshaw and business leader Yew Lip Sin, shared insights throughout the event.

The meetings also assembled a lineup of distinguished leaders, including General Conference associate secretary Saw Samuel, MAUM president Abel Bana, and other directors from the regional Adventist organizations.

The convention began with a reflection on conversion and identity. Bradshaw’s personal testimony was a reminder of the transformative impact of realizing one’s actual identity. The subsequent sessions emphasized the importance of embracing the mission as God’s remnant people while avoiding distractions such as institutionalism and property ownership.

Another session emphasized the significance of demonstrating Christ’s compassion in ministry. The final session focused on the book of Romans, specifically the path from sin to sanctification through grace and obedience.

MAUM ASi David Fam and Bana also delivered informative and engaging addresses that enhanced the convention. Samuel reminded attendees that “witnessing is a lifestyle, not an event.” He added, “You cannot witness what you don’t have. You cannot share the value you don’t have.”

Another highlight was the launch of a unique initiative called “TwentySomething.” It seeks to mentor young adults, foster unity, and guide them in making sound decisions for Christ.

Presenting the charge at closing, Fam encouraged delegates to remain faithful to their mission and synergize their efforts, noting each ministry’s unique strengths. He celebrated what he called the success of the first conference, which organizers seek to repeat on an annual basis. Leaders also plan to organize more evangelistic and training programs in the coming months, he said.

Reflecting on the convention, one attendee said, “ASi is not just for professionals but for all laypeople passionate about participating in the church’s global mission.” She highlighted the impactful “mission spotlights,” where various ministries, including lesser-known personal initiatives, showcased their dedication to spreading the gospel. 

The MAUM ASi convention concluded with a sense of unity and purpose, organizers said. “Attendees have been inspired to continue their journey toward a shared heavenly goal.”

The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.