Official Club Membership Enquiry

[fabianyee]

Dear all,

This thread is designated for queries and suggestions regarding the official BMWClub Malaysia Membership.

Post your questions and suggestions here.

Thanks,

Fabian Yee



FAQ section:

Q: Where to obtain the application form?
A: Application form can be downloaded HERE (http://www.bmwclubmalaysia.com/forums/official-bmw-club-t9978.html?t=9978) or obtain from the committee members during official Club Event.

Q: Who to submit the application forms?
A: Completed application form to be submitted to the committee members assigned to collect membership registration form and membership fees:-
i) Registration Fee (RM150)
ii) Annual Fee (RM150)
A receipt with the official BMW Club chop will be issued for the payment of the membership fees.

Application form and cheque can also be mailed to the correspondence address stated in the application form.

Q: Do I need an introducer or a sponsor? Some club required this?
A: Introducer is currently not compulsory.

Q: If i don't register as Official Member of BMW Club Malaysia, can I still use the forum?
A: As a non-official BMW Club Malaysia member, you will still have access to the forum but only the non-restricted section.

Q: What are the benefits and priveleges of an official members?
A: Please read HERE (http://www.bmwclubmalaysia.com/forums/official-bmw-club-t9978.html?t=9978) for more details.

Q: Can the Club terminate any membership?
A: Taken from the Club constitution:

Article 10 : Termination and Expulsion
10.1 Any member wishing to terminate his membership in the Club must provide one (1) month’s written notice to the Secretary and settle all payments due to the Club

10.2 Any member who fails to comply with the Club’s Constitution or has acted in a manner to bring disrepute to the Club, may be expelled or suspended for any period of time as the Managing Committee deems fit. This shall be carried out via a formal notice to the relevant Member, who shall be given an opportunity to show cause why such action should not be taken. In any event, the Managing Committee shall retain its sole and absolute discretion to affirm or reverse its decision to expel or suspend the said Member.

10.3 Any person who has terminated his membership of the Club may subject to Article 6.1 of this Constitution be re-admitted as a Member of the Club.

[jsen]

is there any way, the membership fees ( annual) can be revised it down to an affordable amount.. eg. rm50?

wat are the upcomin events for such a high fees imposed?

thks man...

[XXX]

if not mistaken even the waja or gti club is around the range ...this is BMW we should be higher than them...even our cars cost more. We want this to be a prestigious club just like the car so when u say youre a member of the club you can have some sense of pride. The fee I would say is very reasonable, all the tips and savings u get from this site itself would already justify the fee.
On top of that when u join the stuff u will receive in the starter pack would already cost more or equivalent to what u have paid. As for events I dunno what this fee has got to do with it, bcos now free also the respond is bad just look at the insurance clinic and the christmas charity drive, but definetely there will be events organised but that doesnt mean all events are free, members pay special rate compared to non members, also certain events are members only.

[kelvinp]

if not mistaken even the waja or gti club is around the range ...this is BMW we should be higher than them...even our cars cost more. We want this to be a prestigious club just like the car so when u say youre a member of the club you can have some sense of pride. The fee I would say is very reasonable, all the tips and savings u get from this site itself would already justify the fee.
On top of that when u join the stuff u will receive in the starter pack would already cost more or equivalent to what u have paid. As for events I dunno what this fee has got to do with it, bcos now free also the respond is bad just look at the insurance clinic and the christmas charity drive, but definetely there will be events organised but that doesnt mean all events are free, members pay special rate compared to non members, also certain events are members only.

can i suggest something?
Well in my opinion, to get more registered members and current forum members to join and participate into this "registered club" and its events, i suggest the club to have a "physical office" to show its credibility and genuine responsibility towards its members and other upcoming sponsors or events alike. It will also cater to non-IT savvy and non-english speaking BMW drivers who wish to join the club.

Let it be a small room office or it can even be situated in an auto-accessory shop.
Of course, this will take up time and money, but it shows authenticity.

[ah lian]

no niid for "physical office" lar. who's going to man it? hire someone to sit there who day swat flies? no one will do it for less than rm500 wor per month wor. now, where got enough funds to do that? dun you wan dat money to be spent on club activities instead?

anyway, most registered clubs are all online registration or do it on mobile (during tt and other gatherings). anyone actually knows an (auto) club that has a permanent physical office? the most is an address for depositing the form (with payment) or a meeting room sponsored by the agent/marketing arm used for meetings of the committee.

authenticity? its all in the paper issued by the ROS. you dun trust the commitee isit?? ha ha ha ha ha!! sked they buy kacang puteh wid the membership fees ahh??:D :D :D

aiyoh, pelan pelan kayoh lor. lets get the existing forumers registered as members frst (quite a lot right??) and we can reach out to any others in due time...

[fabianyee]

can i suggest something?
Well in my opinion, to get more registered members and current forum members to join and participate into this "registered club" and its events, i suggest the club to have a "physical office" to show its credibility and genuine responsibility towards its members and other upcoming sponsors or events alike. It will also cater to non-IT savvy and non-english speaking BMW drivers who wish to join the club.

Let it be a small room office or it can even be situated in an auto-accessory shop.
Of course, this will take up time and money, but it shows authenticity.


There is a correspondence address which is required by the ROS and the address submitted to the ROS is our president's office in Kelana Square. However, this address can be changed later with a formal letter to the ROS to inform them of the change of address..

[safrul]

the annual fee rm150.... err...ok la...

but registration fee also rm150..... ?

[sesat88]

hehehe.. this sesat ah beng agree with ah lian. no need to have physical opis... waste of money. Normally, when a car enthuiast club begins, they will have a "big bang" gathering, be it mamak or a grand highclass profile event if can afford. This is for both for announcing club officiation plus a recruitment drive. It gives the members an opportunity to register on the spot and get to know one other. You can get the press to join as well to popularise the club... that's if they decide it's worthwhile and publish it. Mind you, they are the "VIPs" of the event. Maybe if budget permit, some banners would be nice and prob some reasonably high profile AB representive to be present for an impact.

Well, that my 2sens.... ;)

Cheerio.

[sesat88]

on the matter of reg and annual fees... RM300 for a start is very reasonable indeed.

There goes the changing of the covers of my front spot lights... for a couple of months at least... hehehehehehe

[GMENG]

I support the club's decision on the membership and one-time registration fees. It's reasonable. Keep it up EXCO.. :) Thnx.

[Vanquish]

if not mistaken even the waja or gti club is around the range ...this is BMW we should be higher than them...even our cars cost more. We want this to be a prestigious club just like the car so when u say youre a member of the club you can have some sense of pride. The fee I would say is very reasonable, all the tips and savings u get from this site itself would already justify the fee.
On top of that when u join the stuff u will receive in the starter pack would already cost more or equivalent to what u have paid. As for events I dunno what this fee has got to do with it, bcos now free also the respond is bad just look at the insurance clinic and the christmas charity drive, but definetely there will be events organised but that doesnt mean all events are free, members pay special rate compared to non members, also certain events are members only.

XXX,

I agree with your thoughts generally but we need to understand the fact that our current member demographic is made up of different level of income groups and background. Frankly, even you and I may view the value of RM 300.00 in different manner so we need to think about the masses here a little. One of the main grouses that I hear from members that I have shared the info with is why wasn't there any form of discussion / brainstorming on an open platform about joining/annual fees ? It's almost as if the committee got together and decided : "Hey, this is it - this is how much we're gonna charge so it's pretty much a take it or leave it scenario!"

I know that is hardly the truth and a lot thoughts/concerns/ views must have gone into the decision making process itself. The only trouble is most people may not know it and it's almost as if their thoughts and suggestion were not even asked for. The other thing that does bother me ... and perhaps even others here is if we're trying to play this game of "my club is more exclusive than yours" by pricing our joining/annual fees higher than the lesser (by the virtue of brand recognition) clubs. A sense of pride and belonging should not come purely from the fees that we pay to get ourselves into a club or community but rather from the non-tangible things such as the level of interaction, participation, unanimity, team-spirit and camaraderie that keeps us going even in the light of disagreement and discord in hard times. Surely, there must be a more cohesive set of reasons and justification for our fees to convince the prospective members that all this will be money well spent at the end of the day.

Regards,
VaN.

[kelvinp]

no niid for "physical office" lar. who's going to man it? hire someone to sit there who day swat flies? no one will do it for less than rm500 wor per month wor. now, where got enough funds to do that? dun you wan dat money to be spent on club activities instead?

anyway, most registered clubs are all online registration or do it on mobile (during tt and other gatherings). anyone actually knows an (auto) club that has a permanent physical office? the most is an address for depositing the form (with payment) or a meeting room sponsored by the agent/marketing arm used for meetings of the committee.

authenticity? its all in the paper issued by the ROS. you dun trust the commitee isit?? ha ha ha ha ha!! sked they buy kacang puteh wid the membership fees ahh??:D :D :D

aiyoh, pelan pelan kayoh lor. lets get the existing forumers registered as members frst (quite a lot right??) and we can reach out to any others in due time...

I guess you dont get the whole picture here. It's just my humble opinion and suggestion. If the club wants to do something right, it better be done properly right to achieve long-term stability.
We're talking about hundreds of ringgits here in order to jump-start as an offical BMW Club Member. When I say "aunthenticity", it means responsibility, reliability and integrity of the Club and not just a piece of paper u hang on the wall.

[fabianyee]

I guess you dont get the whole picture here. It's just my humble opinion and suggestion. If the club wants to do something right, it better be done properly right to achieve long-term stability.
We're talking about hundreds of ringgits here in order to jump-start as an offical BMW Club Member. When I say "aunthenticity", it means responsibility, reliability and integrity of the Club and not just a piece of paper u hang on the wall.

Like i had explained earlier, we have no plan yet to have an physical office. And we also do not want to 'tumpang' a place hastily as that can be another can of worm in the making as it could mean endorsing that premise whether it's a workshop or accesories shop. Not having a physical office does not mean the committee or the future committee any less responsible.

[kelvinp]

Like i had explained earlier, we have no plan yet to have an physical office. And we also do not want to 'tumpang' a place hastily as that can be another can of worm in the making as it could mean endorsing that premise whether it's a workshop or accesories shop. Not having a physical office does not mean the committee or the future committee any less responsible.

Look, i'm not doubting the responsibility of your committee, i'm just here to give a suggestion. Don't like it, then just drop it.

You as a committee member should take all suggestions under consideration and not just reject it with an arrogant excuse.

[fabianyee]

Look, i'm not doubting the responsibility of your committee, i'm just here to give a suggestion. Don't like it, then just drop it.

You as a committee member should take all suggestions under consideration and not just reject it with an arrogant excuse.

Pardon me but I don't think I sounded arrogant in my reply. I just stated the reasons in my first reply and explained further in my second reply after you asked again.

We have thought of some of the issues prior to them being brought up here like your suggestion. We have decided it's not neccessary to have a physical office for the time being. However, please don't feel offended if your suggestion was KIVed by the committee before you brought it up.

All suggestions would be taken into consideration.

[OSFlanker]

To be fair, enquiries and suggestions should be kept to something more immediate like some of the questions already posed regarding members benefits, how to sign up, etc. Suggestions on longer term issues such as bricks & mortar are too premature coz the club doesn't even have members yet! I feel these long term policy issues should be debated in a proper setting by members only as the club funds belong to them.

From my experiences, clubs & association take a long time to be stable financially to afford a club house, be it rented or purchased. I know one ex-pat association has been accumulating a building fund for the past 20 years!

As for the issue of fees, wasn't a poll conducted a couple of years ago on this? I could be wrong, can someone please step forward if one remembers such a poll.

[Vanquish]

As for the issue of fees, wasn't a poll conducted a couple of years ago on this? I could be wrong, can someone please step forward if one remembers such a poll.

OSF,
Thanks for highlighting that. If one was done, we need to publish the result of it atleast to clear the air and avoid any form of misconception. But let's be fair here - whatever poll or census of opinion done must be current and relevant since I'm quite sure a fair number of members have come and gone over the years.

Kelvin,
Yeah, the question of a building or office would be rather premature at this stage - not that the committee is rejecting the idea entirely but at this stage, our main priority would be the recruitment drive itself and building the membership base across the nation ideally. As they always say, there's a time and place for everything ... so let's start with some baby steps first before anything else, eh ?

Cheers,
VaN.

[OSFlanker]

OSF,
Thanks for highlighting that. If one was done, we need to publish the result of it atleast to clear the air and avoid any form of misconception. But let's be fair here - whatever poll or census of opinion done must be current and relevant since I'm quite sure a fair number of members have come and gone over the years.
...........

