Rotary in Asia
Rotary’s footprint in Asia is vast and diverse, reflecting the region’s cultural richness and dynamic economic landscape. With thousands of clubs spread across the continent, Rotary in Asia plays a pivotal role in addressing pressing local and regional challenges while fostering global collaboration.
A History of Growth and Service
Rotary’s expansion into Asia began in the early 20th century, with the establishment of clubs in major cities such as Manila, Tokyo, and Shanghai. Today, Rotary’s presence spans from the bustling metropolises of East Asia to the remote villages of South Asia, each club united by the shared mission of “Service Above Self.”

Impactful Initiatives Across the Continent
Rotary clubs in Asia have been at the forefront of several transformative initiatives, including:
- Polio Eradication: Asia has been a critical battleground in Rotary’s fight against polio. The organization has worked tirelessly in countries like India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan to administer vaccines, conduct awareness campaigns, and strengthen healthcare systems. Rotary’s efforts have brought the world closer to eliminating this disease.
- Disaster Relief: The region’s susceptibility to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis has led Rotary clubs in Asia to develop robust disaster response mechanisms. Clubs often collaborate to provide immediate relief, rebuild communities, and create sustainable disaster-preparedness programs.
- Youth and Education Programs: Asia’s youth are a key focus for Rotary. Initiatives such as Rotaract and Interact empower young leaders to engage in community service and leadership development. Additionally, scholarships and literacy programs aim to reduce educational inequities.
Notable Regional Achievements
Rotary’s adaptability to Asia’s diverse cultural and social contexts allows it to address local needs effectively. For instance:
- In India, Rotary clubs have established thousands of water purification units, providing clean drinking water to underserved communities.
- In Japan, clubs have long supported peace and reconciliation programs, particularly through partnerships with Rotary Peace Centers.
- In Southeast Asia, Rotary’s initiatives often focus on sustainable development, including projects on renewable energy and rural electrification.
Membership and Collaboration
Rotary’s network in Asia includes tens of thousands of members who contribute their professional expertise and resources to tackle complex challenges. The region is home to vibrant district conferences, training seminars, and international conventions that foster collaboration among Rotarians from diverse backgrounds.
A Vision for the Future
As Asia continues to grow and evolve, Rotary remains committed to addressing emerging challenges such as urbanization, climate change, and economic inequality. By uniting leaders and communities, Rotary in Asia continues to inspire positive change, proving that collective efforts can transcend borders and make a global impact.
This enriched section highlights Rotary’s significant role and accomplishments in Asia while emphasizing its continued commitment to service and innovation.
Rotary International has a significant presence across Asia, with thousands of clubs actively contributing to community development and international understanding. As of 2024, Asia hosts approximately 10,460 Rotary clubs, accounting for about 30% of all Rotary clubs worldwide.
These clubs are distributed across numerous countries, including:
- East Asia: China, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, Taiwan
- Southeast Asia: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam
- South Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
- Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
- Western Asia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates
Each country hosts multiple Rotary clubs that engage in various service projects tailored to local needs, such as health initiatives, educational programs, and economic development efforts. This extensive network enables Rotary to address diverse challenges across the continent, fostering goodwill and peace through collective action.