The World Of Tzu Chi(Vol.112)

TZU CHI 112 29 Chi. The stall owners, Lee Chin Cheng and his wife, introduced Kan Len to Tzu Chi’s missions and invited her to participate in recycling work on Recycling Days, which fall on the third Sunday of every month. This serendipitous encounter granted Kan Len her wish of volunteering in recycling work. Her dedication to environmental conservation efforts has extended beyond her monthly recycling duties to become an integral part of her daily life. Wherever she goes, she would never hesitate to pick up any recyclables littered along her path and add them to her collection at home to be sorted. Bonding over recycling After relocating to her current residence in PPR Raya Permai Sungai Besi in 2009, Kan Len had contemplated giving up on her recycling activities due to the lack of space. However, Chin Cheng encouraged her to persist in her efforts by collecting recyclables in and around the block. Volunteers would assist to transport the recyclables away at regular intervals, he added. It was not until much later that Kan Len stumbled upon the Tzu Chi Taman Castlefield Recycling Point in her neighbourhood through Choy Len, whom she first encountered on one of her collection rounds. This discovery has allowed Kan Len easier access to a recycling venue. Kan Len, Choy Len and Grandma Say gradually bonded over monthly sessions at the recycling point and frequent trips around the neighbourhood to collect recyclables. Kan Len would reminisce on fond memories of the times the trio spent together: it was the norm for them to return from their collection rounds saddled with large bags filled to the brim with recyclables. They would carry several large bags over their shoulders, while lugging multiple bags in each hand. Persevering through aches and pains Kan Len used to sew for a living, but had Yong Kan Len (seated, in grey) spends most of her waking hours sorting recyclables sent in by her neighbours, yet she takes it all in her stride.