In principle you are right. But being in a over-legislated and over-regulated country, membership fees have to be stated in the club articles for submission to the ROS. This means the fees can only be amended in a members' general meeting.

I feel the amount set is reasonable. Let's face it, a club should be a body of persons whose aims and aspirations are similar, or at least in the same general space dimension. Clearly one who does not agree with the joining fees is one whom should review if this is the right club for one to join.

AROC charges RM120 a year and I feel it's value for money just for the one big event they hold every year i.e. the Grand Tour (mille miglia). Those choosing not to join AROC has an alternative in Italia Auto which is not a registered club but a forum based gathering. Both have their merits and many Alfa owners are members of both.

This illustrates that despite the presence of a non-paying "club", there are still people who chooses to pay to join a car club. I will leave it to the committee to enlighten members on the benefits of joining the club as it is not for me to speculate.

[Vanquish]

OSF,

I hear you, mate and I'm really not here to debate the logic behind the fees as set. I'm fine with the amount personally but then again, the club too is not made up by just you and me. Ultimately, it's the members who make or break any club for that matter and all I'm saying is that they too should be given an avenue to voice their opinions/feedback/etc. The ultimate decision whether to become an official club member or just remain as a part of the forum community alone is one that each of them will come to and make eventually.

Regards,
VaN.

[XXX]

What members? nobody has paid yet so practically we have none. We need to get people to join the club first and as this was the fee structure that was earlier
agreed upon and submitted to ROS, and only members can amend the fee structure in the next AGM as such there is nothing much we can do now. Until we have members and enough of it to set a quorum for voting purposes to elect the new committee, we can debate all we want and nothings gonna come out of it.So I say we do the membership drive, get the members, vote in the new committee and let the new committee work from there.

FYI once everything is in place the forum can only be viewed by members only, non members will only be allowed to certain sections.

[OSFlanker]

OSF,

I hear you, mate and I'm really not here to debate the logic behind the fees as set. I'm fine with the amount personally but then again, the club too is not made up by just you and me. Ultimately, it's the members who make or break any club for that matter and all I'm saying is that they too should be given an avenue to voice their opinions/feedback/etc. The ultimate decision whether to become an official club member or just remain as a part of the forum community alone is one that each of them will come to and make eventually.

Regards,
VaN.

Cool bro, I don't see it as a debate but an exchange of views for the benefit of those who wasn't around when the idea of a club was first mooted (a LONG LONG time ago once upon a time in another galaxy).

Currently there are 4,524 registered forummers out of which 1,238 are classed as "active", whatever that means. I doubt the committee expects even 50% of these to join as a member (though it would be a delightful surprise if it does happen), so I think the membership fees are set to attract the right people to the club who can live happily ever after with other. Well, at least not throw chairs at each other during every general meeting ;)

[MRsamdol]

A suggestion from me is to make a membership card something tangible like a magnetic strip card or better still a chip card, just for showing off purposes. If its within budget of course. For future use it can be used as discount card for sponsors or affliated retail shops and such.

...

[jarance]

A suggestion from me is to make a membership card something tangible like a magnetic strip card or better still a chip card, just for showing off purposes. If its within budget of course. For future use it can be used as discount card for sponsors or affliated retail shops and such.

...

That I think is a good idea.. However, chip card are quite expensive but normal credit card info with embrossed name or picture printed on the card would be cool.

[XXX]

Mr. Samdol your suggestion is something that we are doing maybe no magnetic strip or chip but the membership card can be used for discounts and special privelages when shown....we are in the midst of negotiating with merchants for the tie up.

[jarance]

Can we have something like this..

Sorry this is only a sugguestion.. photo edit work. a bit. I am sure it can be improved.

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/pbjy/BMW%20Club/Membercard.jpg

[535i]

Can we have something like this..

Sorry this is only a sugguestion.. photo edit work. a bit. I am sure it can be improved.

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/pbjy/BMW%20Club/Membercard.jpg

OMG .... :eek:

Unker - use laaa other faces ... :D

But point taken - I think this is a good approach to identify the club members.

[2cents]

The committee could of course make it as low cost and "value for money" as AAM benefits but then a little exclusivity for this club wouldn't harm either.

[Mtech30]

Dear Bros,

With all the discussion going on here, i believe what XXX said is correct that if there are no members, how could all these would have been implemented? As a head start i suggest a list of interested Bros with the initial Proposed Fee of Rm300, then we shall move on from there. I believe the committees would be kind enough to accommodate the relevant member's request for the better of the club.

Interested Official Club Members

1. Mtech30

[XXX]

Pls do not forget ur paying RM300 and also getting stuff worth that amount or more so for 1st year ur practically paying nothing.....but for RM300 worth of goodies.

[aermyn]

I think the fees set by the comittees (RM300.00) for registration and annual fees were fair enough. Rm150.00 registration fee for all the goodies is worth the value for money to member who registered it and the annual fee Rm150.00 for 12 months is RM12.50 per month (Rm0.42 cents per day). Please remember that the club needs funds to organised activities, events, charity drive and so on. If the club do not have the funds, so how could the club grow??? Do members need an unactive club ??? If all our the registered members are from Bandaraya (Klang Valley, JB, Penang, Ipoh, Kuantan and so on) I personally thinks they would not have any problem to pay up RM12.50 per month unless some of our members from outskirts (may be they need to consider it) We are not joining a Kancil Club and we are joining an Official BMW CLUB MALAYSIA. Driving a UDM

To Comittees Member, I also suggest that when members submit their registration, they also need to submit photograph and photo copy of I.C for verification to ROS (This a need for the Club)

To all the comittees, keep it Going !!!! Cheers !!!

[GT-E34]

Yes ,I argeed what you said ,this only official BMW CLUB MALAYSIA in our country support from BMW GERMAN AG.

[XXX]

aermyn & GTE34


thank you for the support as seen from a members point of view rather than the committee. As we are going from a cyberspace 'Club' to a real world club i think there would be alot of obstacles but it is with great hope that you the members can support it through and call it a club of your own.

[aermyn]

Sifu XXX,

Hopefully the club committees can set up an official Club meeting or TT section for those members need to be registered as BMW CLUB MALAYSIA member and so committees can proceed with the registration faster. We hope to have a good kick off by this coming 2007.......

Cheers for BMW Club Malaysia

[initialM]

Committee,

I dun know how to say this but sorry in advance.
What benefit for members outside Klang Valley?
Any difference of forummer and member?
Kat JB nih TT once every 2 weeks pun xramai yg datang.:p
Last TT pun xsampai 10 cars

[XXX]

InitialM

To me its just a sense of pride to being part of a club with such a prestigous brand.


Anyway the difference now is we are a real world club and not just another website as we are now registered with ROS. As members when you pay the fees you will of course receive its benefits. First and foremost you will have full access to the forum bcos if youre not a member you will only have minimal access. The money you pay for membership is used to organise bigger and better events, subsidise rate for hotel rooms or events (eg: Annual Dinner or Drives).Your membership card can also be recognised as a privelage card at certain merchants.

As for you being in JB i suppose the benefits that you will lose out would probably be the events that are held out of JB..but once a while u can take it as a drive to burn carbon. When you join as a member it doesnt mean you have to have full utilisation of it to be of benefit. For example when you join Lake club or Tropicana club there are Golfing, Swimming, Squash, bowling but you probably joined just for the Golf but you have to pay the same fees whether you use the other facilities or not, does that mean you are not getting your moneys worth? I even know of some people who join this clubs for "Bragging Rights" .

I remember when I joined the Official Ferrari F1 Club and paid abt Rm350, all I got was some merchandise which itself was worth more than the RM350, I could not join the events as it was mostly held in Europe but that didnt mean it was not worth it.

[initialM]

Bro XXX,

Dun get me wrong. I didn't ask about the fees.
In fact I dun mind paying if there's a previlages for a member.
What I'm concern is the participation of members in TT or whatsoever event.
Many owners dun hv the passion for the club just wanna lay back in front of PC only. Since now the club aredi official something must be done to improve this situation. If u r in JB then only u know what I meant.

Last time I joined Waja Motorsport Club WMC (unregistered) oso got many invitations.
They dun hv any website. Minimal charges but a lot of passion.

[aaron]

hey guys....can i have member# 4? and when n where to pay?
Also, may i suggest limited or no access to nonmembers.....but open up a classified section that non members can have access to for nominal token fee.(eg RM50 per yr)since it is always nice to browse for parts/assessories etc

[M30]

actually in my personal opinion the fee is quite resonable. The RM150 for the annual fee is actually quite ok(though i only paid RM50 for the Land Rover Owner Malaysia(LROM)).

[XXX]

Bro XXX,

Dun get me wrong. I didn't ask about the fees.
In fact I dun mind paying if there's a previlages for a member.
What I'm concern is the participation of members in TT or whatsoever event.
Many owners dun hv the passion for the club just wanna lay back in front of PC only. Since now the club aredi official something must be done to improve this situation. If u r in JB then only u know what I meant.

Last time I joined Waja Motorsport Club WMC (unregistered) oso got many invitations.
They dun hv any website. Minimal charges but a lot of passion.

Bro dont get me wrong too, my answer was a general one so that it would also
benefit as an explanation to the other members who reads it. I know what you mean even TT in KL also like that but hopefully with funds the club can move forward by organising more meetups and events for the benefit of the members. At the current moment we do not have funds to do anything so everything is done on a small scale. If with funds we can do long distance drive well planned ahead as we have the resources to make hotel bookings and what not and need not wait for the slow response of collecting money first bcos by the time we finish collecting the money the hotel may not be available anymore.

[aermyn]

Sifu XXX,

I personally think, member should thinks this way. WHAT can members do for the Club and not what are the benefit to get from the Club ? We join the club for TT, organise events, charity, meet more people, forum and all sort of UDM knowledge(this consider some benefit to us as a member) I think in return, member got all sort of benefits. Eg. Mon5oon Cup, A 1 race held in Malaysia etc.

I think that for outstation members like JB, Penang, Ipoh, Kuantan etc, we should have one representative from there as committee members so they can have their problems and view to point out. Committee later can also organise Monthly TT at outstation. But still the most important is how many will be the registered Club members.

InitialM bro,

Your bi-weekly TT at JB as you mention that only few members would come for the TT, may be some of them are working, family time etc. It also same in KL, you should create more attractive for the TT in your forum.

I apologize for any comments by me, i just proposed only.

Cheers !!!

[vladd_tappish]

My main question is when is the last day we can submit our application form and payment? I mean before the restriction of access to certain threads in the forum. Thank you.:confused:

[XXX]

the cut off date would most probably be 2 months from now.

[initialM]

Wa pun ada family. Hari2 kena pick up wife and kid coz ada satu keta jek.
Wa keja buat sales with the ISP busy jgn ckp balik rumah pun buka PC. I and wife memang org JB so ramai relative and banyak la event kena attend. Tapi wa make sure TT is my priority.

Robert lu tak payah tanya form la TT pun lu skrg kurang dtg.
XXX kalau dpt ramai member application pun tapi bila TT atau event takde respond pun tak guna. Wa tahu ramai forummer dari JB tapi takde passion utk club. Cuba tgk V-sixers atau GTI Club.

[XXX]

yah bila sudah ada duit buat event free secara besar besaran mesti banyak orang sampai, sekarang selalu mahu buat event mahu mintak duit dulu.

[okow]

This is with regards to the registration form:

Why do you need to know my RACE and RELIGION?

[fabianyee]

This is with regards to the registration form:

Why do you need to know my RACE and RELIGION?

It's to build a membership database and for easier reference. It's a common membership application template which we adapted for membership application form.

[okow]

It's to build a membership database and for easier reference. It's a common membership application template which we adapted for membership application form.

This is a car club, not a political party....there are no "special privileges" for certain races here hence it is unnecessary.

As for asking my RELIGION, that's personal, nobody's business to know except mine. So what if Im Hindu or Taoist?

We will be 50 years old come next year and dont you think that it is time for us not to segregate citizens of our country?

If I were to fill in a Govt departmental form or an application for a housing loan, although Im against it, I understand the need behind asking but for a car club???

I AM MALAYSIAN!

[XXX]

I suppose unker Okow has a point there. So what say the rest...its your club so please let your voice be heard.

[Wasabi]

The way I look at it, certain questions are just standard operating procedures of most forms. As an example, it may be useful to know race or religion simply because it allows certain special events to be organised if there are enough people of certain races.

