The YWCA is part of the world in which it has lived. It has not only reflected that life but has been a significant influence for change. The story of its past provides clues for understanding its present nature and task. From its history one discovers that its concern for the welfare and development of women and girls has from its beginning been its driving force. At the heart of the changing patterns of structure and programme is its Christian purpose to unite women and girls in a world-wide Christian fellowship where each may grow in the knowledge and love of God.

In 1885 in London two women met together “over a cup of tea” and decided to form the Young Women’s Christian Association. These women, Miss Emma Roberts and Mrs Arthur Kinnard, brought together their two separate efforts to improve the lot of women of their day. Miss Roberts, concerned for the spiritual welfare of women and girls of every kind, had drawn together a group of twenty-three to pray for all in need… “Princesses and all who glitter in society to the humblest sweeper, the criminal and the fallen”. These two strands of devotion in prayer and practical service have been the interwoven indispensable parts of the YWCA from the beginning until this present day.

The World YWCA today is a global network of 25 million women in over 100 countries with a shared vision for justice, peace, health, human dignity, freedom and the environment. It has a common purpose to promote and sustain women’s leadership.

The YWCA in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the work of the YWCA was first started in Singapore in 1875 by Sophia Cooke, a British missionary. Singapore was one of the territories in Malaya under the British rule. It started with organised classes for groups of girls, but it soon also provided hostel accommodation for girls. In 1909 the movement spread to Penang, in 1913 to Kuala Lumpur and in 1921 to Melaka, keeping to the common motto, ‘By Love Serve One Another’.

These 4 Associations decided in 1921 to form a central body which would coordinate their policies and activities, and also liase with the World YWCA. Local Associations can only exist as a YWCA through its affiliation to National and National to World YWCA. The national body would also engage with the government and non-governmental organisations to ensure active participation in matters concerning the welfare and progress of women and girls. This led to the formation of the YWCA of Malaya, based in Kuala Lumpur.

The movement continued to grow with YWCAs being formed in Ipoh in 1930, Seremban in 1950, Petaling Jaya in 1964, Klang in 1964, Kuantan in 1982, and Air Keroh in 1983.

In 1950 the name of the national body was changed to the YWCA of Malaya and Singapore in keeping with the rapid growth of Singapore as an independent British colony. Although Malaya gained independence in 1957, it was only in 1970 that the YWCA of Malaysia and the YWCA of Singapore became separate entities with their own constitutions. Youth and adults, volunteers and staff members work together, each bringing, her own special contribution to the common undertaking. The richness of its life and work come from the recognition and appreciation of what each brings.

The YWCA of Malaysia works closely with the National Council of Women's Organisation (NCWO) and is also affiliated to the National Council of Social Welfare (MAKPEM) as well as the Council of Churches Malaysia (CCM).