TZU CHI

The World Of
慈濟世界
JANUARY 2013
35
TZU CHI
FREE COPY FOR DISTRIBUTION KDN: PP15778/05/2013(032472)
Tzu Chi Scholarship Scheme
EVENT
Care & Love
FEATURE
Two Decades of Undivided
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www.tzuchi.my
用智慧探討人生真義，
用毅力安排人生時間。
Jing-Si Aphorism
Happy 2013!
Explore the true purpose
in life with wisdom;
and organise daily routines
with due urgency.
~ Jing-Si Aphorism by Dharma Master Cheng Yen
Photograph by Boon Wai Kong
Contents
Contents
Photograph by
Elaine Hua Tze Tyng
MASTER’S TEACHING
02
Deliverance from Suffering
and Having Peace of Mind
TZU CHI IN PERSPECTIVE
06
Shoulder Duties that Come Your Way
Forget Honours that Carry You Away
January, 2013
Issue No. 35
The World of Tzu Chi Monthly
Honorary Publisher
Dharma Master Cheng Yen
Advisor
10
FEATURE
Two Decades of Undivided
Care & Love
EVENT
Echo Chien
Editor-in-Chief
K. K. Wong
Editor
Hew Kwee Heong
20
Tzu Chi Scholarship Scheme
Nurtures Wholesome Students,
Academically and Morally
24
“The Rain & Dew Waltz”
– Night of Great Love
Our Volunteers
For contributing articles, translating,
editing and proof-reading
27
Significant Graduation Ceremonies
at Da Ai Educare Centres
Publisher
30
PHOTO NEWS
34
GLOBAL NEWS
DHARMA
38
The Thirty-Seven Principles
of Enlightenment
41
REFLECTION IN SERENITY - Q & A
42
Graphic Designer
Lee Kam Leong
Our Heartfelt Thanks to:
Tzu Chi Cultural Publication
The World of Tzu Chi Monthly
is owned and published by
Taiwan Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation
Malaysia (K.L & Selangor Branch)
43-45C, 47-49C (3rd Floor),
Jalan SS25/2, Taman Bukit Emas,
47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Tel : (603) 7880 9048
Fax: (603) 7880 8158
Printed by
Vinlin Press Sdn. Bhd.
MASTER CHENG YEN TELLS STORIES
Master Kuya
WORLD OF DAAI TV
44
Rain & Dew ~ Real Life series
about the Tzu Chi Community
49
INSPIRATION
RECIPE
Labour of Love
51
Purple Rose Cookies
52
MALAYSIA TZU CHI CHAPTERS
No. 2, Jalan Meranti Permai 1,
Meranti Permai Industrial Park,
Batu 15, Jalan Puchong,
47100 Puchong, Selangor.
Tel: 03-80615533 Fax: 03-80625533
Write to us
We are earnest to hear from you!
Every one of us ought to have a story of
our own; whether touching, agonising
or inspiring, you are most welcome to
submit them to our English Editor at:
kkwong45@ymail.com
Thank you.
TZU CHI 35
01
M aster’s Teaching
We live in a global community where there is strong interdependency
between one and another. Somewhere, some selfless people are
working very hard to contribute for the good of mankind. Though
we may not be aware of their existence, we ought to be grateful to
them. These people, who involved themselves in hours and hours of
dangerous and backbreaking jobs, are just eking out for a living. They
are the “Humanistic Bodhisattvas” and we are indebted to so many of
them for their contributions.
Deliverance from Suffering
and Having Peace of Mind
Lecture by Dharma Master Cheng Yen
Translated by Max Siew
L
et’s be grateful to these unsung heroes who had contributed selflessly and
pray sincerely for a harmonious balance in the four Great Elements (Earth,
Water, Fire and Wind – Buddhists believe that if a balance is maintained between
these four Elements, Planet Earth will function properly as a “healthy” planet).
Praying for a harmonious environment
Our lives revolve around in receiving and contributing back to society. As a
result of the commitments of people from all walks of life, we are able to live in
a comfortable and harmonious environment. However, there are many people
whose jobs are extremely exposed to danger……
02
2013 • 01
On July 25, an explosion rocked a coal mine in Northern Mexico and killed
seven miners. As the blast occurred too fast, there is nothing rescuers could do to
save the victims. Working inside a mining pit constantly put the lives of miners
at stake and they might not even live to see tomorrow again. But, they have to
endure this harsh working conditions to earn a living. We should be grateful to
these selfless heroes who risk their lives for the advancement of the society.
In recent months, North Korea was battered by heavy rain and tropical
storms resulting in widespread flooding. The floods damaged crops waiting to
be harvested and destroyed many buildings and houses. According to a local
media report, more than 16,000 people were rendered homeless, while a mining
area and houses nearby were submerged by flood water. On the other side of the
globe, the central and western parts of the United States were hit by a prolonged
dry spell in recent months, seriously affecting the agricultural yields and leaving
desperate farmers having to struggle for survival for months ahead.
As the ecosystem is ruthlessly exploited by mankind, global warming and
extremely unpredicted weather and catastrophes are inevitable. So, we must
continue to propagate the message that by being vigilant and prudent, while
observing the Precepts faithfully at all times, we can work together to reduce the
occurrences of calamities.
Firmness in virtuous belief
Basically, age and location have no bearing on one’s ability to remain vigilant
and prudent at all times and to faithful observe the Precepts. Students from the
Lower Secondary School affiliated to Hualien Tzu Chi University and Tzu Chi
Tainan High School, made a student exchange tour to the United States during
a summer vocation. The objective of the trip was to enhance awareness and
understanding of the American culture and foster mutual interaction. Before
their departure, they were constantly reminded to adjust to a new cultural
environment while abroad and to be careful of the food intake, particularly food
bought from outside. So, they heeded the advice and did what was told.
As usual, this delegation of study-tour students and teachers would always
bring along Instant Fragrant Rice with them wherever they went; even when
TZU CHI 35
03
M aster’s Teaching
visiting the Grand Canyon. They were also promoting vegetarianism to people along
the way and with anyone they interacted. Their insistence in bringing along vegetarian
self-packed meals and environmental protection generally drew approving smiles
from the local public. Their firmness in resisting the temptation of tantalizing meat
dishes was also commendable.
The students were very keen in sharing their experience and culture to the locals
and seized every opportunity to preach the Dharma to those interested. “Our students
were convincing speakers as everyone were listening in admiration. So, we should
always spread the Dharma overseas, and we call this voluntary preacher and voluntary
sermon.”
Voluntary preachers bringing joy and laughter
As voluntary preachers, they should be ready to overcome all obstacles in order to
enlighten “Humanistic Bodhisattvas” (members of the local public). Vietnam is
currently running a socialist type of government and still adopting a relatively closed-
door policy. Thus, all gatherings and meetings in public places must first obtain approval
from the local authorities. The Tzu Chi people of Vietnam have been contributing
silently over the years and their charitable services for the benefit of the people have
gradually won the recognition from the local authorities and the local public.
What we saw something earlier was a world of difference from what we see now
– in the past, only a handful of people attended the talks by the Tzu Chi speakers. Today,
Tzu Chi sharing draws a considerable large audience. In the routine monthly social
visits to help the needy, they never fail to spread Tzu Chi philosophy, recruiting and
training volunteers and instilling the spirit of volunteerism. They also used to quote the
preliminary stages of Tzu Chi when each volunteer (basically, all housewives) would
set aside a small portion of her daily petty expenses and deposited it into a bamboo
cylinder – the Bamboo Coin Bank Era. The money accumulated in the bamboo coin
banks was used to help the needy. A drop of water makes a mighty ocean, so this is the
way the Tzu Chi community overcame all obstacles and promoted the interaction of
mutual love among people from all walks of life.
04
2013 • 01
The Tzu Chi people are always there for you
Despite facing daunting challenges, the Tzu Chi
people persisted in spreading the Dharma. When
Beijing was recently hit by torrential floods, the local
Tzu Chi volunteers arrived to investigate the affected
areas immediately and prepared relief distribution in a
short time. Taipei was working closely with Suzhou,
China to monitor the flood situation in Beijing. Shortly,
Volunteers in these two cities succeeded in obtaining
supplies of daily necessities such as tooth brushes, tooth
pastes, blankets, kitchen utensils and edible items for
the victims.
In other words, wherever there is a disaster, the
local Tzu Chi people are always there to render the
fastest possible assistance. Tzu Chi volunteers from
abroad might even be deplored for the relief operations.
Understanding the Dharma alone is not enough;
we must put it into daily practice. Actually, everyday
we need to live up to the spirit of Pu Du, namely doing
good deeds and serving our parents.
The true meaning of Pu Du is to deliver all
sentient beings from suffering and at the same time
empowering ourselves for self-deliverance. It is indeed
a heart-warming sight to see Tzu Chi people advocating
the noble act of non-killing and appeal to the general
public not to burn incense paper. In short, we must seize
every moment to do good deeds, as any moment is just
as auspicious.
TZU CHI 35
05
t
zu Chi in Perspective
We should seize every opportunity to strive our best to help others. Until
the task is accomplished, we should then leave the post and forget about
our honours and accomplishments. However, offering service to others
and helping them to accomplish tough jobs might sometimes create an
inadvertent mainstay out of us.
Shoulder Duties that
Come Your Way
Forget Honours that
Carry You Away
By David Liu • Translated by K.K. Wong
“
T
aking office is always easier than stepping down” while “Switching of
position might mean switching of approaches”. This common saying is
prevalent in the present society of today. When entrusted with a high position,
one might easily get carried away and becomes arrogant unknowingly. So, it is
extremely difficult for this person to remain humble or let go of honours and
glory at the prime of career.
Sometimes, when we are posted to a new position and attracted to some
benefits in our jobs, we might become greedy and lose our conscience and
principles in life. Hence, it is much easier to “shoulder tough responsibilities”
than to forget honours that comes our way.
In fact “knowing where we stand” can enable us to lead comfortable lives;
while, “going all out in search of glory” will make us end up in trouble waters. In
ancient China, high-ranking officers were usually very humble and did not like
to seek fame and glory even after accomplishing an important task. Hence, goes
06
2013 • 01
Lao Zi’s famous saying: “After accomplishing an important task, one should not
crave for fame and glory, but leave the post immediately. This is an act of wisdom.”