E.g. if there are enough kadazan-dusun members from Sabah, the club committee may decide to organise a special event in conjunction to the harvest festival. Or enough Indian friends, they can consider organising a Mega Deepavali event.

I'm sure 'political-skewed' intentions are not in any of our minds. Makes sense?

From the commercial point of view, perhaps such information / database would come in handy if a product or sponsor were to launch a new product targeted towards chinese, they can make use of our database.

[okow]

The way I look at it, certain questions are just standard operating procedures of most forms. As an example, it may be useful to know race or religion simply because it allows certain special events to be organised if there are enough people of certain races.

E.g. if there are enough kadazan-dusun members from Sabah, the club committee may decide to organise a special event in conjunction to the harvest festival. Or enough Indian friends, they can consider organising a Mega Deepavali event.

I'm sure 'political-skewed' intentions are not in any of our minds. Makes sense?

From the commercial point of view, perhaps such information / database would come in handy if a product or sponsor were to launch a new product targeted towards chinese, they can make use of our database.

Although I do agree with your points to a certain degree, this is my take on this matter:
Questionaires from forms being "standard operating procedure" by nature and virtue of it being blindly copied and followed without question as to "why" "what's" needed as it may be relevant to some while not to others.

As to your post on database collection of different ethnic for reasons mentioned, my opinion is that we are all Malaysians, irrespective of race and faith. Hence, we should celebrate, target markets based on age, habits, disposable expenditure, etc...

How can we all bridge the gap of our differences which is so much more felt now than ever before due to certain quarters championing for race and religion instead of a race for the citizens of Malaysians as a whole.

As we accept this to be our country, we comform to live in harmony, "equality" and to survive. It would be very diffcult if we insist on being recognised based on our ethnicity and religion.

We have to move on as a Nation - Malaysia for Malaysians!

[jarance]

May I sugguest that the race and religion be left as it is in the application form and mark it as an optional item to be filled in. That way you can either filled it if you like or dont if you feel that it is irrevelant.

[bmwky]

May I sugguest that the race and religion be left as it is in the application form and mark it as an optional item to be filled in. That way you can either filled it if you like or dont if you feel that it is irrevelant.


agreed with jarance. this is the best. at least the members have a chocie to disclose these 'sensitive' information. The KEY word is CHOICE and the citizens of bolehland are seriously lacking of it in so many sapects of our lives.

[theCROW]

^^i agree with that too
anyway i think info about race/religion is much more needed bcoz of we are msians, a multi-racial country.

[2cents]

...as in religions of the world, ther shd b no compulsion, to fill in on the form -your race/ religion:-)

[fabianyee]

...as in religions of the world, ther shd b no compulsion, to fill in on the form -your race/ religion:-)

ur england a bit the powderful. a bit the confusing for the uninitiated..

Anyway, it was never meant to be discriminatory to begin with. It's just gathering information for the database. However, since there's been suggestion to not make them compulsory, you would have the choice to fill in the information.

[mini_jeff67]

Brothers & sisters, being multi-racial is one thing, but let's not forget that we are multi-religious as well... stating the religion will certtainly make it easier for the committee to organise things, especially where food and drinks are involved.

True, one may argue that just leave everything hala and that's the end of that, but what if, say, as an example, a beer company decides to do somthing with the club for oktoberfest? Then what? Do we go for it? I'm sure there'll be other events when such sensitivities come into play...

[initialM]

Brothers & sisters, being multi-racial is one thing, but let's not forget that we are multi-religious as well... stating the religion will certtainly make it easier for the committee to organise things, especially where food and drinks are involved.

True, one may argue that just leave everything hala and that's the end of that, but what if, say, as an example, a beer company decides to do somthing with the club for oktoberfest? Then what? Do we go for it? I'm sure there'll be other events when such sensitivities come into play...

Totally agree. How I suppose to wish Roland Singh and Robert Singh if I dun know what festival they are celebrating?:p
Lets not this be an issue. After all we r Malaysian drivin a German marque:D
Happy New Year!

[mini_jeff67]

Just a tot - what about members from East Malaysia? Full fees too?

[XXX]

this i something maybe we the committee need to discuss....but at the moment try reading my post on pg5....but the burning carbon part would be abit difficult for u though...:)

[Funk]

XXX,

I agree with your thoughts generally but we need to understand the fact that our current member demographic is made up of different level of income groups and background. Frankly, even you and I may view the value of RM 300.00 in different manner so we need to think about the masses here a little. One of the main grouses that I hear from members that I have shared the info with is why wasn't there any form of discussion / brainstorming on an open platform about joining/annual fees ? It's almost as if the committee got together and decided : "Hey, this is it - this is how much we're gonna charge so it's pretty much a take it or leave it scenario!"

I know that is hardly the truth and a lot thoughts/concerns/ views must have gone into the decision making process itself. The only trouble is most people may not know it and it's almost as if their thoughts and suggestion were not even asked for. The other thing that does bother me ... and perhaps even others here is if we're trying to play this game of "my club is more exclusive than yours" by pricing our joining/annual fees higher than the lesser (by the virtue of brand recognition) clubs. A sense of pride and belonging should not come purely from the fees that we pay to get ourselves into a club or community but rather from the non-tangible things such as the level of interaction, participation, unanimity, team-spirit and camaraderie that keeps us going even in the light of disagreement and discord in hard times. Surely, there must be a more cohesive set of reasons and justification for our fees to convince the prospective members that all this will be money well spent at the end of the day.

Regards,
VaN.

You've said it too. You da man 2. :cool:

BTW, I want to become a member too but I feel that the justification of fees of Rm150 +Rm150 is based "car status" etc is pure crap. I hope this is not the mentality of the club as a whole.

Some of you chaps know who I am and some of you know me in person. So please do not view me as fire-starter.

As a potential member, I truly like to see some benefits coming along the member's way.

[XXX]

Aiyoyo here we go again...Just One Simple Question Why is it some jeans can be bought at RM10 and why some jeans cost RM400...a jeans is a jeans can I go and tell the person selling the RM400 jeans that he is crazy and ask him how to justify the cost. There was a reason why that jeans was sold for RM400, maybe bcos to set a standard for that brand of jeans. So just like the setting of Clubs you got the Cheap Clubs you got the expensive Clubs bcos of different market segments.
Maybe one of the reason why this club started of with what it did is bcos it wanted to set a certain standard and as such it being an upmarket brand when the club organises some events it has also got to be of standard as well and you all know an event with standard does not come cheap. Dont forget all monies collected are for the clubs usage for organising events and what not for the benefit of its members and not for the enrichment of anybody, all accounts as u all know has to be audited since we are a registered club with ROS.

[Funk]

Hey Vin Diesel, no one is questioning the monies' beneficiary. No one is going to sue for RM300... (I hope).

Inadvertently, u have partially answer my question but of still pretty vague. It is not possible to collect monies from those participants if there is an event? Is there no benefits like er...urm... an appt workshop by the club that swears on his mother's grave that he will not overcharge or provide a satisfaction guranteed service for members... for example?

[XXX]

Collect Monies only when there is an event and waste opportunities and time.
Sometimes just to collect money can drag for weeks and months.

Eg. We want to book a hotel for a drive out of town we need to give them confirmation with X amount first to be able to get at a special rate but if we wait for months or weeks that opportunity would have gone.

And as for the workshop that swears on your mother's grave thats coming soon as we work on it...but we have to start some where as such we do the membership recruitment drive first....at the current moment we have been speaking to Sapura Auto but cannot disclose anything yet as it has not been finalised...

[ah lian]

got the workshop that swears on your mother's grave type of endorsement wannn ahhh?? oh. i dunno. anyone wan wanna recommend one for my tea trolley??

i think hor, gotta be careful abt such endorsement.... else the forum here gonna be super busy and the committee will be tied up fighting law suits from those dat have "great expectations". i heard dat the car club you are referring to is facing some of issues wid workshops they previously endorsed too.... maybe we can all learn something from dat car club oso.... to prevent similiar pitfalls.

[fabianyee]

There are not many authorised workshops for BMWs especially for new cars. endorsements for workshop is not something straightforward and we don't want to go hastily into it.

[okow]

When I posted that query, I wondered if I would be opening a "can of worms" to be debated on, on so called "sensitive" issues. Whose sensitivity, we may ask.
Then I thought, we at BCM are all matured adults (most anyway) and this shouldnt be an issue.

We now have posts from fellow members with their views and opinions and one of the reasons mentioned was that of organising events that might not be "halal", alcohol sensitivites, etc.....

Now, wouldnt that be better if we didnt know what our members are made up of (race) and belonged to (religion) except for the fact that "we are all BMW enthusiaist"...

...So, I'm Hindu and I will get offended if you served "Beef" during an event...or I am a vegetarian - for my religious reasons......do you care about my beliefs at all?

I like beer......you dont, you eat beef....I dont, I eat pork....you dont...so on and so forth...

That was exactly the reason I asked, "why do you want to know my race and religion"... if you are not going to be sensitive to my beliefs? If one of your reasons for asking is to better manage "sensitivities" then please be "sensitive" towards all races and religions!

Hmmm...that would be quite a task to manage, wouldnt it.

[tongsatriani]

Can payment be made via cheque or credit card?

[XXX]

Cheques will be the best medium, Transfers should be OK, Cash not safe (Not bcos we dont trust our treasurer but treasurer ownself scared kena rob..hehhe)...Errr....Credit Card in the future probably when we have a nice office situated inside our nice club hse...

[bimmer73]

All of you people make a lot of sense.

XXX I agree that we want the club to be prestiges and of no nonsense. Talking and/or exchanging ideas in the forums is a waste of time in my opinion if we want things to pick up. I suggest we not wait for the AGM to discuss this. Instead lets call for an EGM to discuss this issue and other matters that may arise and to answer all questions and clear all confussion and have them minuted for the benfit of the Club and the members.

[XXX]

Bimmer 73

Point Taken..we are indeed arranging for one soon probably at our next TT on the 12th...will keep all posted

[manjit]

mini_jeff....i thought the issue of race has been cleared out the air...we are all bangsa malaysia(correct me if i'm wrong)...still to organise activities or etc....wouldn't the religion itself spells out everything about us. Then what does the race column is meant for???

EXAMPLE:
Robert Tan Kim Fook; religion Buddhist....we know he's a chinese

Subramaniam; religion Hindu......we know he's an indian

Malik Noor; religion Islam.......we know he's a malay.


The name and the religion carries ample identification of an individual. Then why do we need the race column.

i remembered reading an article in The Star some times back by a tourist. Coincidently Malaysia is his second home. He himself have travelled around the world and had resided several countries before he came to Malaysia. One of his remark was that ; "Malaysia is the most racist country in the world, not that he sees racial discrimination, but of the need to know of one's race in every formal documentation and how they are identified. Apart from that, he mentioned that in his country, everybody are known acoording to their nation. Example; Robert Tan Kim Fook is from Australia, he's not a chinese but an Austaralian. TQVM

regards
manjit

[mini_jeff67]

Point noted, manjit, although I'd like to point up that Encik Mohamad Abdullah need not necessarily be a Malay... he can be chinese, indian, australian..., but I get what u mean.

Cheers.

[jarance]

what about Mohd. Ali aka Claysis Clay. Nationality: American, Religion:Islam and Race:???

Sometime name can be misleading. As mentioned earlier, the religion and race should be treated as an option to be filled in the application form.

[ALBundy]

Just to inform the forum members, most if not all the issues mentioned here have been carefully deliberated by the ex committee (now advisors) and present committee members, if I may say...extensively. Sometimes the discussion was pretty hot, but all for the sake of this club. We have taken into account of various scenarios, possibilities, potential backlash and what not.

Sometimes the best decision is an unpopular one, and vice versa.

We have to start somewhere, and all of us have reached a consensus and hence the procedures and etc posted in this forum. If we are going to have an EGM just to deliberate on this, the whole membership drive process will be delayed even further.

I'd suggest to those that are really concern about the fee structures, attend the AGM this year, table a motion to review the fee structure and put it to a vote.

Cheers.

[MRsamdol]

Anybody can be members right? no pre requisite? like owning a bmw? Can there be two type of membership? silver or gold members maybe, with different fees and privileges? This is to cater to some ppl who would like to join but are maybe just enthusiasts that don't own bimmers or just students driving parents cars but has love for the marque? I know there is intentions to make this a prestigious club but we must not neglect others who would be interested but not able to afford.

Just throwing out ideas hope it does not offend/

[ALBundy]

I think this is covered in the club's constitution which will be uploaded soon.

If the bimmer belongs to your spouse or parents, I believed that entitles the person to be a member.

