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

07 into activity centres, and with each step forward—from charity, medicine, education, to environmental protection—she realised that no tasks were too daunting. The key, she believed, lay in unwavering faith and seizing every opportunity to work towards the goal while maintaining a clear sight of direction. Having weathered the challenges of the pioneering days, a formidable team of volunteers had formed by the second decade, bearing witness to the profound impact of solemn vows. “In 2007, we welcomed 700 attendees to the Buddha Bathing Ceremony. In 2008, fuelled by a bold vow, we set our sights on inviting 10,000 people to attend the ceremony…” Tzu Chi staff Tan Pei Kee and volunteers Ong Hok Ki, Ng Yooi Boon, and Eo Mooi Yan fondly reminisced about that ‘overambitious’ era, their eyes gleaming with vibrant energy. Driven by the belief that “one more helping hand is one more force of goodness in the world, and everyone has the ability to help regardless of their wealth”, volunteers dedicated themselves to recruiting more living Bodhisattvas, who extend help to others, throughout the decade. Embracing Master Cheng Yen’s blessings, they also aimed to recruit one million living Bodhisattvas, spreading love across Malaysia. Tzu Chi’s core missions flourished, and the Jing Si Books & Café, Tzu Chi Continuing Education Centres, Tzu-Chi Free Clinics, and DaAi Kindergartens were successively established. Volunteers took responsibility for their vows, ensuring the fulfilment of their mission. The completion of the Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall in Kuala Lumpur in 2014 not only marked a pivotal milestone, but also infused strength into the third decade. Sio Kee Hong, Deputy CEO of the KL& Selangor Chapter, shared that volunteers promptly stepped forward to offer aid and comfort amidst major disasters, such as the Malaysian Airlines double tragedies, East Coast floods, and the COVID-19 pandemic. During the Great Klang Valley floods in 2021, Tzu Chi even collaborated with the military to reach the worst-hit areas for relief efforts. Thirty years of steadfast endeavours, transcending religious and racial boundaries, have earned the trust and recognition of the general public and government agencies Honourable guests from Tzu Chi Taiwan Headquarters, alongside representatives of Tzu Chi Chapters and Sub-Chapters across Malaysia, graced the 30th Anniversary celebration. [Photo by Tan See Can] TZU CHI 149