That was a very ancient and traditional philosophy which was later assimulated into
Confucianism and Taoism.
Confucius was always supportive of “vacating the post after having
accomplishing what should be done”. Basically, he did not stop anyone from taking
on tough missions or high-ranking post, but instead encouraged those who were
capable to accomplish important tasks and should not seek fame and glory after
achieving success. This is apparently a philosophy of life and a virtue which we
should learn.
Craving for something and asking for favour are not gracious intentions
If one intends to become a man of integrity and high morality, he must be able to
look upon fame, luxury and unsurpassed status as something worthless even after
accomplishing a great achievement. Confucius was one of the few who succeeded
in doing so.
Once, there was a Tzu Chi volunteer who assumed the duty of a group leader
for quite some time and decided to quit because of work-related problems. So, this
volunteer went to see Master Cheng Yen to hand in the letter of resignation. “You
have tendered your resignation to me, but to whom shall I tender my resignation?”
Master Cheng Yen asked. “I did not request you to step down and you should not
have resigned. But, when the time comes for you to step down, you should not
refuse to step down.” The piece of advice hidden in this dialogue is rather identical
to that of the philosophies in Confucianism and Taoism.
TZU CHI 35
07
t
zu Chi in Perspective
The reason for others to delegate important tasks to you is because they are
confident that you can accomplish the job satisfactorily. Thus, as soon as you have
accomplished the given tasks, you should vacate your post at the right time and
let eligible ones to take over. This is the spirit of “Keeping up with the good work
while passing on to others” and we can unassumingly play the role of coordinating
mainstay. Life is but a play. Once you are on stage, you should try to play your role
as best as you can and after the play comes to an end, you should step down even if
there is no applause or encouraging response.
Take over duties with courage and step down when the time comes
One day, Confucius was commenting on his three disciples and one of his other
favourite students, Zi Gong asked: “Master, what about me?” Confucius replied:
“You are good stuff!” “What stuff, by the way?” Asked Zi Gong again. “A piece of
rare ancient jade!” Confucius responded.
Zi Gong was a capable and courageous man and once undertook the mission
of saving Lu Country from the brink of destruction. At first, Confucius intended to
take on this great task personally, but after persuasion from Zi Gong, he allowed his
disciple to act on his behalf. However, after doing this great job, Zi Gong refused
to accept high-ranking official post and money as rewards. Hence Confucius
commended him as a humble gentleman who had high integrity and as precious as
a piece of rare ancient jade.
Whenever there is an important task to be performed, it is not always easy to
take on the challenge. Thus, if one can accept this mission with great resilience and
is able to forget all about the honours after attaining great success, this person is
someone who should be highly respected and honoured. Under 47 years of Master
Cheng Yen’s spiritual leadership, the Tzu Chi volunteers used to be the first people
who responded instantly to international disaster relief operations and the last batch
of relief volunteers to leave the scene. Because of this, Tzu Chi Foundation earned
08
2013 • 01
the international recognition of a charitable relief NGO. When Relief Services
Award was presented to Master Cheng Yen, she would refuse to accept this honour
and attributed this moment of glory to the great efforts contributed by Tzu Chi
volunteers worldwide.
Then, the humble Master would say: “Worldly matters have to be worked out
by all members of the global community. Although the credit was awarded to Cheng
Yen, the actual honours should be attributed to all Tzu Chi people.” However, she
added: “An award accredited means a further spurring towards advancement. So,
from now onwards, every member of our Tzu Chi community should work harder
than before.”
In October, 2011 the American FDR Distinguished Public Service
Award was presented to Dharma Master Cheng Yen. In the same year, she was
conferred an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humanities by the University of the
East, Manila, Philippines. Every time the Master was awarded an accreditation for humanity contributions,
she would take it with a composed demeanor and attributed all the great efforts to the
global Tzu Chi community. Because of her humble character, the Dharma Master
is highly commended by all people around the world and, of course, the global Tzu
Chi community. This respected outstanding model role of Master Cheng Yen is
evidently a living example of the saying: “Shoulder duties that come your way;
forget honours that carry you away!”
TZU CHI 35
09
FEATURE
Care & Love
Two Decades of Undivided
“Lit a lamp at the darkest corners; and make a fire by the frostbitten roads!”
Under the spiritual leadership of Master Cheng Yen, Tzu Chi’s charitable
missions which stressed on the basis of “Undivided Compassion and Lovingkindness” have eventually humanized Buddhadharma and created “Humanized
Bodhisattvas”, thus putting the spirit of Orthodox Buddhism – benevolence,
compassion, sympathetic joy and giving – into everyday practice.
Written & Compiled by Gan Chian Nee, Tan Siew Chern & Tan Kim Hion • Translated by: K.K. Wong
Source: Tzu Chi Website • Photographs by Tzu Chi Documentary Team
10
2013 • 01
I
n year 1966, the 29-year old Master Cheng Yen founded the Buddhist Tzu-Chi Merit
Society in the impoverished region of mountainous Hualien in Taiwan. Advocating
on the basis of “Undivided Compassion and Loving-kindness”, Master Cheng Yen and
her founding members who were only four disciples and 30 followers, used to explore
into the darkest corners of the society to tender caring love to the sick and poor. Hence,
from Hualien, Tzu Chi eventually extended its great love across the globe and in 2012
moving tirelessly into its 46th year. Until today, the Tzu Chi people are still personally
extending undivided care and love to the sick and underprivileged around the world.
Basing on past experience with regards to response to disasters relief and aids
distributing operations, the Tzu Chi relief teams categorized their relief agenda into
three main systematic procedures – disasters surveys and evaluation, inventories
making and aids distributing. To long-term care-recipients, they have carefully
scheduled periodical visits and timely aids. Hence, this has been their standard disaster
response relief procedures for all these years. In the process of home visits, providing
aids and follow-up care-giving, the Tzu Chi Volunteers are always extending their most
sincere support and care to the care-recipients, materially and spiritually.
In year 2013 which coincided with the 20th anniversary of Tzu Chi Foundation
in Malaysia, we will lead you into our eventful past where Tzu Chi showered
loving-kindness into the darkest and neglected corners of the Malaysian society,
particularly in Central and Southern Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, helping
the underprivileged to pull through difficult times. The places most frequented by the
Tzu Chi community are the Machap Baru Old Folks Home, Melaka, KKB Taman
Sinar Harapan in Kuala Kubu Bharu and The Valley of Hope in Sungai Buloh
Leprosy Centre, both in Selangor respectively. The routine tasks undertaken by Tzu
Chi volunteers included bringing joy and laughter to amuse the dull inhabitants there;
general cleaning up, feeding the old folks or the physically impaired, giving them
haircuts, clean shaving, entertainment and most of all, spiritual support.
TZU CHI 35
11
f
eature
David Liu and Echo Chien.
Looking back at those heartwarming years
In year 1988, a couple from Taiwan – David Liu and Echo
Chien – arrived in Melaka to set up a garment manufacturing
plant. To encourage the factory workers to do good deeds,
they organized a team called “Home of Charity” to collect
funds to be donated to the needy through the local Media.
In late year 1991, Echo Chien returned to Taiwan and
was deeply inspired by Tzu Chi after reading a “Tzu Chi
Monthly” in a beauty salon. In July, 1992 Echo led the “Home
of Charity” Team which comprised of Lim Geok Choe (the
current CEO of Tzu Chi Melaka) and other members to
participate in a Buddhist seminar “Buddhism heartens the
Human World” organized by Tzu Chi volunteers in Melaka.
Hence thereafter, all members of the “Home of Charity”
decided to follow the charitable footsteps of Tzu Chi by not
only providing financial aids to the needy but also visiting
them personally and extending loving care.
Lim Geok Choe first knew of Machap Baru Old Folks
Home, which was urgently in need of help through her
mother-in-law. So, on October 10, 1992 a team of more than
30 factory workers went to carry out general cleaning up in
this neglected corner of the society and listed it at the top of
their agenda in social service.
In the earlier stages of charitable missions
conducted in Melaka, members of the
Home of Charity used to follow the footprints of Tzu Chi in paying visits to the Old
Folks Home. Picture showed Lim Geok
Choe wiping the body of an old man in
Machap Baru Old Folks Home.
The shabby wooden hut with coarsely finishing cemented floor; rows of old wooden
beds lying irregularly side by side, cobwebs all over the crossbeams and an offensive stench
emitting from the lavatory… “Oh, how awful and dark it is!” exclaimed one of our members.
“Why don’t we put on sunglasses so that we can’t see things clearly while washing
the toilet?” responded Lim Geok Choe. This had ever since been a popular and interesting
dialogue even until now.
Lim Geok Choe remembered on one occasion that a fuming, aged Chinese lady
blocked the entrance of the Old Folks Home with a broom and shouted in Hakka dialect:
“I am more than eighty years old and have never seen anyone helping out people in this
way. This is impossible and there must be something fishy going on!” So, the volunteers
had to go away for the time being, but not for good – the pure intention to tender care to the
inhabitants of the Old Folks Home was never abandoned.
12
2013 • 01
h
Care & Love
Two Decades of Undivided
Showering two decades of undivided love, Tzu Chi volunteers have become an indispensable role in the
life of every resident in Machap Baru Old Folks Home. This is a group photo of the old folks and Tzu Chi
volunteers taken during Chinese New Year Reunion Gathering on January 8, 2012.
For the past two decades, the occupants of the Old Folks Home silently witnessed
the untiring efforts contributed by the Tzu Chi community – general cleaning up, bathing
the physically impaired, catering meals for them, coordinating TIMA medical teams to
provide them with medical attention, holding Buddha-bathing events, Lantern Festival
events, Eve-of-CNY feasts, birthday celebrations and organizing children volunteers to
perform singing and dancing activities and as little masseurs for the senior citizens. All
these contributions without expecting for returns eventually made the elderly occupants
dispelling distrust towards the volunteers and accepted them as trustworthy people who
came to care for them. The senior citizens even entrusted their funeral undertaking funds
to Tzu Chi.