However, on a personal note I do believe only real owners of the vehicle should be allowed to be members.

[fabianyee]

mini_jeff....i thought the issue of race has been cleared out the air...we are all bangsa malaysia(correct me if i'm wrong)...still to organise activities or etc....wouldn't the religion itself spells out everything about us. Then what does the race column is meant for???

EXAMPLE:
Robert Tan Kim Fook; religion Buddhist....we know he's a chinese

Subramaniam; religion Hindu......we know he's an indian

Malik Noor; religion Islam.......we know he's a malay.


The name and the religion carries ample identification of an individual. Then why do we need the race column.

i remembered reading an article in The Star some times back by a tourist. Coincidently Malaysia is his second home. He himself have travelled around the world and had resided several countries before he came to Malaysia. One of his remark was that ; "Malaysia is the most racist country in the world, not that he sees racial discrimination, but of the need to know of one's race in every formal documentation and how they are identified. Apart from that, he mentioned that in his country, everybody are known acoording to their nation. Example; Robert Tan Kim Fook is from Australia, he's not a chinese but an Austaralian. TQVM

regards
manjit

I guess individuals like me have gotten used to the system here and didn't find anything wrong with the template. However, from an organisation point of view, I see it as collecting information which may be useful for marketing purposes and maybe for event organising. We do not need to disclose the details but we need to know the demographics we have within the club.

[1+2=3]

before i comment, I have no objections to cost of membership, and I do believe it is reasonable. i'm pretty new to this forum, and also to bmw ownership, but i believe passion for bmw's should not take into account period of ownership.

If anything, my choice to be part of this forum, and finally to be part of this club, is my passion for the brand, and the cars and bikes that carry this brand. Similarly, I'm here also because I hope to meet like-minded people, and I have. To me, the club is a physical manisfestation of this passion for bmw and what it stands for that we all love and share.

I hope through this club, we can not only have an outlet for us to enjoy our bmw's, but to also learn more about them at the same time. From the history of the brand, to the specifics of each model, the technology, care for our bmw's...etc.
But most importantly to me, by being part of this club, we should also be ambasaddors for the brand. Promoting not only the benefits of the club, but the positive attributes of what makes us have a passion for bmws.

From some of the postings that I have read here, I'm concerned that there is a certain air of "elitism", "exclusivity", "special", "limited", just some of the words that come to mind. I think of all the attributes that bmw owners are "rumoured" to have that people hate the most, is the "I can afford an expensive bmw, can you?" attitude. To be honest, I have not seen that in anyone i've met from the club so far, but I do hope we don't end up like that. I also get the feeling that, "if you're not happy with whatever is offered, please go somewhere else". I also hope i'm wrong about this, because I feel the club is at a crucial point in its life right now, and it will need all the members it can attract rather than turn away people.

Are we forgetting that the club is about likeminded people, who have a passion for bmw's? no matter what race, religion, financial capacity...etc?

Like I said before, I have no problems with the fee's, and will be at MMZ this Friday to learn more about the future and direction of the club before I decide if the club is right for me. Also, I really appreciate the hardwork that the committee has put in to get the club to where it is today. I fully understand the difficulties and personal sacrifice they have faced. I also hope the club takes into consideration every single individual who is still at 2 minds about joining the club proper, me included.

cheers.

[aaron]

Well said.Race, religion,financial capacity is completely irrelevant.
Our common bond shd be a love and passion for the brand and what it stands for.
I am proud of my 13 year old BMW,altho i wd love to own a later model given the right circumstances.
I only hope that we allow admit members who dont actually own a BMW because i may one day dispose of my car before i get another.

[jarance]

before i comment, I have no objections to cost of membership, and I do believe it is reasonable. i'm pretty new to this forum, and also to bmw ownership, but i believe passion for bmw's should not take into account period of ownership.

If anything, my choice to be part of this forum, and finally to be part of this club, is my passion for the brand, and the cars and bikes that carry this brand. Similarly, I'm here also because I hope to meet like-minded people, and I have. To me, the club is a physical manisfestation of this passion for bmw and what it stands for that we all love and share.

I hope through this club, we can not only have an outlet for us to enjoy our bmw's, but to also learn more about them at the same time. From the history of the brand, to the specifics of each model, the technology, care for our bmw's...etc.
But most importantly to me, by being part of this club, we should also be ambasaddors for the brand. Promoting not only the benefits of the club, but the positive attributes of what makes us have a passion for bmws.

From some of the postings that I have read here, I'm concerned that there is a certain air of "elitism", "exclusivity", "special", "limited", just some of the words that come to mind. I think of all the attributes that bmw owners are "rumoured" to have that people hate the most, is the "I can afford an expensive bmw, can you?" attitude. To be honest, I have not seen that in anyone i've met from the club so far, but I do hope we don't end up like that. I also get the feeling that, "if you're not happy with whatever is offered, please go somewhere else". I also hope i'm wrong about this, because I feel the club is at a crucial point in its life right now, and it will need all the members it can attract rather than turn away people.

Are we forgetting that the club is about likeminded people, who have a passion for bmw's? no matter what race, religion, financial capacity...etc?

Like I said before, I have no problems with the fee's, and will be at MMZ this Friday to learn more about the future and direction of the club before I decide if the club is right for me. Also, I really appreciate the hardwork that the committee has put in to get the club to where it is today. I fully understand the difficulties and personal sacrifice they have faced. I also hope the club takes into consideration every single individual who is still at 2 minds about joining the club proper, me included.

cheers.

1+2=3, Thank you!!! I salute you.

Sometime we forget the purposes of setting this club and it good that we are remind of it once in a while. It the love and passion that we all have for the roundel. The club is not about the committee or the advisors but it is for the ppl who support it and want to take it to a greater height.

I sincercely hope that you and other who are hesistant would continue to support the club.

FYI, all the sugguestions posted by all the forummers are taken into consideration and delibrated at lenght by the committees. However, it is sad to say that some suggestions could not be implement due to the by-law of the club contitution. However, we are still looking at way to overcome all the difficulties.

Anyway, thank you again for the support of your club. It is nothing without you all.

[MRsamdol]

Actually i do agree that only real owners of car should be members because at the end of the day it is BMW club and the fees is actually ok a bit on the high side but ok. Its just that i wish that we could accommodate all that is interested to join like enthusiasts and aspiring bmw owners who is not able to afford. Hopefully the committee would find a solution to this as i am sure this club aspires to be a community of like minded fellow enthusiasts not a stuck up elitist club.

On another note since joining this club i have personally tried to recruit members to join this club and quite a few have even joined this forum but were put off by the ppl here maybe they do not know net etiquette and general forum rules but my friends were harassed to introduce themselves or even asked rudely to use search functions when they tried to search for info by posting questions in a new thread i was a bit embarrassed but i have defended this forum by saying that there is rules and regulations to follow. Mind you that my friends or clients which i tried to introduce here were an eclectic bunch ranging from CEO's to anak orang kaya driving from e60's to e30's but all were put off except one or two who might just be lurkers and not join in actively.

I have now stopped trying to introduce ppl to this forum since i asked a close friend of mine mid year 2006 to join and he was totally turned off by the political undertones in this forum and due to the misfortune of some misunderstanding and the general e46 bashing that prevails here.. the name callings and childish remarks were too much for my friend... i know some will try to deny this and i do not wish to continue such time wasting debate... so now i just refer ppl to join somewhere else.

I still like this club and i regularly join in the forums and the new friends i made here make me believe that this club has the potential to succeed. I believe all the misunderstanding that happened abovementioned were regrettable and were indeed not intended.

Now that this club has been given ROS status i hope that bmw club malaysia will continue to grow further and i hope the committee who i am sure is working very hard right now to make this club a success knows that what makes a club any club is the members.

Pelan pelan kayuh...

Regards

[XXX]

mr.samdol

there is nothing to deny abt what you just posted...eventhough we are adults
we are still kids very old kids that is...just like toys, we are still playing with toys but different type of toys....so what happens when kids get together? some argue, some fight, some cry but tomorrow they start playing again ... thats natural as kids will be kids..:D

[omegaoracle]

fabian bro... membership #72 available ka?

[anakin]

If cannot pay RM300 dont drive BBBBBBBBMMMMMMMMWWWWWWWW.

I'm a lower class society, but I do drive BMW and I loved it so much...for me (only!)the fees is quiet high(even cannot afford for new tyres, always 2ndhand ones )....and maybe..just maybe, I won't able to register, at least at this moment...but my dear baron, I won't complaining.....rules is rules..just hope comitees can figure out something like instalment plan or anything...and all of us will be a pround member of BMC......:)

[jarance]

Installment plan. sound reasonable.. will bring it up to the committes attention

[harry6potter]

Installment plan. sound reasonable.. will bring it up to the committes attention

Reasonable?

Courts Mammoth got installment, now BMW Club Malaysia also jump onto the bandwagon... of laughing stock. Never say never. Very disappointing, i must say.

The only way the installment plan should work is you pay RM25 per month for 12 months in 2007. The membership will commence in 2008 after all the dues have been settled. Now that is what I call reasonable.

[jarance]

Reasonable?

Courts Mammoth got installment, now BMW Club Malaysia also jump onto the bandwagon... of laughing stock. Never say never. Very disappointing, i must say.

The only way the installment plan should work is you pay RM25 per month for 12 months in 2007. The membership will commence in 2008 after all the dues have been settled. Now that is what I call reasonable.

yalor.. but what to do? PPl sugguest and we try to consider the practicality. It maybe difficult or disappointing to some. Just like credit payment as enquired by some. We cannot implement it cos the volume is too small unlike a retailer who handed about 100 to 1000 transcations a day.

but whatever the enquiry, we try to keep an open mind about it..

[ah lian]

wahhh.... i like!!! got installment!!!
got buy one free one or not ahhh....??? hubby pay for membership, wife oso get for free lar.... then can support bmw club activities together-gether maaaa.... the more the merrier?? **lol**

[jarance]

ah lian, membership is for the individual. but wifey & hubby are welcome and encourage to join all activities. but only registered members can vote or stand for election.

[sithwarrior]

dude, this is not about affordability. Anyone can put any figures but the question is why? Whats the reasons behind it.
Maybe should put it this way so look less scary :D

Club Membership: Rm150(goodies)+Rm150(reg.)

Crow thanks for your understanding. Yes perhaps if we put it that way, it would look better. Honestly we the committee members have sat down and dileberated over the price for the past few months. After giving it serious consideration we decided RM 150 will be for the registration and RM 150 is for the yearly subscribtion. The registration is a one time payment and the yearly subscibtion is err well... a yearly subscribtion lah....

[anakin]

Reasonable?

Courts Mammoth got installment, now BMW Club Malaysia also jump onto the bandwagon... of laughing stock. Never say never. Very disappointing, i must say.

The only way the installment plan should work is you pay RM25 per month for 12 months in 2007. The membership will commence in 2008 after all the dues have been settled. Now that is what I call reasonable.

What I mean with 'installment plan' is not like Court Mammoth ones..cmon guy..dengar dulu....say one must pay registration fees RM150 upfront and RM75 x 2 for the subsequent months...not too bad isn't it....(but if you're driving an E90 but still require installment plan for membership...itu memang gila!)

And if you're rich enough to pay yearly fees up to 10 years in one shoot, go a head, nobody cares!! what I do care is for a poor guy like me, not a rich boy like most of you....

Well, just my opinion anyway.....:)

[redbaron]

i have read the other thread Mr1+2=3 aka Mr Gary and i dont think that u are that poor for start u have a car that has cubic capacity of 2800. to initialM i tak cakap poyo and i do attend tt and support the club. the only problem i see here is the isu of RM300.which RM150 for registration and RM150 anual subcription and then every year you only pay anual subscribtion .this amount is set not today or yesterday it was agreed during the first protem commeti meeting which was some years back with the attended member than summited to ROS. now the club is approve by ROS so what ever that has been summited has been approve so it can`t be change the only way to change the amount is pay now the amount that has been approve then come the next agm which is in 2yrs time get member to propose during the agm and then seconded by another member than the members can vote for this clause and then only the RN300 can bee reduce guys.so pay up start campaning now so come agm u guys can change anything.until that time the present commite deserved to run this club because this are the guys that started this club.for your info i am not rich to i drive only E28 and i will pay this amont is not rich or poor but wether you want or dont want guys.

