The World Of Tzu Chi March 2024 (Vol.149)

2024 • 03 32 A tragic fire on the second day of the Lunar New Year devastated five units on the 17th floor of Block 70 at the Sri Sabah flats in Cheras, rendering 16 residents homeless. Despite facing manpower challenges as many volunteers in the charity team were out of town due to the Lunar New Year celebrations, a dedicated relief team was promptly organised. The volunteers visited the fire site for three consecutive days, offering both emotional solace, emergency relief cash and other forms of assistance to those affected, with the hope of expediting their recovery. A fire victim, Joe Boye, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the kind gestures and support received, saying, “Regardless of the amount, I feel everyone’s goodwill.” On the third day of the Lunar New Year, Tzu Chi Kluang volunteers extended their warmth and care to the local government hospital. Bearing gifts of mandarin oranges and heartfelt blessings, they visited 184 patients across seven wards, accompanied by the hospital staff. This visit is part of a broader tradition of celebrating various festivities, including Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Deepavali, and Wesak Day, with the patients and staff. The volunteer service, ongoing for two decades, was momentarily halted due to the pandemic. However, starting March, the volunteers are set to resume their regular visits, continuing their mission of providing companionship and support to patients and their families. Kluang I 12.02.2024 KL & Selangor I 11–14.02.2024 Bringing Festive Joy to Hospital Wards Delivering Love and Hope to Fire Victims Report and photo by Ong Seng Yeow Translated by Lee You Zhuan By Tan Kim Hion Photo by Ho Wing Hong ocal News