The world of Tzu Chi December 2023 (Vol.148)

04 Report by Ho Sook Yin & Yi-Qin Translated by Lim Wen-Xin Photo by Sam Pin Fook eature 2023 • 12 Pandemic or Not, Love Remains Amidst the gradual return to the cadence of normal life post- pandemic, Great Love persists for those facing hardship… M aster Cheng Yen often says that under the sky and on this earth, we are all one big family, and everyone has the responsibility to help one another. Between April and early May 2023, Tzu Chi volunteers were present in many schools, communities, and even government health clinics in the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor regions. Among them, Liew Foong Yee, a beneficiary of Tzu Chi’s “Kita1Keluarga 2.0 (K1K2.0)” relief programme, donned the Tzu Chi volunteer uniform and joined senior volunteers to serve at two designated locations. At a service counter, Chia Kim, a fruit stall assistant, expressed chokingly, “My husband is ill, and my son’s work has also been affected by the pandemic. Our household income has decreased, yet many things have become more expensive. Life is really difficult…” After completing the assistance application process, she repeatedly conveyed her gratitude. While assisting applicants from various ethnic groups in filling out the forms, Foong Yee could feel the sincere care Tzu Chi had for those in need. She was grateful that she was now able to contribute and help others instead of being on the receiving end. She shared, “When the applicants sit in front of me, I interact with them gently, so they, too, can feel the love and warmth Tzu Chi volunteers once showered upon me.” It was the volunteers’ companionship that inspired her to help others in need sincerely with all that she had. Still there post-pandemic In the current post-pandemic era, the global economy continues to grapple with the lingering effects of COVID-19. The repercussions of the war in Ukraine and the ongoing climate crisis have further compounded these challenges, leaving many households under substantial economic strain. Continuing the K1K1.0 andK1K2.0 relief