[initialM]

To Redbaron,

Sorry bro for the poyo thing is just the general statement and i didn't mean that it's u didn't come to TT. I'm just supporting 1+2=3 that we must not discouraging other members by giving negative statement. Anyway I'm far in JB and do enjoy my stay in this forum. And oso knows a bunch of bmw owners here. In fact I did join few tt in KL when I'm in town. In fact I drove to KL purposely for grand TT 2006 but found not much activity for us coming all the way from JB spending RM300 to RM400. Anyway good to meet some members that u only know in cyberworld. To those who know me personally must know what type of person I am. Anyway why not drive to JB? HH on me:D

[MRsamdol]

That being said... i have an enquiry i have downloaded the form and would like to submit form/payment but i don't think i would want to go for the monthly meetup so how do i pass the form/payment?

Thanks

[sithwarrior]

That being said... i have an enquiry i have downloaded the form and would like to submit form/payment but i don't think i would want to go for the monthly meetup so how do i pass the form/payment?

Thanks

payment methods will be disclosed soon. We're in the midst of sorting a system out as we dont want any mess in the accounts... We do appologise for the delay..

[XXX]

Red Baron

just to correct you, AGM is to be carried out as soon as we have a certain amount of members but if it takes 2 years to get that amount than youre right..

[1+2=3]

hi red baron, you bring up good points.

actually.. my posting specifically states that we shouldn't be bringing up the issue of who is richer and who is poorer, because that goes against the whole idea of an enthusiasts club.

as for the cost of membership, its also not so much about affordability i think(my opionion only ah..!!) .. the main issue here is, "value for money". I think that also sums up bmw ownership. Many of use here definitely cannot afford a brand new RM280,000 bmw, but we still still take the leap and buy older models knowing very well that maintenance is very much higher than other cars because we see the value in the car, so that makes it worth it. So i believe, if the club communicates the value it can bring to potential members, I think the issue of the fees should not be an excuse. comments??

btw, the very fact i own a 2.8ltr car makes me poor la.. pay more road tax, pay more petrol, pay more engine oil...etc..etc.. ;)

[sithwarrior]

hi red baron, you bring up good points.

actually.. my posting specifically states that we shouldn't be bringing up the issue of who is richer and who is poorer, because that goes against the whole idea of an enthusiasts club.

as for the cost of membership, its also not so much about affordability i think(my opionion only ah..!!) .. the main issue here is, "value for money". I think that also sums up bmw ownership. Many of use here definitely cannot afford a brand new RM280,000 bmw, but we still still take the leap and buy older models knowing very well that maintenance is very much higher than other cars because we see the value in the car, so that makes it worth it. So i believe, if the club communicates the value it can bring to potential members, I think the issue of the fees should not be an excuse. comments??

btw, the very fact i own a 2.8ltr car makes me poor la.. pay more road tax, pay more petrol, pay more engine oil...etc..etc.. ;)

Gary, you do have valid points and just to fill you in a lil'bit, Value for money is what we want to offer our members as well. I mean with out our members we dont have a club as well. Also understand that it will take time for us to sort much out, as for now we will make sure we give the best we can for RM 300....

Put rally suspension lah bro then we go play, how... hehehehe.. your one 2.8 wor with close to 280 newton meters of torque... very stim worrr.... :D

[XXX]

Ok as far as the carrot dangling part I would say the club has not dangled it yet as you see we not yet get the carrot bcos got no fertiliser and bcos everybody still debating which fertiliser to buy..but rest assured when we get the fertiliser its going to be a 20 Carat Carrot.

Currently BMWCM cant promise heaven and earth yet as it needs funds to move but all I can say is that once thats in, BMWCM's mission is to give the members their moneys worth, currently you dont need to pay a cent and you are enjoying yourself, what more when BMWCM has funds to do things that could make that experience better. Any club you join has its risk its just like buying shares in the stock market you hope for the best and that is as much BMWCM can afford to say right now, it will definetely in its ability to give its best to its members.

[1+2=3]

Another way to look at this is, if we really believe in the cause of an official club(us, the non-members, not you committee guys, as you already show you are all for the cause), we can decide to take a chance, and join the club, even without knowing what we are really getting ourselves into, except that its a club that represents our passion for bmw's, run and participated by likeminded people. It's like joining a startup company, or buying shares of a newly listed company.. we do all that also, based on "future potential".

pay, join up, with the hope that we are helping to build the club, and make it great...one day in the future. If it really screws up, and doesnt deliver anything despite our best efforts as a member, dont join again next year. no one will blame you then.

[XXX]

1+2=3

my thoughts precisely....actually its you the members thats goin to make it happen..as its you who votes the office bearers to run this 'company' of yours..

[2cents]

Ok as far as the carrot dangling part I would say the club has not dangled it yet as you see we not yet get the carrot bcos got no fertiliser and bcos everybody still debating which fertiliser to buy..but rest assured when we get the fertiliser its going to be a 20 Carat Carrot.

Currently BMWCM cant promise heaven and earth yet as it needs funds to move but all I can say is that once thats in, BMWCM's mission is to give the members their moneys worth, currently you dont need to pay a cent and you are enjoying yourself, what more when BMWCM has funds to do things that could make that experience better. Any club you join has its risk its just like buying shares in the stock market you hope for the best and that is as much BMWCM can afford to say right now, it will definetely in its ability to give its best to its members.

I wouldn't go ther if i wer u, dude, the Securities Commission has requirements with very high standards of disclosure in the prospectus of what a listed company is to do with public money.
In my humble opinion, what may help is perhaps, an outline of how much is required to move the club to which direction(s) & in what estimated time frame, what r these goals, mission of the club & how will these goals b achieved, expressedly? -just my 2cents:)

[KL2DC]

Hey guys,

Been out of the loop the last month. Only now starting to get schooled on this whole membership thing.

You guys have my support of course wrt club dues and others. Please advise on overseas membership fee payment. Do you guys use paypal?

Wrt personal info. I looked at the application form and I must say that there is a lot of personal data/info solicited like NRIC number, race, religion etc. It looks like a credit card application!. Is this information entirely necessary? I understand you guys are building up a database for members but isn't name, correspondence address, contact information, BMW model etc enough? There is a risk and great responsibility on the part of the club organizers/management when managing so much unnecessary personal information.

For reference, BMW CCA doesn't ask half the info you guys are asking and they do fine wrt benefits disbursements, management, communication, events planning etc etc Their renewal form can be found here: http://www.bmwcca.org/members/AM/BMWCCA/Documents/printableRenewalform.pdf
https://www.bmwcca.org/members/AM/Template.cfm?Section=On_Line_Join&Template=/bmwcca/custompages/join/joinsection.cfm

Look, I don't have a problem with that but you guys might want to consider the issue to ensure the success of your membership drive.

Also you guys might want to revise the initial proposed sign-up package. Maybe if you set up the sign-up at a lower price point while keeping the annual membership dues where they are, it might be easier to stomach. There are plenty of dedicated members here who like to see the success of this club but either way you cut it RM300 or USD85 is a big hit, even for me. FYI, BMWCCA doesn't charge a sign up fee.

Speaking of benefits, what's the deal with the insurance coverage?

My take on it is if the organizers might consider starting slow first and then slowly build up the benefits and the subsequent membership dues.

[Iqlima]

RM300 for fee .......

Members who signed up would be entitled the following items and benefits:-
1) Starter pack worth more than RM150
- BMW Club Shirt - new design (for Members only)
- BMW Club Cap
- BMW Club Keychain
- BMW Club Number Plate Holders
- Insurance PA (RM75,000)
2) Member Privilege Price for participation fees for future club events.
3) Unrestricted access to the BMW Club Malaysia website.

I'm a person who spend at least 200 days from 365 days a year overseas.

I'm most likely to spend my time with my family rather than outing/TT.My two kids and my wife deserve more than others.

I've no interest on club event because obvious reason as above.

I've interest on technical discussion even I can say this forum have less than 10% DIY people.

I'm no interest on BMW mark whether on shirt,keychain or plate holder because I've a kidney at front of my 7. Sorry about sticker because I'm only allow roadtax sticker on my car.

Any alternative for just online member ??

[KL2DC]

To add on to my earlier rant...

Here's my take, and I gave it some thought.

First of all much credit to all the committee members who drew this up. I can see it is very well detailed, progressive and well executed.

I think right now, the main focus of the club organizers is to cement down the numbers good and strong. Shaking up the club to get serious feedback is a good start. Once you administer the membership base you can shop those figures around to supporting vendors, sponsors and ultimately, the support of the big kahuna themselves i.e. BMW Malaysia.

To get the numbers you might want to listen to folks and revise the price points. The membership dues seem alright for what you get, I know you guys have a lot of events and such and the administrations seem spot on but a little downward revision wouldn't hurt. In turn, when you can offer more for the annual dues, you can always revise it up but by that time, the whole machinery will be well oiled and running strong.

As per my last post, I think the sign up package is a little too ambitious/lavish. I see where you are getting at in equipping members with some basic amenitied and to shore up a sense of privelege/amenities etc but perhaps you can offer that package in tiers. I think someone brought that up. I don't think this move will be elitist, its a matter of choice. Some folks prefer to fly economy, some folks prefer to fly first class but they all end up at the same place, at the same time.

Again just my 2 cents. I too, like a lot of folks here would like to see this whole thing take off and you guys have my support. I think you've all done phenomenal footwork. Let's drive this whole thing home.

[andrewk]

Totally agree with KL2DC's comments. Some tiered membership structure could be considered to cater for different needs (and of course, entitled to different benefits). Like Iqlima said, perhaps a category for "internet" members with full access to the site, discounts from vendors/shops etc. but don't get MPP for club events. This way, the club can get the numbers required to bring in vendors/shops etc. and it caters for members that do not have time for TT/club events etc. etc.

Anyway, I'm sure the comm will as much as possible, take everyones view into consideration and have the club's interest at heart. I guess only time will tell if things take off or not. Nevertheless, the comm members have been doing a great job, and I know its not easy to manage a club, esp when you are working for free!!

Just my 2 cents...

[fabianyee]

Thank you all for the recent inputs. We are compiling it and putting them into the world's mightiest computer system and would be churning out the results soon. ;)

Seriously, we are taking into consideration on the feedbacks given here.

Thanks.

[Iqlima]

Thank you all for the recent inputs. We are compiling it and putting them into the world's mightiest computer system and would be churning out the results soon. ;)

Seriously, we are taking into consideration on the feedbacks given here.

Thanks.

the world's mightiest computer system : SGI

[scin]

Just a quick observation

1. committee has done an excellent job of the registration etc

2. RM 150.00 annual fee is a little steep, but still acceptable to most, taking into consideratioin the "goodies"

3. One time joining fee is too much

4. 2 levels of membership is advisable coz you need different strokes for different folks. Not every one wants to go for events. They just want to go online and an occaisional TT. But yet if they could have some limited privvies like the PA,some discounts and full access to the forum, I believe they would be willing to pay a lower membership fee.If and when they decide to attend events, they pay more than a "full" member would.

They may not even want the "goodies"

Maybe a "platinum/full" member displaying his card at an outlet would get 15% off and a "titanium/junior" member would only get 10%

The "full" members would receive more benefits and pay less (if at all) for major events.



This dual levels of membership and fees would help bring in the masses and the fence sitters... those who only want to be semi active and not pay too much to join yet have full access to the forum.

If you neglect this sector of potential members, you will most certanly not get the big numbers in your recruitment drive.


5. too much fuss has been made about the information gathering. I am sure the intent was not to stir shit. If you don't want to disclose that info, then don't! Simple as that.


6. I think the part about charging a premium because you want the club to be "prestigious" just like the car is pure rubbish. If people are signing up just because they feel that they have "made it" and are part of a prestigious community......WELL.....

I for one would not want to be part of club full of posers!


These are just my opinions for your consideration.Thank you.

[sithwarrior]

Scin,

What are you on about ? I understand your queries, but did you have to end it with a whine ? In any case I will bring this up with my fellow committee's ya.... take chill pill in the mean time.

Sith

[Funk]

I can see most are bringing up the same matter.

It would be easier on the comms if they are open about it and pledge something to be done.

Cheerio!

[KL2DC]

I can see most are bringing up the same matter.

It would be easier on the comms if they are open about it and pledge something to be done.

Cheerio!


I am confident that the comms are considering all feedback/constructive criticism. This is uncharted territory for the Club so a lot of hits and misses are expected. The most important thing is that everyone is going the same direction and is on the same page. Its ok to have differences in opinion and viewpoints (it's a democracy) but we must all band together.

Cheers

[scin]

Scin,

What are you on about ? I understand your queries, but did you have to end it with a whine ? In any case I will bring this up with my fellow committee's ya.... take chill pill in the mean time.