Donating life savings to accumulate good karma
Years of committed services to the Old Folks Homes had brought closer rapport between
the elderly residents and the Tzu Chi volunteers and it was heartening to see the senior
TZU CHI 35
13
f
eature
citizens helping one another instead of their previous selfish attitudes. Hence, some old
residents who still walked about steadily, assisted in little chores like minor cleaning up,
boiling drinking water for everyone and hanging out laundry to dry in the sun. Others
would enjoy pushing a cart loaded with meals and distributed to fellow seniors.
On June 29, 2000 the late 74-year old Grandpa Zhou Su passed away; the following
year Grandpa Ou Yang Chang Liu died due to illness. Grandpa Zhou left behind more than
RM1,000; while Grandpa Ou Yang had a life savings of about RM10,000. Both senior
residents had entrusted their money to Tzu Chi to manage their funeral expenses and to
donate the residue of their bequest to charity so as to benefit more unfortunate people.
Another elderly, 70-year old Grandma Yan Fu Niang said: “Money kept in my room
might sooner or later be stolen. It is better for me to donate to Tzu Chi to help others.” And
so, she had made up her mind to donate once every year.
Recycling veteran
At around eight in the morning, 65-year old occupant, Lai Tan Qing used to cycle around
town looking for recyclables at nearby stores. This had been a usual sight in Machap Baru.
At the right side of the Old Folks Home main entrance, there was a recycling hut which
housed recyclables collected from the shops. Recycling veteran Lai was always seen
sorting out recyclables all by himself. Sometimes, he was assisted by another old folk Yan
Jin Xing.
Since 2000, the recycling activity was first initiated by old folks, Grandpa Dai Niang
Sui. In 2007 when he passed away, the responsibility was taken over by Grandpa Qiu Ya
An and later the present old folk Lai Tan Qing.
In November, 2005 as the recyclables in the Old Folks Home were increasing day
by day, the Melaka Municipal Council voluntarily built a small recycling house at the side
of the Old Folks Home. However, all occupants of the Old Folks Home had sternly made
it clear that the recyclables would only be given to Tzu Chi and not the Municipal Council.
Granpa Lai Tan Qing (left)
handing recyclable items to Tzu
Chi. His fellow housemate, Jin
Xing sometimes helped him to
load the items onto the volunteers’ lorry.
14
2013 • 01
Care & Love
Two Decades of Undivided
Those were the days when we first visited KKB Sinar Harapan
“On June 25, 1995 five of us were travelling in a car heading for Kuala Kubu Baru Taman
Sinar Harapan (KKB-SH). On reaching our destination, we found the environment
extremely deplorable and the occupants there awful. I have noted down my experience in
my note book – It is awful and the most hellish place I have ever been!” This was the most
unforgettable day in Volunteer Cheam Yuet Mei’s life.
We were shocked to see so many sick people bedridden in metal beds spreading
across the hallway. It seemed that practically all physically impaired people were destined
to be abandoned here – some had atrophy of limbs, with mouths askew and some lied
silently on bed while one or two were firmly tied to their beds. Most of all, the extreme
stench emitting from these unfortunate people was quite unbearable and the poor sight of
some of them who were naked or wearing untidy clothes made us feel so saddening. These
occupants, regardless of race and age, were forsaken by the society for too long time so
much so that they seemed to lose the skills of communications.
The most disturbing factor which Yuet Mei could not tolerate was the howling of the
patients which sounded like animals. The bodies and beds of these poor people were filthy
and some smeared with stool. So, she had to hold her breath and left as fast as she could.
On the journey home, every one of us lamented that the KKB-SH was indeed the most
hellish place on earth.
“However, we would not bear to forsake these unfortunate people. Hence, after
reflecting the situation of the KKB-SH to Tzu Chi, we intended to recruit more than a
dozen volunteers to help provide a ‘facelift’ to the environment and the ‘Bodhisattvas’
(occupants) there. When we first took up the responsibility of ‘hair-dressers’, we were
quite disturbed because their hair were long and filthy and ‘infested’ with lice. After the
hair-cuts, we left hastily.”
TZU CHI 35
15
f
eature
Eighteen years passed by just in the wink of an eye. The KKB-SH had already
experienced a thorough facelift – the unsightly surrounding bushes and trees were cut and
cleared and several small wayside pavilions were built in the compound. Besides, many
kinds of colourful flowers were planted all around the area. Despite being much cleaner
than before, the stench was yet looming in the air across the hallway.
Above all, a fact which delighted Yuet Mei most was the occupants in KKB-SH who
were more responsive than before. “We would usually sing and perform sign-language
activities. Whether they were able to hear or otherwise, we would be encouraging them
with pats on their backs.”
Ah Zhen chanted: Amitabha!
On the other hand, there was an occupant who had atrophy of the limbs. She was Ah Zhen.
On normal days, this unlucky lady could only yell aloud and had never uttered a proper
word in her life. Yuet Mei never expected her to chant “Amitabha”! As she chanted, a broad
satisfying grin was seen over her face. Everyone present were overjoyed, because Great
Love had finally made this Bodhisattva came alive and smiled. However, she departed in
year 2011 and was fondly remembered by the volunteers, particularly Yuet Mei.
Now, the volunteers’ have a fixed appointment with the ‘Bodhisattvas’ of KKB-SH
on the second Sunday of every month. Although the folks cannot figure out when the exact
date is, yet they are able to sense the approaching of this Great Love day. Usually, they
would loiter around the small pavilions in the garden waiting for the volunteers to turn
up. When the volunteers arrived, welcoming them would not be the sound of howling
animals anymore, but smiling faces and enthusiastic body language. In the past, some of
the volunteers who first visited KKB-SH took pity on these unfortunate people and wept
silently; others held their breath and rushed out due to the unbearable stench inside the
house. There were some volunteers who could not eat and sleep well after returning home.
Whenever the volunteers visited Ah Zhen,
she would put her palms together and
sent regards to them. Sometimes she
would utter: “Amituofo”. Picture showing
interactions between Chiam Yuet Mei
(right) and Ah Zhen.
16
2013 • 01
Care & Love
Two Decades of Undivided
Turning hellish place into the Valley of Hope
During the Nineteen Seventies and Eighties in Malaysia,
leprosy was a dreaded disease feared and despised by the local
society. Whenever a person contracted this incurable disease
(at that time) this patient would be isolated and sheltered in
a recuperating home for the rest of his or her life. Leprosy,
despite being under control in the Nineteen Nineties, was still
feared by the local people so much so that those patients who
had recovered were not readily accepted by the community.
This had also inflicted a spiritual trauma on the patients.
Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur has been continuously
extending care to the Sungai Buloh Leprosy Centre (SBLC)
for 18 consecutive years. The second Sunday of every month
is a fixed date of visit by the Tzu Chi volunteers to the
Being unable to exercise simple basic self-care
routines, this bedridden old folk had to rely on the
help of others. Whenever the volunteers visited,
they would provide hair-cuts, general manicure and
shaving services to the old folks here.
SBLC. The activities in this routine visits included providing
hair-cuts and simple manicure services, distributions and
interaction with these forsaken inhabitants of our society.
Grandma Wang Mu Lan, aged 76, became a leper as
a result of flesh-eating-bacterial attack on her face. She had
undergone a cosmetic surgery which nearly took away her
life. “Frankly speaking, I am very grateful to all of you Tzu
Chi people; you help me a lot!” Grandma Wang concluded
that if not because of the Tzu Chi people, she might have
gone desperate and never see the light of tomorrow.
Every year before the Chinese New Year approaches, Tzu Chi volunteers would dress up like the ‘God
of Fortune’ to deliver red packets and send best
wishes to the old folks in Sungai Buloh Leprosy
Centre.
As early as in year 1997, Grandma Wang who learned
Chinese Language through self-study, had read about Dharma
Master Cheng Yen and her charitable deeds like building
hospitals, doing recycling and involving in international
disasters relief operations. In spite of being a Christian, she
was deeply moved by the Master’s act of loving-kindness.
She never dreamt that this Great Love which she read about
has now been translated into action and showered upon her.
She remembered she saw a group of people wearing
navy blue shirts and white pants entering the SBLC and
To enable this physically impaired grandma to take
part in Tzu Chi gatherings, volunteers ferried her on
a chair to the scene right away.
TZU CHI 35
17
f
eature
The old folks of the Sungai Buloh Leprosy Centre are always looking forward to the regular visits of Tzu
Chi volunteers.
distributing items and helping patients and talking to them. Just as she was deeply absorbed
in watching the activities of these people, she was taken aback when given a surprised
hug by a lady volunteer who greeted her pleasantly. “At that particular moment, I was too
shocked to say anything. As my face is so ugly, no one would ever come near me. And, yet
the lady volunteer hugged me so naturally.” She was deeply touched as the Tzu Chi people
were here to tender care to her.
“The Tzu Chi people practice Great Love and even treated horrendous people like
me so kindly!” The deeply moved Grandma Wang decided to donate a little money for
charity after learning about the Tzu Chi charitable practice and its origins.
Not far from the SBLC, the local government allocated a piece of land to the leprosy
patients who had recovered to start over a new life again. Walking towards this settlement
through narrow winding paths, we first came across Grandpa Lin Dou’s hut. Ever since
then, the volunteers have made use of the vacant space in front of Grandpa Lin’s hut to
hold friendly gatherings, Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner, Buddha-bathing activities,
Parent’s Day and other festive celebrations.
18
2013 • 01
Care & Love
Two Decades of Undivided
To the 91-year old Grandpa Lin, he lamented: “Ever since being declared a dreaded
leprosy patient, I was isolated from my family members and left to lead a lonely life for
the rest of my declining years.” So, there was no reunion dinners, no family gatherings for
the poor old man for decades. “Now, whenever there is a festival, the Tzu Chi people will
organize dinners and gatherings to make us happy.”
For those who are permanent residents of the SBLC and its settlement, everyone
is looking forward to the annual Tzu Chi Year-end Blessing Ceremony. On this special
occasion, all SBLC residents will have a get-together dinner with the Tzu Chi volunteers.
