Our History

History of The Girls' Brigade

The Girls' Brigade is an international and interdenominational Christian youth organisation. It was founded in 1893 in Dublin, Ireland.

Three names are linked to the beginning of the Girls' Brigade in Malaysia. They are Mrs Elsie Lyne, Miss Agnes Richards and Miss Joyce Lovell. Mrs. Elsie Lyne was then with Singapore YMCA where Mr. Lyne was then the Director of YMCA. Miss Agnes Richards was in Kulai - in charge of building up the Presbyterian work. Miss Joyce Lovell was also stationed in Kulai where she ministered to the community as a Christian nurse and midwife. These ladies were responsible for getting together other ladies from other denominations to share about the Girls' Brigade. As all of them came from England, Girls' Brigade materials and ideas were imported from London.
 

History of the 2nd Ipoh Company

The Girls' Brigade Malaysia-2nd Ipoh Company has a rich history that dates back to its official registration on 28th March 2011. The company was established through the dedicated efforts of Dr Wong Chow Lan and a task force in 2010, who worked tirelessly to set up the 2nd Ipoh Company when Wesley Methodist School Ipoh (WMSI) opened her rebranded outfit in January 2009. With the inaugural, 7 girls joined the 2nd Ipoh Company (a "Protem Company").

As the first captain of the 2nd Ipoh Company, Dr Wong Chow Lan played a pivotal role in its formation. She was also the new WMSI BK Teacher cum Protem GB Captain who left behind the 1st Ipoh Company which she had captained and grew to be the 2nd largest GB Coy by 2008. Her passion for nurturing young girls and empowering them through Christian values was the driving force behind the company's establishment.

In 2012, Dr Wong Chow Lan handed over the leadership of the 2nd Ipoh Company to Mdm Chan Lai Ping who has taken the company and the girls to a new level of achievement. Under her guidance, the company flourished and achieved several notable milestones. With God's help and grace, Mdm Chan Lai Ping spearheaded many first events that marked significant achievements for the company.

One of the key milestones was the first Enrolment Sunday, held in Wesley Methodist Church Ipoh. This event, which took place in the early years of the company, was an important occasion where new members were welcomed into the Girls' Brigade family. It served as a symbol of growth and community engagement for the 2nd Ipoh Company.

In 2011, Mdm Chan Lai Ping also attended the first Officers Training together with a band of new officers, providing an opportunity for officers within the company to enhance their skills and knowledge in the Brigade ministry. This training aimed to equip officers with the necessary tools to effectively guide and mentor the girls under their care. It fostered a strong sense of leadership and dedication within the 2nd Ipoh Company.

One of the most significant events that God has blessed 2nd Ipoh Company during Mdm Chan Lai Ping's leadership was the hosting of the first International Event, the Fonomarae, in 2015. This event brought together members from different countries, providing a platform for cultural exchange and fostering international friendships. The Fonomarae showcased the dedication and passion of the 2nd Ipoh Company in promoting unity and global understanding among girls.

Throughout its history, The Girls' Brigade Malaysia-2nd Ipoh Company has continued to grow and thrive under the leadership of dedicated individuals. The company has remained committed to its mission of nurturing girls and young women, instilling values, and providing opportunities for personal development within a supportive Christian environment.

The 2nd Ipoh Company's journey, from its establishment in 2011 to the present day, serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication and passion of its leaders, officers, and members. Their efforts have shaped the company into a vibrant and dynamic community, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless girls and young women in Ipoh, Malaysia.