Sith



No, but it was just more fun that way...hehehe
I am always chilled ...
Basically, the point I was trying to make is....

I wouldn't want to be a part of a club of posers.
SO, if the fees are set at a premium in order to gain some aura of exclusivity and to make the members feel like they are somehow part of the higer echelon of society ( as someone suggested) , then I think that is not the right approach.

That's what I was on about with my whining and whinging..

BUT, as with everything that is posted here, this is purely IMHO only and not meant to personally attack, ridicule or belittle in any way whatsoever the efforts of the comm. whom I feel have done a brilliant job thus far.

[XXX]

aiyoyo RM150 for life and RM150 annually very exclusive meh?...

[rifhamdi]

aiyoyo RM150 for life and RM150 annually very exclusive meh?...

well.... some of us here tend to think so... as somebody did mention. like wise this statement "RM300 also cannot fork out, then you should not drive a BMW!"

i concur with scin!

btw,.... RM300 is a lot of money for me. not interested in the activities because am always working but would like to access website and to attend TT occasionally.

cheers:)

[XXX]

ok lets put it this way, tropicana club the joining fee is RM25000 can you say I only want to use the swimming pool can pay Rm5000 only bcos I dont have time to play golf.
As it was mention earlier fees collected are to fund the running of the club as a BMW club we have certain standards to meet to meet those standard is not cheap. If we are not going to be any different after we become a full fledge club, why are we wasting our time collecting fees in the first place, we might as well be what we are now bcos if we are going to collect fees that is not enough to enhance this club experience then we might as well be what we are now,
the small little coffeeshop when we actually someday want to be like coffeebean.

[KL2DC]

What are your proposals for other sources of operations funding? Have you started talks with BMW Malaysia for support, I think this is key. You guys need to do serious lobbying. Aside from various sponsors, you can do online ad sales and if you guys are starting up a newsletter (print or online), that is also another source of funds. Also start up an online store selling merchandise. The funds do not have to be borne of the membership base 100%. The membership base should be your tool to get more funds, its not an end all. Also small events like an auto-x day could be a good source of funds, especially if you open it up to the public.

[godflesh]

ok lets put it this way, tropicana club the joining fee is RM25000 can you say I only want to use the swimming pool can pay Rm5000 only bcos I dont have time to play golf.
As it was mention earlier fees collected are to fund the running of the club as a BMW club we have certain standards to meet to meet those standard is not cheap. If we are not going to be any different after we become a full fledge club, why are we wasting our time collecting fees in the first place, we might as well be what we are now bcos if we are going to collect fees that is not enough to enhance this club experience then we might as well be what we are now,
the small little coffeeshop when we actually someday want to be like coffeebean.

XXX,
Not a bad idea. That's all a car club should be. What are we trying to achieve by collecting RM300, recruting 25 members and losing 250 or more - just doesn't make sense - and that's going to happen.

Also, just curious, how does the club plan to enhance member's experiences - a cap and shirt is not going to suffice. A lot of the statements in this and previous posts are very vague. I'm here mainly for tech support and at RM300 I'll get it for free somewhere else.

As for the fees - Scin couldn't have put it better. Don't need to fork out hard earned cash to feel great about driving a bmw - I feel great driving ANY car (even my proton) looking at the absurd prices we pay here in Boleh Land!

And finally, for the time being........

Tropicana isn't based on a "www. forum"

Later.....

[mini_jeff67]

BTW, I don't think you have to be rich to own a UDM... u just need to be prepared for a lot of commitment!

[MRsamdol]

Tropicana?? If compared with a golf club like tropicana means that you want bmw club malaysia to be exclusive and that means no lower middle income group is allowed... Also you can be a non golfing member of tropicana its much cheaper.

Just messing/kidding around... I understand what you trying to say.

[sithwarrior]

KL2DC - yes we have already started talks with key sponsors and partners. Yes BMW Malaysia included. Give us some time. We are trying to affiliate ourselves with others as well.

Godflesh - Yes of course you can get your tech support else where, its up to you if you want to do so. We have no right to dictate where you should go seek your information from. We have more than just Shirts and caps, we're not that silly. This is the BMW owners club and the experience that you get here is not only from driving your BMW, but also by making freinds, networking,etc etc etc.... but I suppose nothing would be good enough for you so I have just wasted my time explaining... or have I ? Tropicana isnt based on a www.forum (http://www.forum) is honestly the smallest argument someone can have.

Scin - Your points fair and are being discussed. Please do give us a little more time. I asure you that the committee is putting a great deal of effort to make this club a wonderfull experience. Its not just about chillin with the posers... Trust me even I dont want to be part of some poser club. One Teh Tarik on me... Let me know when you're free

[XXX]

What are your proposals for other sources of operations funding? Have you started talks with BMW Malaysia for support, I think this is key. You guys need to do serious lobbying. Aside from various sponsors, you can do online ad sales and if you guys are starting up a newsletter (print or online), that is also another source of funds. Also start up an online store selling merchandise. The funds do not have to be borne of the membership base 100%. The membership base should be your tool to get more funds, its not an end all. Also small events like an auto-x day could be a good source of funds, especially if you open it up to the public.

FYI being an official BMW Club our hands are tied we are not allowed to advertise workshops, spareparts or aftermarket parts not even Hamann or ACS so there goes most of the people that we should target. So we are trying to get some others but its been hell. Also we have not proven ourselves yet as a club and that makes life tougher as well. BMWs support is more like a technical advisor no cash involved. For the moment funds will come from the membership drive. Untill then we have only this to play with and proof that this club is worth joining.
But seriously until we have members and enough of it to hold an AGM to change the constitution rgdg the fees, Im afraid not much can be done. As this fees was approved by the committee and members way b4 the current one and this was submitted to ROS and approved only recently.
Cheers

[XXX]

Tropicana isn't based on a "www. forum"


that is where you are missing the point..we are now no more a cyberspace club we have reigistered ourselves with ROS so we are now a registerd club on planet earth and on planet earth you now need money to survive. The Forum is now one of the benefits you will get when you join the club and not the other way around anymore. Our vision is to the extend of having our own clubhouse thats how far we want to go...hopefully like Tropicana but only RM150 one time fee and RM150 annually.

[scin]

Tropicana?? If compared with a golf club like tropicana means that you want bmw club malaysia to be exclusive and that means no lower middle income group is allowed... Also you can be a non golfing member of tropicana its much cheaper.

Just messing/kidding around... I understand what you trying to say.


But there is some truth to that ( the exclusivity aside )

A) full golf membership for those who want it all
B) reduced rate for those who only want certain facilities of the club

Makes perfect sense.


And as Godflesh said "What are we trying to achieve by collecting RM300, recruting 25 members and losing 250 or more - just doesn't make sense - and that's going to happen."



Better to collect 25 full members and 250 part members fees than just the 25.

[scin]

KL2DC - yes we have already started talks with key sponsors and partners. Yes BMW Malaysia included. Give us some time. We are trying to affiliate ourselves with others as well.

Godflesh - Yes of course you can get your tech support else where, its up to you if you want to do so. We have no right to dictate where you should go seek your information from. We have more than just Shirts and caps, we're not that silly. This is the BMW owners club and the experience that you get here is not only from driving your BMW, but also by making freinds, networking,etc etc etc.... but I suppose nothing would be good enough for you so I have just wasted my time explaining... or have I ? Tropicana isnt based on a www.forum (http://www.forum) is honestly the smallest argument someone can have.

Scin - Your points fair and are being discussed. Please do give us a little more time. I asure you that the committee is putting a great deal of effort to make this club a wonderfull experience. Its not just about chillin with the posers... Trust me even I dont want to be part of some poser club. One Teh Tarik on me... Let me know when you're free



No worries mate... just speakin my mind... I completely understand that these things take time... AND don't get me wrong, I am quite willing to pay the fees as I understand the situation and that it cannot be reviewed until later and that the committee is doing their best. It is an unenviable task and indeed a labour of love which requires a decent ammount of dedication. I respect and appreciate that.
I just want to make sure that the fees are not being justified with the "wrong" reasons.....before I fork it out!

[XXX]

if we do that we would probably end up with

Forum members 250
Club members 5

We are now trying to market the club and not the forum, the forum is what u will benefit when u join the club...so how can we just sell the 'benefit'?

[godflesh]

that is where you are missing the point..we are now no more a cyberspace club we have reigistered ourselves with ROS so we are now a registerd club on planet earth and on planet earth you now need money to survive. The Forum is now one of the benefits you will get when you join the club and not the other way around anymore. Our vision is to the extend of having our own clubhouse thats how far we want to go...hopefully like Tropicana but only RM150 one time fee and RM150 annually.


XXX,

With all due respect - Don't lecture me on the need for money- the fact that everyone needs money in today's world to survive is one reason why the club is going to experience a fallout. If it doesn't - then good for all of us.

The way I see it you guys have been doing a great job all this while so why risk losing support by imposing exorbitant fees. And also do remember that when you charge RM300 for a club- people are going to expect a lot - and there's no pleasing everyone - especially in boleh land. You can't promise members the world with RM300 x 250ppl = RM75000

Either charge everyone

1) RM50,000 to join the club OR
2) RM55 for shirt and car sticker

I bet you my last dollar the club will have a larger, more loyal following with the second option. That's my opinion.


I wouldn't over engineer this. Good luck to all.

Later......

[XXX]

RM55 can just barely pay for a shirt my friend...what abt cost for events and such? go beg?..you dont seem to understand the concept of how a club runs do you.In insurance we pool the money to pay the unfortunate, In a club we pool the money so the members can get together and have a good time through activities and events organised by the Office Bearers which are chosen by those who paid. If you are not into this than I suppose a club is not for you. A free forum in cyberspace is what you are looking for.
Sorry to sound like a broken record but once we are launch officially this site is one of the things that has been organised and made for the Club Member. So you see we have something already...for the benefit of a club member with more things to come.

Oh! with RM75000 last years Annual Dinner Could be attended by all members for free and with change to spare...and for the outstation drives petrol and hotel would have been heavily subsidised.

[godflesh]

[quote=XXX]RM55 can just barely pay for a shirt my friend...what abt cost for events and such? go beg?..
Don't beg. Charge the ppl who are attending

you dont seem to understand the concept of how a club runs do you.
Maybe not. I suppose you do? pls educate me. what am I missing?? you'd rather see a club made up of say 10 committee members and no regualr members??


In insurance we pool the money to pay the unfortunate, In a club we pool the money so the members can get together and have a good time through activities and events organised by the Office Bearers which are chosen by those who paid.
How can you compare insurance to a Car club??? Solution - charge as you organise events. Problem - Once you've paid a lump sum I'm sure not many opinions will be taken into account.


If you are not into this than I suppose a club is not for you. A free forum in cyberspace is what you are looking for.
You may be right there - but then again, who are you to decide.

Sorry to sound like a broken record but once we are launch officially this site is one of the things that has been organised and made for the Club Member. So you see we have something already...for the benefit of a club member with more things to come.

And you see it fit to charge 150 annually for a spot in cyberspace?

Oh! with RM75000 last years Annual Dinner Could be attended by all members for free and with change to spare...and for the outstation drives petrol and hotel would have been heavily subsidised.

Can't argue. Don't know the cost, figures, numbers of ppl etc. You could do the same for upcoming events and charge only those attending, same end result.

All above are my 2cents but I'm sure you are wiser and probably know much more than I do.

Not getting personal but.....

If you've confidence in what the club's doing and you're sure this is going to work out ---you don't need to be responding to my rants. I'm sure you have better things to do - I know I do.

Cheers..!

[sithwarrior]

XXX & Godflesh please stop this now. Everyone has a valid point and are speaking their mind. Take it easy guys.

Godflesh... We have been trying to explain to everyone why the cost is as such, but just like how it usually is in BOLEH LAND, its not easy. It has been an uphill task to first get the ROS out, then now launch the club. I really hope you can be a little more supportive... An AGM will be coming up and it will the perfect time for everyone here to pick / elect the perfect candidate to run this club, for now I would like to ask for some support...

[ah lian]

"kong chien siong kum ching" (talk abt money hurt feelings)

the true test of frenship.