For the past years, the Tzu Chi volunteers even sent these old residents to meet carerecipients in other regions. However, to prevent the aged people from feeling tired due to
travelling, this festive gathering is usually held in the local assembly hall in recent years.
The Tzu Chi people had eventually led the dreaded residents of the SBLC out of the
blues – from hellish circumstances to the valley of hope. In fact, these residents are just as
human as those in the civilized community and they should not be forsaken and should be
respected as members of the society.
Once there was someone who asked
Master Cheng Yen: “Why didn’t Tzu
Chi build Old Folks Homes?” The
Master replied that she hoped that
every family is an Old Folks Home
so that the children can do their part
by serving their parents in return,
giving them the best care and quality
life. The Master also advised young
people to respect their parents and
all elderly people and to treat them
as if they were “Living Buddhas”.
Nevertheless, the basis of the
Tzu Chi spirit is to aid the needy, the
emphasis still lies in inspiring every
individual to carry out acts of virtues
and to shower loving-kindness on
others.
TZU CHI 35
19
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Tzu Chi Scholarship Scheme
Nurtures Wholesome Students,
Academically and Morally
Compiled by Hew Kwee Heong
Translated by Translating Team
Since 1997, Tzu Chi Melaka, Tzu Chi K.L. & Selangor and
other Tzu Chi sub-branches distributed educational aids to
children from humble backgrounds every year, hoping to
ease their families’ financial burden, particularly at the start
of the academic year.
This year, Tzu Chi Melaka has devised a “Scholarship
Awards Scheme” to replace the previous “Study Grant
Scheme”, which had been implemented for many years.
The objective of this new scheme is to tap potentials and
to compliment the outstanding qualities of underprivileged
students, both academically and morally.
T
zu Chi Melaka’s Teachers’ Association
initiated the Study Grant for the Poor in 1997.
Liaison Offices in central and southern Peninsular
Malaysia and East Malaysia consecutively
more than 10,000 applications in year 2012. So,
with this alarming increase, the volunteers needed
many months to conduct school and home visits.
In the new Scholarship Awards Scheme, the
followed suit.
three categories of awards - Filial Piety Award,
management of the scheme and extended the
were presented in year 2012. These awards were
Later, the Charity Unit took over the
coverage to include students from other races and
children of care-recipients. In 2008, the scheme
was renamed “Seeds of Hope” Study Grant.
Volunteers were delegated to visit selected schools,
followed by home visits.
According to the staff of the Charity Unit at
Tzu Chi KL & Selangor, Chan Bee Peng, there were
20
2013 • 01
Morality Award and Vast Improvement Award -
aimed at encouraging students from primary and
secondary schools to study hard besides doing
good deeds. Recipients were awarded cash prizes
plus a voucher to purchase school uniforms, shoes,
school bags and the like from designated school
supply stores. They were also given medical
cards to enable them and their immediate family
[Photograph by Kam How Chan]
members to get free medical attention at the Tzu
Primary School, indicated that 80% of her students
CEO of Tzu Chi KL & Selangor, Echo
parents usually face financial difficulties at the
Chi Free Clinic in Pudu.
Chien, disclosed in her speech that the three new
awards were meant to encourage and recognize
efforts by the students from low income groups,
so as to mould them into responsible citizens later
are from low income families. As such, many
beginning of the academic year. She was very
grateful that the Study Grant met the timely needs
of these families.
Madam Li believed the merit awards were
on in life. Moreover, this will also help to nurture
significant and would serve as incentives for
She said, “If a teacher is so mindful
importance of education. For idle students, this
more outstanding students in schools.
in recommending a student as recipients of
meritorious awards, this teacher deserves to
bright students who do not really understand the
might give them some sort of a boost up.
Fifty-nine
students
from
her
school
be highly respected.” She was very grateful to
received the merit awards. Chen Yin Xi, a
Tzu Chi could forge closer ties with all schools
Vast Improvement Award, has shown significant
teachers for their great efforts and hoped that
in future. Apart from that, she also called on
dedicated teachers from other ethnical groups to
join Tzu Chi’s charitable activities.
Significance of the new awards
Li Xiu Yan, Deputy Headmistress of Yuk Chyun
student recommended by his teacher for the
changes within a short frame of time. In class,
he used to listen attentively and asked questions
frequently. So far, he could complete all the
homework given by teachers promptly.
Yin Xi’s words of gratefulness for his
mother’s upbringing touched her deeply. The
TZU CHI 35
21
E vent
Chen Yin Xi from Yuk Chyun Primary School (middle) received The Vast Improvement Awards. Teacher Zhang Ni
Ni (left) witnessed the award giving ceremony and was very
pleased with him. On the right is his mother who shared
this proud moment with him. [Photograph by Lim Su Nguan]
overjoyed mother said, “Yin Xi has shown great
improvement lately. Teachers used to complain to
me that he was not concentrating in class and did
not do his homework well; so I always advise him
on the importance of education. However, I am very
Grant Scheme (while targeting applicants from
words. His teachers’ encouragement worked and
to adopt the Scholarship Awards Scheme which
pleased he has heeded my advice and his father’s
he is now a changed person. I am proud of him.”
Twenty-two
“Study
Grant-cum-Award
Presentation Ceremony” were held at various
primary and secondary schools throughout Kuala
low-income families); and reached a consensus
included looking into each family’s financial
status and the students’ academic performance and
conduct at school and at home.
School Inspectors and teachers also attended
Lumpur and Selangor on October 28, November
the presentation ceremony. Melaka’s Chinese
schools, Tzu Chi’s Study Grant Scheme has
commended this Scholarship Awards Scheme
4 & 11, 2012. Through the joint efforts of 555
benefitted 7,754 students.
Melaka’s 1st Scholarship Awards Presentation
Ceremony
All students who qualified for Tzu Chi Melaka’s
Scholarship Awards this year certainly have
commendable qualities.
After conducting respective evaluations,
628 successful applicants were invited to the
Scholarship Awards Presentation Ceremony held
Primary Schools’ Inspector, Han Bin Yuan, highly
that focused on the academic and humanistic
development of the children concerned.
Mr Han said, “Although our society needs
a lot of technical specialists, I do believe we even
need more virtuous people in our community.
Here I saw encouragement was given to students
not only for their academic improvement but also
for their conduct. In this way, the children’s selfconfidence will be nurtured in a healthy manner.”
on December 9, 2012, at Melaka Jing-Si Hall.
The advantages of encouragement and awards
Award, Excellent Academic Achievement Award,
are placing too much emphasis on their children’s
The awards included Filial Piety Award, Morality
Teacher Lam Yen Nee found that parents today
Vast Improvement Award, Extra-curricular Award
academic performance instead of their moral deve-
and Full Attendance Award.
In the past two years, the Malaysian
Government has implemented several funding
schemes for students from low-income groups.
Tzu Chi Melaka thus decided to revise its Study
22
2013 • 01
lopment. This has also resulted in children competing
for better results instead of helping each other.
Tzu Chi’s Scholarship Awards Scheme gave
her an opportunity to pay more attention to the
children recommended for the scheme.
Left: Teacher Lam Yen Nee witnessed the positive change
in her student, Wu Qi Zhong, after he was recommended for
the award. [Photograph by Yong Siew Lee]
Right: Pay Fong High School student, Gu Yuan Xiang, is an
academic achiever and an active member of her school’s
Symphonic Band. [Photograph by Lee Kin Chee]
her school’s Symphonic Band.
Despite being a truck driver, Yuan Xiang’s
father hopes to provide his children with higher
Her school’s Standard 2 class monitor, Han
education. He said, “I did not receive proper
this short-coming, Yen Nee recommended him
in their studies. I thank the teachers and Tzu Chi
worked as Jian Chou has become prudent of his
Yuan Xiang has 4 siblings and is fortunate
Jian Chou, used to be bossy. To help him rectify
education but all my children are doing very well
for the Morality Awards. She found that her tactic
for their encouragement.”
speech and actions.
to be studying at Pay Fong (a private school). She
Zhong, was an introvert child, so Teacher Yen Nee
and the small booklet served as a reminder for her
Qi Zhong to help others. With the introduction of
column about helping out with household chores.
student were frequent and normalized. As a result,
was reminded to help my mother first!”
her and also assisted her in class.
that the study grant and scholarship, which conveys
to sit beside a student unpopular among his
as an encouragement to those underprivileged
encourage him and guide him in his homework.
their future undertakings.
Another student of Teacher Yen Nee, Wu Qi
said the award is an affirmation of her hard work,
shared the Jing-Si Aphorisms in class to encourage
to excel. She said, “In the booklet, there is one
this Scheme, interactions between teacher and
Every time, when I wanted to tick the column, I
Qi Zhong was inclined to discuss problems with
It is the sincere hope of Tzu Chi volunteers
Apart from that, Qi Zhong also volunteered
love and blessing from many people, can serve
classmates. By doing so, Qi Zhong could
students to move on courageously in materializing
As Qi Zhong’s parents are divorced, he
stays with his grandmother. His grandma, who
accompanied him to the presentation ceremony,
said that he is also a good assistant at home.
Teacher Yen Nee witnessed the changes in
these children due to encouragement and praises!
The children have also grown to be more confident.
Booklet serves as a reminder
Extra-curricular Award recipient, Gu Yuan Xiang,
is an academic achiever, and an active member of
[Photograph by Ng Chee Khoon]
TZU CHI 35
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“The Rain & Dew Waltz”
– Night of Great Love
Reported by Tzu Chi Documenting Team
Compiled by Hew Kwee Heong
Translated by Translating Team
Four film screening sessions of the “Night of Great Love”
were held in Seremban, Melaka and Kuala Lumpur from
December 20-22, 2012 to promote this Da Ai TV drama
series, “The Rain & Dew Waltz” alongside with its theme
songs in the form of DVDs and CDs. About 4,000 people
attended the film screening.