[blackrobe]

All I see here are whiners who are making DEMANDS for something they have not contributed for and have been taking for granted whatever that has been thus provided (read FREE FORUM). Sith and XXX (commendably) have been pandering (uselessly I fear) to your incessant whinging about every single thing. The Committee has worked very hard to achieve what we have so far, and are also working extra time to achieve much more for the members of the CLUB. All this, but NO show of support from 'forummers' to become members. its a 'Catch-22' situation. Without funds (read Registration & Annual Fees), yet many expect The Comm to work miracles. Gratitude seems to have taken a flying leap out the window. Ponder on this before blasting your mouths. 'A closed mouth catches no flies'

[godflesh]

All I see here are whiners who are making DEMANDS for something they have not contributed for and have been taking for granted whatever that has been thus provided (read FREE FORUM). Sith and XXX (commendably) have been pandering (uselessly I fear) to your incessant whinging about every single thing. The Committee has worked very hard to achieve what we have so far, and are also working extra time to achieve much more for the members of the CLUB. All this, but NO show of support from 'forummers' to become members. its a 'Catch-22' situation. Without funds (read Registration & Annual Fees), yet many expect The Comm to work miracles. Gratitude seems to have taken a flying leap out the window. Ponder on this before blasting your mouths. 'A closed mouth catches no flies'


The thread was started to get view points and suggestions. Who are you to silence any member of this forum - ISA ka??

For your info, my mouth is closed - I'm typing.

[blackrobe]

The thread was started to get view points and suggestions. Who are you to silence any member of this forum - ISA ka??

For your info, my mouth is closed - I'm typing.

So far I have not taken this to a personal level. But in response I would request that you Kindly refrain from indulging to your infantile insecurities and read the posting as it is meant to be and not display your ignorance but making inconsequential remarks.

[rifhamdi]

ok lets put it this way, tropicana club the joining fee is RM25000 can you say I only want to use the swimming pool can pay Rm5000 only bcos I dont have time to play golf.
As it was mention earlier fees collected are to fund the running of the club as a BMW club we have certain standards to meet to meet those standard is not cheap. If we are not going to be any different after we become a full fledge club, why are we wasting our time collecting fees in the first place, we might as well be what we are now bcos if we are going to collect fees that is not enough to enhance this club experience then we might as well be what we are now,
the small little coffeeshop when we actually someday want to be like coffeebean.

Yes, xxx... I read you loud and clear, 5 by 5..... that is reason why till now I have not become a member of any club for that matter, eventhough they have an installment plan for us 'not the rich' people.

To tell you guys the truth, it doesn't matter to me if the club is sanctioned or endorsed by bmw malaysia or germany for that matter. All I need is an avenue to discuss about the marque we all have a common passion for in an informal way/avenue.

I mean things are already formal enough in the office during the day with some of us abiding to protocol most of the time as it is. So let us all relax and unwind by organizing activities without any more added formality and stress in this already stressful life of ours.

We have been going on till today organizing activities, drives and such without inplementing any 'membership' fees and i must say things have been working rather well. To me, we don't have to be formal and 'registered' to make the club a happening place. look at what KL2DC poited out that even the BMW club in the US don't collect fees and yet their activities still can be well organized.

Well, everybody have different levels of satisfaction, just look at iqlima who is already satisfied by just owning and looking at the kidney of his 7 without all the freebies which comes upon signing up as a member. Likewise, yours truly who is more than satisfied owning, driving and not to mention looking at a classic E21 without any obligation to pay RM300 anywhere to be a member of any car club whether or not if its internet base... just like those who stick those oversized stickers 'BMW' or 'HONDA' on front windshield of their cars becuase that gives them the satisfaction. so what if its tacky! personal satisfaction is the way to go, no?

[rifhamdi]

BTW, even discussing this issue is stressful to some..... just look at some of the replies above^^^^^

chill people!

[ah lian]

To tell you guys the truth, it doesn't matter to me if the club is sanctioned or endorsed by bmw malaysia or germany for that matter. All I need is an avenue to discuss about the marque we all have a common passion for in an informal way/avenue.



We have been going on till today organizing activities, drives and such without inplementing any 'membership' fees and i must say things have been working rather well. To me, we don't have to be formal and 'registered' to make the club a happening place. look at what KL2DC poited out that even the BMW club in the US don't collect fees and yet their activities still can be well organized.


so, end of story. no fees is reasonable. cos wan for free. :eek:

[blackrobe]

This forum is for the mature exchange of ideas/views...lets keep it mature and non personal.

[rifhamdi]

so, end of story. no fees is reasonable. cos wan for free. :eek:

Sorry ah lian, for getting me wrong….

What I am trying to say is that, in my opinion, the RM300 membership fee is not justified in terms of the RM150 freebies which comes upon enrolment. I don't need a BMW endorsed cap, key chain, club windshield sticker and such…. I derive no satisfaction on owning those freebies, that is all.

A matter of JUSTIFICATION with the amount of fee imposed! Are you willing to part with x amount of money for those stuff? Likewise, are you willing to part with x amount of money towards the annual fee knowing very well you are not going to maximise the utilities provided?..... Just like what XXX pointed out on the tropicana club example posting #116 on page 12.

Sorry there, ah lian but I don't feel comfortable with the amount and YES! If possible, I would like this forum to be carried on just like what we are enjoying now without imposing any membership fee in order to access.

To give you an example: our water tariffs, expect to incease rates even when the water is clearly not fit for consumption right out of the tap….. example 2: increase of toll rates eventhough the highways are jammed packed daily bumper to bumper most of the time……

Do you guys get my drift?

[ah lian]

which part i wrong? you wan for free mah.

this forum is not free, just dat currently, you dun have to pay oni. the owners of dis forum has a right to charge if they wan. dats their right. :rolleyes:

[KL2DC]

I like to make a minor correction:

BMW CCA charges $40 annual dues but no sign up fee. Its not free but $40 is reasonable in light of the benefits.

The immediate/popular benefits are:

1) Excellent monthly magazine 'Roundel'
2) $500 rebate check on new BMW purchase/lease (must be a member min 1 year)
3) Discounts on parts/accessories including Dinan products at participating dealer
4) Regional chapters host various social mixers and driving events (not all are free but heavily subsidized)

All we get at sign up is a window sticker. But they do have an excellent online store.

Club membership is encouraged by client advisors. This is the extent of the club's association with BMW NA, its almost like an arm. I envision BCM reaching this point one day. Car clubs heightens the ownership experience and builds much goodwill and loyalty to a single marque.

Please keep in mind that the low annual dues is possible as the club is extensively supported by BMW NA, sponsors, ad revenues and proceeds from various events. Apparently BCM is not allowed to accept ad revenue??

I am glad to see the committee members coming out to address views, opinions, comments, suggestions and even criticism. I am also appreciative that they've kept this thread open. I can see that they are genuinely concerned with how everyone feels. It would be nice to have a broad discussion forum prior to the decision on fees as such. I think some people were none too happy about it, they felt left out as constituents of this organization. But I also see the need for expedited and efficient actions in getting this show on the road.

Well since the fees structures could not be revised, how about introducing a new tier in membership dues/sign up to keep everyone happy? Again, to me, the numbers is the main objective. You can't have a big footprint without the numbers.

Btw no one answered my question on how to pay my fees? :confused:

[rifhamdi]

Likewise ah lian, its my right to pay up and be a member if I want to!

and if you think i am going to part with RM300 just to be a member, i am sorry but i won't. so be it! as i said earlier, owning and driving my E21 is already a satisfying enough!

........if possible, I would want things to carry on as they were. If not feasible than its alright if a reasonable fee needs to be imposed. I am very much aware even to run a website is not free.

But…. I would not want to repeat myself and sound like a broken record…. So pls refer to postings as above.

KL2DC…. The $40 charged looks reasonable before conversion la...

Cheers all:)

[jarance]

Likewise ah lian, its my right to pay up and be a member if I want to!

like I said, if possible, I would want things to carry on as they were. If not feasible than its alright if a reasonable fee needs to be imposed. I am very much aware even to run a website is not free.

But…. I would not want to repeat myself and sound like a broken record…. So pls refer to postings as above.

KL2DC…. The $40 charged looks reasonable before conversion la...

Cheers all:)


be careful what you wish for lah.. USD40 x RM3.7 = RM148 :eek:

Anyway, all views are welcome. Most of the query seem to be on the justification of the fees being imposed. However, due to the ROS bylaw of BCM constitution, the registration fee and annual fee have been set. Even if the club want to give a discount, we still have to consider whether the club will get into trouble with ROS later on. As most of you are aware, any change to the bylaws of the constitution have to be decided by a majority votes from members during the AGM. I hope some of you will understand this requirement.

The committees are voted by the members and being an office bearer and caretaker of the club, we have to uphold and abide by the constitution. In addition, we are responsible for the well being of this club. But the most important thing is we are answerable to all the members who vote us into office.

All we are asking is to put your faith in us. This club is nothing with the support of the members. and Yes it is YOU..

cheers..

[sithwarrior]

I like to make a minor correction:

BMW CCA charges $40 annual dues but no sign up fee. Its not free but $40 is reasonable in light of the benefits.

The immediate/popular benefits are:

1) Excellent monthly magazine 'Roundel'
2) $500 rebate check on new BMW purchase/lease (must be a member min 1 year)
3) Discounts on parts/accessories including Dinan products at participating dealer
4) Regional chapters host various social mixers and driving events (not all are free but heavily subsidized)

All we get at sign up is a window sticker. But they do have an excellent online store.

Club membership is encouraged by client advisors. This is the extent of the club's association with BMW NA, its almost like an arm. I envision BCM reaching this point one day. Car clubs heightens the ownership experience and builds much goodwill and loyalty to a single marque.

Please keep in mind that the low annual dues is possible as the club is extensively supported by BMW NA, sponsors, ad revenues and proceeds from various events. Apparently BCM is not allowed to accept ad revenue??

I am glad to see the committee members coming out to address views, opinions, comments, suggestions and even criticism. I am also appreciative that they've kept this thread open. I can see that they are genuinely concerned with how everyone feels. It would be nice to have a broad discussion forum prior to the decision on fees as such. I think some people were none too happy about it, they felt left out as constituents of this organization. But I also see the need for expedited and efficient actions in getting this show on the road.

Well since the fees structures could not be revised, how about introducing a new tier in membership dues/sign up to keep everyone happy? Again, to me, the numbers is the main objective. You can't have a big footprint without the numbers.

Btw no one answered my question on how to pay my fees? :confused:

Donny, your input is greatly appreciated, at least your comments are constructive in nature to say the least. Hahaha....now since you revealed that BMW CCA does indeed charge a membership fee, someone is already crying foul. No fee is low enough for some!!

What all members need to understand is Rome wasnt built in a single day. Committee members (particularly XXX and Fabian) are working hard to get sponsorships and other benefits for the members, of course this all takes time. We have already spoken to BMW Malaysia as well but of course their reply wasnt so encouraging in monetary terms and now we have no choice but to look into other avenues.

Rather than asking, what can I get for RM300, every forum member should ask themselves what they can do for the club instead. A lot of people have benefitted from this club, some have their technical problems solved, some made great friends, some found love, some had new business ventures through new friends and etc....this is the club where it all started. Can you really put a price on this? RM300 would be a bargain!!

At the end of day, it all depends on what the members want. The committee and advisors have chosen to take this forum based club to the next level, and we are all elected by members like you all to run this club. Let's all make this happen!

Cheers :)

[KL2DC]

Donny, your input is greatly appreciated, at least your comments are constructive in nature to say the least. Hahaha....now since you revealed that BMW CCA does indeed charge a membership fee, someone is already crying foul. No fee is low enough for some!!



That is precisely the point! Someone infered from my earlier post that BMW CCA is free, its not but they don't charge a sign up fee which is the pivotal issue to many. I think many are mostly ok with the annual fees, but they like to see a tiered approach for the sign up fee.

I am not here to champion BMW CCA but to provide insights. That is the direction I'd like to see this club take/go.

As you said Rome wasn't built in a day, I agree, that is what I've been harping about in my last posts. The main imperative now is to build up the numbers first. We need to band the constituents together. Without the numbers we can't achieve all the other goals. We have so much potential right now...

[aermyn]

Donny, your input is greatly appreciated, at least your comments are constructive in nature to say the least. Hahaha....now since you revealed that BMW CCA does indeed charge a membership fee, someone is already crying foul. No fee is low enough for some!!

What all members need to understand is Rome wasnt built in a single day. Committee members (particularly XXX and Fabian) are working hard to get sponsorships and other benefits for the members, of course this all takes time. We have already spoken to BMW Malaysia as well but of course their reply wasnt so encouraging in monetary terms and now we have no choice but to look into other avenues.

Rather than asking, what can I get for RM300, every forum member should ask themselves what they can do for the club instead. A lot of people have benefitted from this club, some have their technical problems solved, some made great friends, some found love, some had new business ventures through new friends and etc....this is the club where it all started. Can you really put a price on this? RM300 would be a bargain!!

At the end of day, it all depends on what the members want. The committee and advisors have chosen to take this forum based club to the next level, and we are all elected by members like you all to run this club. Let's all make this happen!

Cheers :)
Sitt,

I seconded what u mention, XXX and Fabian are working very hard for the Club but in returned all of forumners still bargain on the fees. Club have the rules and regulation. Without support from the members the club can't survived. I hope all the forumners could understand the Newly Form Club need fund to run the show.


KL2DC,

Please remember that BMW CCA is totally different from BMW Club Malaysia. How much to purchase a new BMW E90 in BMW CCA and to purchase a new BMW E90 in Malaysia ? As mention by ah lian $40 is equal to about RM150.00, so what is the different is we have 2 type of payment that registration and annual fees.

[sithwarrior]

KL2DC - I think your inputs have been very usefull and for that I would like to thank you. Please try to understand that its useless to have the numbers when the club is broke and can never organise any sort of funtions and get togethers. We seriously sat down and tought about this before we made the decission. Give me a buzz when you're down in KL anytime bro, would be great to catch up and have a drink with you.

Aermyn - Thank you for your understanding and support.

Cheers guys
Sith

[XXX]

Sithwarrior for President....hip hip hurray.

[KL2DC]

Please remember that BMW CCA is totally different from BMW Club Malaysia. How much to purchase a new BMW E90 in BMW CCA and to purchase a new BMW E90 in Malaysia ? As mention by ah lian $40 is equal to about RM150.00, so what is the different is we have 2 type of payment that registration and annual fees.

I never said they were the same, although BMW CCA more than any other International BMW club chapters is indisputably well structured and exemplary. Its a good ultimate goal to shoot for, wouldn't you agree?

From my observation, BCM has the same level of camraderie that I have seen in my local BMW CCA chapter. Factor in the frequencies of your casual g2g's, I'd say that BCM (at least in the klang valley) is also an involving community to be in. As mentioned before, solely on the social dynamics of the group, the Club is brimming with potential. Also as mentioned, the next few steps are uncharted territory and hits/misses are expected but its important to stick through. I am pretty sure BMW CCA had it rough in its fledgling years as well.

Btw, what's the relative price of cars have to do with the discussion at hand?

[KL2DC]

KL2DC - I think your inputs have been very usefull and for that I would like to thank you. Please try to understand that its useless to have the numbers when the club is broke and can never organise any sort of funtions and get togethers. We seriously sat down and tought about this before we made the decission. Give me a buzz when you're down in KL anytime bro, would be great to catch up and have a drink with you.


Cool! I'll look you up when I come down there this March :)

Active discussion aside, you guys have a big undertaking and I must say I wouldn't want to be in your shoes right now. But that also speaks volume on the level of commitment and involvement the comms' have invested. Much applause to the comms'.

[Zoggee]

off topic a bit..

KL2DC..??? March??? come PNDC. we go for a drive.

[kelvinp]

I think the forum access shouldn't be limited to official members only. A personal note to the commitee, limiting access to the online forum will only create more extinction of members. I can bravely take a bet on that.

I suggest the commitee not to limit the forum access but instead lure more newbies into this superb forum of knowledge for free to gain best recognition. At the same time make use of the recognition with a marketing strategy to convince these people to join into the club as an official member where they'll receive physical benefits as in events,discounts,insurance,car-clinics,t-shirts,caps,keychain,plate-holders etc. Those who do not wish to sign-up as an official member will only be able to access the full-forum and nothing else.

I got no comments on the joining fees, but pls allow the others to debate.

[KL2DC]

off topic a bit..

KL2DC..??? March??? come PNDC. we go for a drive.


:D Sure why not! Already planning to scare the wits out of me, ah? :p

[Bailey]

off topic a bit..

KL2DC..??? March??? come PNDC. we go for a drive.

aloooooooo aiyah zoggee tis is not OFF TOPIC A BIT but really2 memang way of off topic maaaaahhhhh

[sithwarrior]

I think the forum access shouldn't be limited to official members only. A personal note to the commitee, limiting access to the online forum will only create more extinction of members. I can bravely take a bet on that.

I suggest the commitee not to limit the forum access but instead lure more newbies into this superb forum of knowledge for free to gain best recognition. At the same time make use of the recognition with a marketing strategy to convince these people to join into the club as an official member where they'll receive physical benefits as in events,discounts,insurance,car-clinics,t-shirts,caps,keychain,plate-holders etc. Those who do not wish to sign-up as an official member will only be able to access the full-forum and nothing else.

I got no comments on the joining fees, but pls allow the others to debate.

Yes Kelvin, Thats what we are also actually heading towards.. I am glad to see more members in tune with the club's goals.

God Bless BMWCM
Sith

[geoffreylee]

Hi All,

I am new in this forum and if I do mention any wrong comments, please forgive me as my intention is sincere.

Even less then a year registering to the forum, I found the Club’s members are the key to the success of this BMW Club. Many offer their sincere help to me and even now as I am searching for my UDM. Like most people, we all dream to own a UDM and thru this Club we hope more dreams can be realized. Keep up the good work guys and gals!

In each club, all members would like to enjoy the benefits of being a member and may I suggest the followings;

For those who love to involve –
1. Joint promotion and roadshow with AB, Sapura, and other main distributor of BMW around Malaysia or Singapore.
- Members can contribute to the sales as they share their passion of BMW to potential buyers. Also new buyers will not feel lost after purchasing their UDM.
- The more Pre Own UDM found enthusiast owner meaning more UDM on the road. Owner of UDM can upgrade as it is easier to find keen buy to own their current ride.
- Love your 28th Jan program. ( Very sad as I missed it)
- Enthusiast like me would like my selected Pre-own UDM to be checked by professionals but I find it is difficult to do so as we always assume Sapura or AB will charge us for it. I hope BMW Club can help in this aspect as to work with Sapura or AB to allow new buyer to send their selected UDM to be check at their facility.

2. There are a lot of potential members in Sarawak and Sabah, not to mention about Brunei.
- A JV with AutoBavaria East Malaysia and Brunei can help attract more members from East Malaysia.
- Currently AB in EastMalaysia will not touch or view your car if yours are not purchase from them. That is a serious problem to many UDM owner in Sabah & Sarawak. Technical advice and source of parts are very limited. If BMW Club and Sapura or other dealers can help organize BMW clinic it will attract many UDM owner. This can be JV with gray importers in Sarawak and Sabah.
- Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club – London did a wonderful TT in East Malaysia. Attract as many as 200 cars from all over the world. The cars are on display in Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, Miri, Brunei, Kota Kinabalu. (I do have the video of this TT)

3. Maintain your good members and reward your supportive members with incentives and upgrades of membership involvements. Good members make good clubs.
4. Also suggest clearing your chat as some are in-relevant to the topic as it is not good sight for your forum new visitors.
5. TT Should be more well organized as when I read through your forum, its difficult to convince myself to go there. Reasons are as follows;
- Bad reviewers in your forum find it boring
- Shy as I do not own a UDM yet
- Can be too far away
- No many special / highlights to look forward for

Guess I have said too much as a newbie…

Once again sorry if I said anything wrong.

[sithwarrior]

Geoffreylee,

Thank you very much for your inputs. It is very much appreciated. The committee is working towards that actually. There may be some hiccups during this period, but rest assured that the committee will stay commited to giving all BMWCM an oustanding experience here in the club....

Just to give you a hint... Apart from the Club Launch there is also a big drive / holiday / family day up north coming up very soon. This event will be posted up soon enough.

Sith

[geoffreylee]

Hi Sithwarrior,

Thanks for the prompt reply.

If BMWCM do have interest to do an incentive trip to East Malaysia do feel free to seek the assistance of the newly setup convention bureau.

More infor can be found here www.sarawakcb.com

Many UDM owner in Sarawak and I believe they will be keen to join BMWCM

Cheers

[sithwarrior]

No problems geofrey - Please do tell the east malaysian chapter that they are also in our disscussions. Eventually all privillages and benefits that West malaysia enjoys, will be enjoyed by the eastern chapter too.... Like I said please do give us a little bit more time....

Bailey - Yeps man... I hope it will be a 2 night 3 day thingy...

[ALBundy]

Donny, your input is greatly appreciated, at least your comments are constructive in nature to say the least. Hahaha....now since you revealed that BMW CCA does indeed charge a membership fee, someone is already crying foul. No fee is low enough for some!!

What all members need to understand is Rome wasnt built in a single day. Committee members (particularly XXX and Fabian) are working hard to get sponsorships and other benefits for the members, of course this all takes time. We have already spoken to BMW Malaysia as well but of course their reply wasnt so encouraging in monetary terms and now we have no choice but to look into other avenues.

Rather than asking, what can I get for RM300, every forum member should ask themselves what they can do for the club instead. A lot of people have benefitted from this club, some have their technical problems solved, some made great friends, some found love, some had new business ventures through new friends and etc....this is the club where it all started. Can you really put a price on this? RM300 would be a bargain!!

At the end of day, it all depends on what the members want. The committee and advisors have chosen to take this forum based club to the next level, and we are all elected by members like you all to run this club. Let's all make this happen!

Cheers :)

Suthe, well said. Of all your previous writings, this one makes most sense!:p :) :D

[sithwarrior]

Suthe, well said. Of all your previous writings, this one makes most sense!:p :) :D

oi... what are you doing you freak !!!! So hows your mutated E36 doing

[KL2DC]

Suthe, well said. Of all your previous writings, this one makes most sense!:p :) :D

+1

...with a little JFK thrown in for good measure :D (referencing of course the famous inagural 'ask not what your country can do for you' speech....)

[ALBundy]

Ditto.....and hence the best write up from suthe, despite the plagiarism hahaha...

[blackrobe]

Ditto.....and hence the best write up from suthe, despite the plagiarism hahaha...

Really ka? hmmmmm...now it makes sense...:mad:

[GeniusBanana]

err 1 question here..let's say my family have 2 bmw and if i were to register as a member i need to pay another more 300 for the 2nd bmw???

[KL2DC]

err 1 question here..let's say my family have 2 bmw and if i were to register as a member i need to pay another more 300 for the 2nd bmw???

You're registering your person, not the car....:) So its just one, don't matter how many bimmers u got.

[sithwarrior]

Guys.. Its that time again.. the offcial launch will announced soon... stay tuned....

[Bailey]

wei when can we start paying hah? now april aledi....hope to hav some events guys chill...................

[sithwarrior]

wei when can we start paying hah? now april aledi....hope to hav some events guys chill...................

All in good time my freind, all in good time.

[Bailey]

glad to hear tat , r we game for the Penang trip for the launch (tats wat i heard, correct me if im wrong ya)

[sithwarrior]

glad to hear tat , r we game for the Penang trip for the launch (tats wat i heard, correct me if im wrong ya)

No lah, but after the launch we organise a drive to penang if you want. Bailey can be the subcommittee rep for the penang trip. Propose to us bro.

[JYazid]

can be the subcommittee rep for the penang trip. Propose to us bro.


Macam biasa dengar aje ..... ooppsss.....
it is Standard Operating Procedure ..... sori lupe .........

[ICEMAN 13]

Macam biasa dengar aje
it is Standard Operating Procedure ..... sori lupe .........

biasa larr bang ..ini standard operation procedure sudah ISO certified ..so tak boleh buat penukaran susuka hati larrr...

atau pun SITH OWN PROCEDURE manual ...apamacam ..sounds good ?

[sithwarrior]

Macam biasa dengar aje ..... ooppsss.....
it is Standard Operating Procedure ..... sori lupe .........

Dont start with me now !!!

[JYazid]

biasa larr bang ..ini standard operation procedure sudah ISO certified ..so tak boleh buat penukaran susuka hati larrr...

atau pun SITH OWN PROCEDURE manual ...apamacam ..sounds good ?


good answer ..... wise man answering .... hahahaha

[JYazid]

Dont start with me now !!!



........start what .......... come lar scared arr ...........

[sithwarrior]

........start what .......... come lar scared arr ...........

coming coming !!!:p

[Bailey]

wei bro sith & jyazid aiyah be more open lah dont quarrel2 like cat & dog lah yeeeeehaaaa

[sithwarrior]

wei bro sith & jyazid aiyah be more open lah dont quarrel2 like cat & dog lah yeeeeehaaaa

Cats & Dogs ?? More like the bald eagle and the dangdut dugong... hahahahaha