Apart from the gracing presence of the actual persons
(portrayed in the “The Rain & Dew Waltz”), David Liu
and Echo Chien, other special guests who attended the
function included the drama’s lead actor and actress, Su
Bin Xian and Fang Wen Lin, Producer Ann Chen, Theme
Song singer-cum-composer, Yi Jet Qi and known host, Chen
Kai Lun.
he 40-episode Da Ai TV series - “The Rain
which was co-organized by Tzu Chi Seremban
from September 20 to October 30, 2012. Produced
David and Echo face-to-face and the artistes of
T
& Dew Waltz” - was screened on Da Ai TV
by Taiwan Da Ai TV, it features the real life story
of David Liu, former CEO of Tzu Chi Melaka and
Singapore, and his wife, Echo Chien, the current
and Tampin. Everyone was excited to get to see
“The Rain & Dew Waltz”.
Nostalgic feeling of homecoming
CEO of Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur & Selangor.
On December 21, the touring retrospective team
Love held on December 20 at the Royale Bintang
former employees of David Liu and Echo Chien
The film screening of the Night of Great
Resort & Spa, Seremban, marked the beginning
of this touring retrospective in Malaysia and
Singapore. Twelve chartered buses transported
fans from Tampin and the outskirts of Seremban
to attend the screening of the Night of Great Love
24
2013 • 01
was at Melaka Pay Fong Auditorium Hall. Many
were present at this occasion, including current
CEO of Tzu Chi Melaka, Lim Geok Choe and
others like Soon Kwai Chan, Kee Lee Hoon, Yap
Poh Long, Xu Hong Xia and Xiong Wang Yuan;
most of whom are also Tzu Chi volunteers.
(From right to left) Lim Geok Choe, Echo Chien, David Liu,
Ann Chen, Fang Wen Lin and Su Bin Xian. [Photograph by
Lee Kin Chee]
Also present was Tzu Chi Melaka’s first
care-recipient, 76-year old Zheng Jin Long.
Although visually-impaired, Grandpa Zheng is
still very cheerful and leads a frugal life. He loves
to sing, and was always invited to sing on stage at
some of Tzu Chi’s earlier distribution events. On
this particular occasion, he sang his famous oldie
song, “You Are So Beautiful”; so fond memories of
the past suddenly seemed to swarm into the minds
of those present.
Zheng Jin Long (on wheelchair) singing his famous oldie,
“You Are So Beautiful”. [Photograph by Yong Siew Lee]
As former Supervisor of Up-Central
Garment, Yap Poh Long was a Tzu Chi volunteer
Inspired artistes
He revealed that being present at this event had
Xian to the local audience in Melaka. He said
in the earlier days; but had quit for some reasons.
“I am back!” uttered Taiwanese actor, Su Bin
brought back fond memories of happier days
he experienced a strong sense of “homecoming”
which he and his colleagues had gone through.
“I regretted leaving Tzu Chi for so long. The
decoration and everything I see here today are so
heartwarming. I am coming back!” he said in an
emotional tone.
when he set foot again in Melaka. Bin Xian, who
portrayed David Liu, was in Melaka last year for
the drama shooting.
In order to play the role and character of
David Liu successfully, Bin Xian did a lot of
TZU CHI 35
25
E vent
homework by getting familiarized with his family
background, simulating his usual gestures and
trying to put himself in the shoes of David. After
several meet-ups with David Liu, Bin Xian was so
impressed with his spirit of selfless giving that he
signed up for the Volunteer Training Programme
and became a Tzu Chi volunteer.
With a deep bow to volunteers, the humble
Bin Xian said, “Thank you, my friends from
Malaysian singer-cum-songwriter, Yi Jet Qi. [Photograph
by Leong Chian Yee]
requests!”
commitment and resourcefulness shown by Tzu
composed the theme song of “The Rain & Dew
them during the shooting.
welled in my eyes after listening to the story of
role of Ong Tuen Yiok, the person-in-charge of
Chen.” He was deeply impressed by the couple’s
he knew about the Foundation and its missions for
deemed meaningful. Yi Jet Qi, who is currently
KL Da Ai Educare, he was a little worried about
couple’s feeling and story which made him self-
successfully. However, he is still looking forward
Melaka, for being so accommodating to my past
Malaysian singer-cum-songwriter, Yi Jet Qi
Chi volunteers in accomplishing tasks given to
Waltz” and “Feeling of Love”. He said, “Tears
Malaysian actor, Jordan Voon played the
David Liu and his wife related by Producer, Ann
Tzu Chi Kota Kinabalu in the drama. Although
determination in pursuing the goal which they
many years as his son had previously studied at
pursuing his career abroad, said he truly shared the
not being able to simulate the role of Brother Ong
reflected upon himself.
to act for Da Ai TV series if he is offered an
opportunity again.
A heartwarming Press Conference
Apart from two film screening sessions of “Night
of Great Love” at Dewan Wawasan Convention &
“Life is but a play!” All Da Ai TV series were
Lumpur & Selangor held a Press Conference to
stories. It is hoped that these true stories will help
CDs.
the experience of others. Apart from drama series,
Exhibition Centre on December 22, Tzu Chi Kuala
basically extracted and created from real life
promote “The Rain & Dew Waltz” DVDs and
educate the viewers so that they can learn through
Present at the Press Conference were
Da Ai TV also produces many educational,
series, Sam Ooi and several other local artistes.
disseminate loving-kindness and peace-loving
Malaysian Assistant Director of this Da Ai TV
informative and inspiring programmes so as to
Sam Ooi was truly amazed by the tolerance, full
concepts to the audience.
26
2013 • 01
Significant Graduation Ceremonies
at Da Ai Educare Centres
Reported by Documenting Team
Compiled by Hew Kwee Heong
Translated by Translating Team
Melaka and Kuala Lumpur Da Ai Educare Centres staged
the “Water Repentance” performances at their recent
graduation day ceremonies respectively. Although it was a
painstaking task to prepare for the event, the teachers did
not mind putting in extra effort as they knew very well that
this will benefit the children in the long run.
O
n November 16, 2012, Melaka Da Ai
My child is more matured now!
Educare Centre held its 11th Graduation
According to the mother, Zhu Qin Yin and father,
the “Water Repentance” Sutra Adaptation for
tempered and rude little girl. However, after
Day Ceremony at Melaka Jing-Si Hall and staged
the 2nd consecutive year in conjunction with
the graduation celebrations, involving active
participation from all its 125 students in the
performance. Besides the kindergarten children,
Wen Wei Yuan, Wen Xiu Zhen used to be a hot-
receiving 3 years of education at Da Ai Educare
Centre, she has transformed herself into an
obedient girl.
14 primary students from the After School Care
Class also joined the performance.
The songs were adapted and composed from
the “Water Repentance Text”, a Buddhist Sutra
written by Master Wu Da of the Tang Dynasty.
As the meanings in the Buddhist texts seemed
too profound to the children, the teachers had to
use various methods to explain to them patiently,
particularly about the meanings of Karma and
Karma Retributions.
Xiu Zhen and her parents. [Photograph by Yong Siew Lee]
TZU CHI 35
27
E vent
The little performers and their parents invited members of the audience to participate in the singing and “Great Repentance” sign-language performance. [Photograph by Yeon Hon Kin]
On her birthday, she did not request for
a present, but instead thanked her mother for
endowing her with a healthy body and further
wished that the world would become a peaceful
performing sign-language on stage! They even
pledged to protect animals and Mother Earth by
observing a vegetarian diet.
Class representatives, Xu Wen Xin, Guo
and disaster-free place to live in. On hearing
Si Ting and Zeng Shan Wen delivered their
Tzu Chi’s education is good and beneficial to his
English respectively.
this, her grateful father quickly commended that
children as it is exercising positive and virtuous
influence over the growing children.
Kuala
Lumpur Da Ai Educare Centre held
its 5th Graduation Day Ceremony at New Era
graduation day speeches in Mandarin, Malay and
Shortly after the cute speeches was the
musical Sutra adaptation performance. With a
starry night sky as the backdrop with 6 pieces of
lazurite statues of Buddha glowing luminously,
the children performed the “Water Repentance”,
College’s Auditorium Hall on December 9. All its
while chanting and singing “One Perfect, Bright
to an audience of 457. It was truly a memorable
in Dream”, “Repentance for All Past Follies” and
75 students presented a musical Sutra adaptation
and Inherent Nature”, “Experiencing the 6 Realms
graduation day ceremony for the 16 students.
“Making Vows with Utmost Sincerity”.
slideshow of the graduating students. One could
their parents performed the “Great Repentance”
The ceremony began with a photo flashback
To end the show, the graduating students and
witness that these little 4 years old kids, who
sign-language together, while inviting members of
have now transformed into little gentlemen and
Since early this year, the children had begun
refused to attend class on the first day of school,
cute little ladies who showed their talents by
28
2013 • 01
the audience to join in.
studying the “Water Repentance” Sutra Adaptation
while their parents were also invited to join in. The
heart is beautiful, everything you see is beautiful!”
in the vicinity.
the invitation. Shan Wen used to quote Jing-Si
Sutra study class was organized by the volunteers
Apart from that, all children from the Da Ai
Educare Centre participated in the vegetarian
diet campaign, which was fully supported by
So, Madam Luo had no excuses but to accept
Aphorisms whenever her parents were in the heat
of arguments and it usually proved effective.
their respective parents. After 7 months, a total of
Parting seems sad for the kids
by the students and parents.
her teachers very much and was not going home
59,603 vegetarian meals were faithfully observed
The kids’ first-ever proud moment in life
To grace the occasion, Deputy CEO of Tzu Chi K.
L. & Selangor, Song Quek Khian, performed the
“turning of the tassel ceremony” and presented the
graduation certificates to the children.
The 16 certificate-recipients bowed cour-
teously to their teachers and then knelt down to
show their first-ever certificate to their parents.
Zeng Shan Wen’s mother, Luo Yue Xin
disclosed that when Shan Wen was picked to
Liu Yong Ni said between sobs that she would miss
after the ceremony; while, Lin Qian Yu held her
teacher tight and cried. Her father, Lin Chang Jin
commended: “All children at Da Ai Kindergarten
are kind and courteous. Wouldn’t it be nice if there
is a Tzu Chi Primary School here?”
Consequently, it is hoped that the 3 years of
Great Love education in Tzu Chi could germinate
loving-kindness in the hearts of these children and
nurture them into useful and compassionate people
in time to come.
deliver the graduation speech in English, she was
rather reluctant at first. But after hearing the JingSi Aphorism – “One must overcome difficulties,
not be overcome by difficulties” – quoted by her
mother, Shan Wen finally overcame her fear and
did very well.
Madam Luo said she and her husband
decided to send Shan Wen to Da Ai Educare where
she could learn more about moral education. It
was a decision they have never regretted. When
Madam Luo was invited on stage for a sharing, she
was hesitant because she had a cosmetic surgery
to remove a mole on her face recently. But when
her daughter ‘quoted as lecturing’: “When your
Guo Si Ting courteously showing her certificate to her
parents. [Photograph by Leong Chian Yee]
TZU CHI 35
29
p
hoto News
Compiled by Kelvin Ting Kie Mei & Hew Kwee Heong • Translated by Translating Team
Kota Kinabalu’s
First Recycling Centre
Kota Kinaabalu 2012.11.03
Reported by Yong Chiew Fung
Photograph by Yong Sui Mee
The first Tzu Chi’s recycling centre
in
Kota
Kinabalu
was
officially
opened recently. The developer, Sinar
Pembangunan, has leased out the centre
to Tzu Chi Foundation at a token rental
fee of RM1/-. Senior citizens living in
the vicinity have been coming to this
centre since operational in July this year.
Sixty-year old Leong Soh Moi always
accompanies her husband to the centre.
Her husband had a stroke sometime ago
and so they treated recycling as a form of
exercise.
To Explore More about
the Beauty of Tzu Chi
Nineteen undergraduates from University
Pahang Malaysia were invited to explore
more about Tzu Chi and its missions at
an orientation tea-party held at Tzu Chi
Kuantan’s Office. Collegiate Youth, He
Jia Sheng realized how fortunate he is
after participated in home visits; while,
Chen Yong Qin said he must observe
filial piety and respect his parents, besides
practicing acts of virtues. Hopefully, these
young people will make good use of their
free time to serve others and learn the true
purpose in life.
30
2013 • 01
Kuantan 2012.11.24
Reported by Liew Min Xiu
Photograph by Ng Chi Keong
Photo News Photo News Photo News Photo News Photo News Photo News Photo News
Melaka 2012.11.28
Reported & Photograph by Tay Sok Ten
Kluang’s Teachers Study
TC’s Approach in Education
A 40-member visiting delegation
comprising of officers from Kluang
Education Department and kindergarten
teachers from Kluang were very impressed with Tzu Chi Kindergarten’s teaching
methods which inculcated the sense of
self-reliance and self-care in children.
Officer Wan Md. Zaini thanked Melaka
Education Department for facilitating
this visit. He encouraged the teachers to
emulate the examples shown by Tzu Chi
volunteers in instilling loving-kindness in
children and teaching them the positive
aspects and true purpose in life.
Selangor 2012.12.01
Reported by Lee You Ning
Photograph by Ong Siew Geok
Teaching Refugees to Do
Charity
Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur and Selangor’s
Collegiate Youth members taught the
children from a religious school for
Myanmar refugees in Selayang to make
bamboo coin banks after explaining its
origin. At the same time, the Collegiate
Youth invited the children to save money
so that they could help the victims of
US Hurricane Sandy. Picture shows the
delightful children holding the bamboo
banks they had made.
TZU CHI 35
31
p
hoto News
Caring for the Flood Victims
Continuous torrential rain from midNovember to early December had caused
flash flooding at Sungai Petai, Lukut,
Selayang and Linggi. Tzu Chi volunteers
living nearby immediately visited the
affected area where they provided food,
blankets and emergency cash, besides
comforting the distressed residents.
The flash flood, which came and went
so suddenly, had left a mess that will
take time to recover. From this disaster,
people should realize and understand
how our developments are related to
the environment, and the urgent need to
protect Mother Earth.
Year-end Photo Exhibition
Tzu Chi Klang’s Documenting Team
held their first photo exhibition-cum-
appreciation gathering on December 16
to thank the community volunteers for
providing them with information and
articles to be published in the Tzu Chi
websites and journals. The Documenting
Team were complimented for their hard
work in archiving the chronicles of Tzu
Chi. Many volunteers who attended this
thanksgiving get-together could appreciate their photographs and recollect the
meaningful moments in some of their
earlier charitable missions.
32
2013 • 01
Melaka, Selangor & N. Sembilan
2012.11.19-12.03
Reported by Documenting Team
Photograph by Tham Yok Seng
Klang 2012.12.16
Reported by Documenting Team
Photograph by Na LianTeck
TZU CHI 35
33
g lobal News
Compiled by Kelvin Ting Kie Mei • Translated by Hew Kwee Heong • Source: Taiwan Headquarters
Global News
Singapore 2012.11.17
Tzu Chi made its First
Appearance in the 8th SAC
Tzu Chi Singapore has been providing
aid and care to AIDS patients for the
past 15 years and its effort has eventually
gained recognition. For the first time,
the Foundation was invited to the 8th
Singapore AIDS Conference and allotted
an exhibition booth to promote Tzu Chi,
Thailand 2012.11.15
its Bamboo Coin Bank percepts and
Winter Relief at
Nan Province
Tzu
Chi
Thailand
Jing-Si Aphorisms. The Conference was
also attended by medical professionals,
and
Duangkaew
Foundation held a joint winter relief
distribution at Nan Province, located
about 660 km north of Bangkok. As it is
mountainous and the winter severely cold,
volunteers brought thermal blankets and
used clothes for the elderly, disabled and
poor people; and food and toys for the
students. The elderly people were grinning
happily when the volunteers applied lotion
on their hands, while the children could
not wait to see what were in the bags.
Global News
34
2013 • 01
scientists, researchers, policy makers and
volunteers from Hong Kong, Thailand,
Malaysia and other Asian countries.
Global News
Vietnam 2012.11.18
Global News
Study Grants for the Poor in
the Suburbs
This year, Tzu Chi Vietnam extended their
Study Grant Scheme to Binh Tan District in
the suburbs of Ho Chi Minh City. Through
home visits, the volunteers witnessed
the difficulties faced by the poor in the
suburbs. On November 18, a presentation
ceremony was held to distribute study
grants to 146 successful applicants. The
volunteers also promoted the concepts of
saving loose change in bamboo coin banks
for charity and environmental protection to
the participants.
New Zealand 2012.11.07-26
Hand-knitted Scarves for
the Old Folks
This year, Tzu Chi New Zealand’s
volunteers decided to hand-knit scarves as
Christmas gifts for the old folks in nursing
homes run by the Stroke Foundation in
New Zealand. Some 50 volunteers started
knitting the scarves since September
and finished making 460 pieces before
Christmas. These colourful hand-knitted
scarves were presented to the old folks
who were all very happy.
TZU CHI 35
35
g lobal News
Global News
Taiwan 2012.12.05-09
Tea Art and Flower
Arrangement Camps
The elementary and advanced JingSi Tea Art and Flower Arrangement
Camps were held at Tzu Chi’s Sanchong
Campus from December 5-9. Tzu Chi’s
Indonesia 2012.12.06
Jing-Si Hall Awarded by
FIABCI Indonesia
Indonesia Jing-Si Hall was awarded the
FIABCI Indonesia - BNI Prix d’Excellence Awards 2012 (Specialized Project
Category). Being a green building with
independent water and electricity supply,
Indonesia Jing-Si Hall can withstand an
earthquake measuring 9 on the Richter
scale. It is also currently the largest
emergency shelter in Indonesia. With
this award, it will represent Indonesia to
compete in the International FIABCI Prix
d’Excellence Awards in May 2013. The
Prix d’Excellence is often regarded as the
Oscars of the real estate industry.
Global News
36
2013 • 01
overseas volunteers were taught the art of
combining flower, tea and music to create
a mind pacifying environment. Apart
from acquiring skills and knowledge in
tea culture and flower arrangement, the
participants were greatly enlightened by
Jing-Si Aphorisms shared by the lecturers.
TZU CHI 35
37
d harma
Lecture by Dharma Master Cheng Yen
THE FOUR
CONSIDERATIONS
•
Consider the body as impure
•
Consider the senses as sources of suffering
•
Consider the mind as impermanent and
ever-changing
•
Consider all existence as impermanent
Consider all existence as
impermanent
Confined by perceptions
All living beings are attached to their
perceptions of the external world. Therefore,
the Buddha told the parable of the watchman.
There was a rich man who kept many
treasures in his house. One day he had to go
on a journey, so he hired a watchman to guard
his house. He repeatedly made it clear to the
watchman that there were a lot of valuables in
the house and that he should carefully guard the
door. The rich man knew that the watchman
was rather simple-minded and would only
do exactly as he was told, so he specifically
ordered the watchman to guard the door well,
so that the treasures inside the house would not
be stolen. In addition, he also had to guard the
donkey outside the house.
The watchman carried out his duty
seriously. He conscientiously guarded the door
and the donkey. One day, a neighbour invited
38
2013 • 01
dancers and singers for a joyous celebration. Hearing the beautiful music, the
watchman was drawn to go and watch the show. He still remembered that he
was supposed to guard the door and the donkey. After cracking his simple-
minded brain, he finally came up with a method he believed would satisfactorily
serve both his duties. He tied one end of a long rope to the door and the other
end to the donkey. Then he led the donkey with him to the neighbour’s show. As
the door and the donkey were tied up by the rope, he felt confident that he would
not lose either one.
With the donkey by his side, the watchman became completely absorbed
in the joyful dancing and music and had totally forgotten about the door at the
other end of the rope. When the rich man returned home, he did not see his
watchman, but found the door of his house wide open and a rope on the ground.
Following the rope, the rich man located the watchman and the donkey.
The rich man questioned the watchman why he had gone to the show
instead of guarding the door. The watchman argued that he had followed the rich
man’s instructions accordingly, and that not only the door but also the donkey
were both safe. The rich man pointed out, “What I wanted you to do was to
guard the treasures in my house, so that they would not be stolen. Although you
did not lose the door or the donkey, someone had opened the door and taken all
the treasures in the house.”
The Buddha warned his disciples: “Safeguard the door of your senses,
and don’t cling to the Six External Objects [sight, sound, scent, taste, touch
and ideas]. If you guard an ignorant donkey, you will become entangled in the
rope of desire. But many monks do not observe the precepts. They covet alms
and contributions. They pretend to be pure, but as they meditate in quiet places,
their minds are distracted by the Five Desires of wealth, sex, food, prestige and
laziness. Tempted by their senses, their hearts are covered by ignorance and
they are snared by the rope of love and desire. Right mindfulness, the will to
enlightenment, the level of spiritual cultivation, and merits are thus all lost.”
TZU CHI 35
39
d harma
The sources of all illusions
The Buddha was born in his world to teach us how to safeguard our sensory organs
against illusions. In the above story, he said that we should not cling to the Six External
Objects. Because our sensory organs are attached to these outer objects, our minds are
influenced. Our spiritual cultivation trains us to guard over our sensory organs, so that
our minds will not be swayed by the outside world.
The visual faculty - the eye - interacts with visible form. What colour is more
attractive? Which environment is more beautiful? Either colour or environment is an
example of “form”.
Some people love music, so they spend the whole day listening to music, allowing
their auditory organ - the ear - to cling to the external object - sound. Some love to
drink alcohol and often get tipsy. They let their gustatory faculty - the tongue - cling to
the taste of alcohol. Some seek ease and comfort and avoid hard work for the sake of
their tactile organ - the body. In general, external objects are like dust that clouds our
true nature and distractions that draw our minds to illusion.
The donkey of ignorance
In the above story, the donkey symbolizes the ignorant mind, restless and unsettled. A
donkey can bear a heavy load of either treasures or garbage on its back, and so can our
bodies. For those whose minds are headed in the right direction, their bodies become
tools for carrying out good and righteous deeds. On the other hand, for those whose
minds are lost in confusion, their bodies are the means for carrying out wicked deeds
and are thus a source of bad karma. So, we must diligently safeguard our minds.
There are two types of love: the attached, passionate love of ordinary people and
the pure undefiled love of the Bodhisattvas. The love of ordinary people binds them in
a reciprocal one-to-one relationship, like a rope that ties up both sides. The love of the
Bodhisattvas and the Buddhas is detached and universal. Hence, the Buddha teaches
us to be aware of this rope of love and not to ignorantly fasten it to the sensory organs,
or else we will be like that watchman in the story, losing the real treasure in the house
while clinging to the rope and the donkey. (to be continue in next issue)
* This article is extracted from the book “The Thirty-Seven Principles of Enlightenment”.
40
2013 • 01
Question
&
Answer
Reflection in
Serenity
By Dharma Master Cheng Yen
Translated by K. K. Wong
Q: How do we overcome the fear of death?
A: You must know how to confront death and understand the true purpose
in life. In this way, you will not fear death because death comes silently
but surely and it is like going to bed which is nothing unusual. What we
need to emphasize is to treasure every moment while we are alive, to do
useful things, to take good care of our body, mind, and characters and help
others; so that when we breathe our last, we are able to face death naturally
and without fear.
Q: How do married couples get along well with each other?
What are the effective ways to educate our children?
A: The manner a husband and his wife behave in their daily lives plays an
important exemplary role in educating their children. A true Buddhist
family stresses on the importance of ethics and mannerism, because they
are the truest form of beauty in humans. We should all learn to give-andtake and be modest at all times. A true Buddhist cultivator should eliminate
egoism, self-dignity and be broad-minded. Love is not conditional and we
must be willing to give unconditionally so that every issue can be reached
amicably.
TZU CHI 35
41
M aster Cheng Yen Tells Stories
Master Kuya
I
n Japan, there once lived a Buddhist Monk named Kuya, who loved to travel
and chant the name of Amitabha Buddha to teach people about Buddhism.
He also paved roads, built bridges, and restored and constructed temples, and so
he was highly respected.
One time, a plague spread through Japan. Those who contracted the disease
developed a high fever and died. Many who had not contracted the disease also
died because they believed that they had been infected. People were scared and
confused.
Kuya was aware of the widespread panic. So every day he loaded a barrel
of sour plum juice and went along the streets calling, “Sour plum juice, sour
plum juice! It can cure your sickness and prevent you from getting sick!” Since
everyone respected and trusted him, they came out to get some plum juice.
Kuya personally brought the drink to those who believed they were sick,
and said to them, “You’ll feel better after you drink it.” And after they drank it,
Kuya would tell them, “You are cured.” These people then got out of bed and
walked around, saying confidently, “I am cured and will not be infected!”
To those who really contracted the plague, Kuya would say, “Just relax and
have faith, and you will recover.” He chanted the name of Amitabha Buddha for
them and told them to chant it themselves. Some drank the plum juice for four
or five days and miraculously recovered.
42
2013 • 01
If you can remain single-mindedness, your sincerity grows. If
you are sincere, your wish will be granted. Single-mindedness
is powerful enough to overcome anything.
Kuya’s sour plum juice cured many people and contributed greatly to
ending the epidemic. Everyone thought it was truly incredible. People would
ask Kuya, “Why was your plum juice so effective in treating the plague? Can
plum juice really cure diseases?”
Kuya would smile and say, “It is the panacea for psychological sickness.”
People did not understand what he meant and asked him again, “Is it really
so wonderful?”
“The drink had no real medical effect. The real remedy was each
individual’s concentration and faith.”
Kuya treated everyone kindly and sincerely, and they reciprocated with trust
and respect. He thus established an unshakable image in people’s minds. People
believed in his words and were induced to have sincere faith.
People who believed they were sick regained confidence and health after
drinking the sour plum juice. On the other hand, those who really contracted
the disease were boosted to fight the fever by drinking the plum juice, which
also contained elements that were helpful to the body. These patients were also
told to have firm faith, so they were able to recover quickly. This testifies to the
saying: “If you can remain single-mindedness, your sincerity grows. If you are
sincere, your wish will be granted.”
* This article is extracted from the book “The Master Tells Stories, Volume 2”.
TZU CHI 35
43
World of
DaAi TV
Rain
&
Dew
~ Real Life series about
the Tzu Chi Community
By Tan Chee Wei, Lim Li Tian & Lim Hui Jia
Compiled & Translated by K. K. Wong
Source: Da Ai TV & Tzu Chi Website
~~~ RAIN & DEW ~~~
Disembarking at our oldest port city,
Malacca
Late in the Nineteen Eighties
Was an enterprising couple
From Taiwan
Through thick and thin, they excel
Standing tall, amid their peers
In the Garment Sector
Nonetheless, descending suddenly
From an esteemed height
To stoop low
With right-angled Signature Bows
Was just something Incredible
However, the Seeds of Great Love
Was the Transforming Factor
For A Long, Neglected Cause
K.K.
44
2013 • 01
R
ain & Dew can be regarded as the most
known singer Ah Niu, veteran actor Jordan
Ai TV has ever filmed. The production process
Joelin Wong and Tzu Chi Volunteer Yeow Bing
challenging Taiwanese drama which Da
involved filming in 5 countries, including
Malaysia, Taiwan, Singapore, Sri Lanka and the
Voon, Charlene Meng, the late Brenda Chiah,
Wan, and many others.
“Malaysians speak a variety of slangs
United States and up to four years of preparation
and local accents, so it is impossible for us
in year 2011 and a total of 24 actors from Taiwan
roles of the local people here effectively.” That
in its making. The official filming was launched
participated in this TV series. Part of the shooting
of Rain & Dew took three and a half months,
stretching from Singapore to Melaka, Kuala
Lumpur and Klang in Peninsula Malaysia, and
Kuching and Kota Kinabalu in East Malaysia.
Rain & Dew comprised of 40 episodes
and the filming in Malaysia itself took up 30
episodes. As such, a large part of the episodes
were played by local TV cameo roles like local
(Taiwanese actors and actresses) to play the
was the very remark of known Taiwanese
Producer of Rain & Dew, Ann Chen which
sparked the random search for local talents to
fill in the filming slots. Seasoned Producer Ann
Chen had won Golden Bell Awards for many Da
Ai TV series in her career. However, those who
came for the TV extras interview were mostly
familiar Tzu Chi Volunteers who brought along
their families and relatives and finally caused
TZU CHI 35
45
World of
DaAi TV
a long terrific queue outside the Bukit Bintang
habits. In order to make these Da Ai friends
As far as the shooting of Rain & Dew was
volunteers were willing to wake up at four in the
Jing-Si Books & Café.
concerned, the most taxing moment was during
the shooting of Sekolah Kebangsaan Lampada
(Lampada National Primary School) in hilly
Kota Marudu, Sabah which was 130 kilometres
from Kota Kinabalu. No matter how hard the
Tzu Chi Volunteers tried to convince Producer
from the Tzu Chi family feel at home, local
morning to prepare breakfast for these filming
crews from Taiwan. Although deprived of sleep,
the volunteers were not complaining as they
knew very well that this Da Ai filming project
was a tough job.
Malaysian Assistant Director, Sam Ooi was
Ann Chen to look for an alternative location, she
apparently moved by the Tzu Chi volunteers’
persons travelling in 2 vans, 6 four-wheel-drive
Ai filming team as guests-of-honour. “The
would not change her mind. So, a convoy of 40
jeeps, 2 trucks and 10 cars were mobilized for
this adventure.
In the following 3½ month’s shooting
career in Malaysia, the Taiwanese Da Ai
Shooting Team was obviously striving as best as
they could to adapt themselves to the Malaysian
climate, style of living and the local eating
46
2013 • 01
dedication and selflessness in serving the Da
volunteers’ selfless contributions (such as taking
time to prepare and serve herbal tea, fruits
and placing welcome cards in guest rooms)
served far beyond the intended needs and had
even transcended to a much higher level, to be
honoured as Great Love!”
Rain & Dew is a real life TV series which
focused on an enterprising couple, David Liu
(Rain) and Echo Chien (Dew) who came to
Malaysia in the late Nineteen Eighties to explore
business potentials, particularly in the garment
trade.
David Liu and Echo Chien.
In 1992, Echo got to know Tzu Chi
After the lifting of Martial Laws in Taiwan
while on a trip back to Taiwan. This charitable
wages of the local workers and costs of raw
decided to join Tzu Chi for a noble cause.
way back in year 1988, the average rate of
materials were escalating with an alarming
rate. Thus, many Taiwanese entrepreneurs were
seeking cheaper labour across South-east Asian
countries to solve this manpower crisis. At
that time, the adventurous David Liu who was
approaching the age of 40 arrived at Melaka
organization influenced her greatly and she
Following this, she instantly translated inspired
emotions into action by leading her factory
workers to pay visits to the needy and impoverish
families in Melaka and also as far as in Kuala
Lumpur and Selangor.
By this time, their garment manufacturing
with his wife to tap for local human resources.
business was thriving and David was enjoying
hardship, the persistent Taiwanese couple
playing golf or belting out in karaoke lounges.
Riding through tides of adversities and
succeeded in establishing their garment trade in
Malacca and set up a manufacturing plant there.
Apart from work, family affairs also
posed a great challenge to Echo. Being very
stern with her eldest daughter who attended an
international school in Kuala Lumpur, she used
to be at constant loggerheads with her so much
so that the mother-daughter relationship was
badly strained.
life and used to while away his leisure hours by
So, Echo had to make use of every opportunity
to convince David into joining Tzu Chi. By and
by, David was eventually inspired to commit
himself into carrying out charitable missions.
The icing on the cake finally came when their
eldest daughter was inadvertently influenced by
their exemplary commitments that she began
to bury the hatchet and renewed close relations
with mother Echo.
TZU CHI 35
47
World of
this
DaAi TV
In the next two decades that followed,
entrepreneurs-turned-volunteers
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
couple
exercised great influence over the Tzu Chi
community, not only in Melaka and Kuala
Lumpur, but also in Kuching and Kota Kina-
balu, contributing selflessly for the benefit of
the local society. As disciples of Dharma Master
Cheng Yen, David was given the Dharma name
of “Ji Yu” (Relief Rain) while Echo was given
the Dharma name of “Ci Lu” (Compassionate
Dew).
In year 2001, the enterprising couple
terminated
their
garments
manufacturing
business at the prime of their career and decided
once and for all to be fully involved in Tzu
Chi charitable missions. So they donated their
factory to Tzu Chi and converted the 3.8 acres
of landed property into the present Melaka JingSi Hall.
Later, David was appointed the CEO of
Tzu Chi Singapore; while Echo became the
CEO of Tzu Chi KL & Selangor. So, goes
the story of this compassionate couple who
continue to sow the Seeds of Great Love across
Malaysia, Singapore and other parts of Southeast Asia……
Apart from that, Rain & Dew can also be
classified as a film which enhanced the “Tzu
Chi Affinity” in Malaysia, because the life
stories of many Tzu Chi care recipients are
living testimonies of genuine cases in Melaka,
Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Kota Kinabalu and
Kuching.
48
2013 • 01
1). Sean Su as David Liu
2). Lin as Echo Chien
3). Shu Wei, Chang as young David Liu
4). Yun as young Echo Chien.
5). Local veteran artist Jordan Voon
6). Local artist Alice Yeah
7). The late Brenda Chiah
8). Local known singer Ah Niu
i
nspiration
By Michele Ng
Labour of Love
A
lady walked into the Cempaka Recycling Centre and I caught a glimpse of her
colourful bag. Like a magician, she swiftly pulled open her bag. Out came a
handful of white paper and mindfully she placed it into the allocated bin, followed
by plastic containers, bottles and coloured paper. It took me a while to figure out
that it was not her handbag but a bag to carry her recyclables.
I approached and struck a conversation with her. “Hi, that’s a beautiful bag, did you
make it? Madam Lee Kuei Ying smiled as she and another volunteer pulled open both ends of
the bag. The bag now looked elongated and unfolded multiple compartments in it. She had
used recycled cloth material with different print and colour. At each compartment, she neatly
sewed on a double-sided tape, labeled (at home) to denote the different category of the recycled
items, so that her family members can put in the right items in the right compartments. On each
handle of the compartment, she secured it further with a piece of cloth from a used mattress.
Wow, bringing recyclables to the recycling centre in plastic bags, boxes, trays and basket
is nothing uncommon. But, to carry recyclables with one made of cloth material designed with
multiple compartments is truly amazing.
TZU CHI 35
49
50
2013 • 01
Ingredients (A)
Cake flour (low-gluten flour)
110 g
Baking soda
1/4 t
Ingredients (A)
Unsalted butter*
75 g
Castor sugar
35 g
1g
Salt
Fresh cream
30 g
Chocolate chips
30 g
1t
Rose petal powder
purple Rose Cookies
* For a sweeter taste, replace butter
with margarine and fresh cream.
Method
1. Heat up oven till 160°C.
2. Sieve ingredients A together.
3. Beat ingredients B until light and fluffy. Add in fresh cream slowly
and mix well.
4. Slowly add in (A), rose petal powder and chocolate chips, and mix
well.
5. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto baking tray. Press dough lightly
with tablespoon (dip in water first), and then sprinkle a little rose
petal powder on top.
6. Bake at 160°C for 15-20 minutes until pale golden in colour.
People who are preoccupied with past achievements cannot humble themselves.
~ Jing-Si Aphorism by Dharma Master Cheng Yen
TZU CHI 35
51
R ecipe
Chief Cook: Melinda Soo
Photograph by Melinda Soo
Translated by Hew Kwee Heong
52
2013 • 01
Joint Effort towards
K.L JING-SI HALL BUILDING FUND
Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur & Selangor is building a 4-storey Jing-Si Hall on a 5-acre land in
Kepong. Due for completion in 2013, this Hall will have a built-up area of 442,000 sq. ft. to
accommodate a Dharma Teaching Hall, International Conference Hall, Tzu Chi Cultural
Display Hall, Administration Office, Jing-Si Books & Cafe, Continuing Education Centre,
Kindergarten, Dormitory and other facilities.
We are appealing for your generous donation towards the Building Fund. All contributions
should be made in favour of Taiwan Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Malaysia, HSBC
Account No. 316029115101. For the issuance of official receipt(s), kindly forward the
bank-in-slip(s) with details of full name, contact number and address, to:
Taiwan Buddhist Tzu-Chi Foundation Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur & Selangor Branch)
55-57A (1st Floor), Jalan SS 25/2, Taman Bukit Emas, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Tel: 03-7880 9048
Fax: 03-7880 8158
Tzu Chi Community Centres in Central & Southern Peninsula Malaysia & East Malaysia
Bintulu
1st Flr, Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Park City Commercial
Square Ph3, 97000 Bintulu, Sarawak.
Tel: 086-333 089
Seri Damansara
No1, Grd & 1st Flr, Jln Ara SD 7/3B,
Bdr Sri Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur.
Seri Petaling
No. 17-2, Jln Radin Bagus, Bdr Sri Petaling,
57000 Kuala Lumpur.
Kuchai Lama
2-5, Jln Kuchai Maju Satu, Off Jln Kuchai Lama,
58200 Kuala Lumpur.
Bukit Bintang
5-02, 5th Flr, Wisma Bkt Bintang,
28, Jln Bkt Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.
Setapak
No 17-6-1, Jln 2/50, Diamond Square,
Off Jln Gombak, 53000 Kuala Lumpur.
USJ
Roof Top, 55 & 56, Jln USJ 10/1F,
47610 UEP Subang Jaya, Selangor.
Kajang
No 21-A, Jln Majlis Jaya 1, Tmn Majlis Jaya,
Sg Chua, 43000 Kajang, Selangor.
Sg Long
69-2, Jln SL 1/4, Bandar Sg Long, 43000 Kajang,
Selangor.
Puchong
No 24-2 & 24-3, Jln Bdr 3, Pusat Bdr Puchong,
47100 Puchong, Selangor.
Batu Cave
No 6-2, Jln Dataran Selayang 1,
Dataran Selayang, 68100 Batu Cave, Selangor.
Serdang
No. 9-2 & 11-2, Jln BS5/26B, Tmn Bkt Serdang,
43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor.
Taman Gembira
No 2548B, 2550B (½ unit) & 2552B, Persiaran Raja
Muda Musa, 41200 Klang, Selangor.
Taman Eng Ann
No 22, Galeri Empire, Jln Empayar, Off Persiaran
Sultan Ibrahim / KU 1, 41150 Klang, Selangor.
Banting
No 64A & 64B, Jln Emas 8, Bdr Sungai Emas,
42700 Banting, Selangor.
Bandar Botanic
6-1 & 6-2, Jln Jasmin 1/KS6, Bandar Botanic,
41200 Klang, Selangor.
Bacang
17-3, 3rd Flr, Jln Kesidang 3/11,
Melaka Mall, Off Jln Tun Perak, 75300 Melaka.
Bandar Melaka
No 394A (Lot 962), Tmn Sinn, Semabok,
75050 Melaka.
Cheng
23-1, Jln Seri 5, Tmn Cheng Baru, 76250 Cheng,
Melaka.
Durian Tunggal
DT 4287, Jln Murai 3, Tmn Murai Jaya,
Durian Tunggal, 76100 Melaka.
Jasin
JB 2333 (1st Flr), Bdr Baru Jasin III, 77000 Jasin,
Melaka.
Malim
No 3, 2nd Flr, Jln MP16, Tmn Merdeka Permai,
Bt Berendam, 75350 Melaka.
Segamat
No 29, Tkt Atas, Jln Putra 1/3, Bdr Putra Segamat,
85020 Segamat, Johor.
Ulu Tiram
No 17, Jln Beladau 5, Tmn Puteri Wangsa,
81800 Ulu Tiram, Johor.
By Kelvin Ting Kie Mei
Photograph by Ang Cheng Peng
Translated by K. K. Wong
“Please help the victims! Any amount will do.”It was a wonderful sight to see this kind little
kid appealing for public donations to help the U.S. Hurricane victims.
His father showing an exemplary role led this caring child into the streets to understand
what human suffering is all about and to shower loving-kindness to the needy.
Understanding Sufferings in this Human World