The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.108)

2019 • 03 38 Indonesian-born Chinese, Maria Moris Kwan and her family fled to Tawau, Sabah, when the anti-Chinese riots broke out in Indonesia. Putting aside her resentment, she has been dedicating herself to humanitarianrelief for thestateless people and illegal residents living in Kampung Titingan. Being Master Cheng Yen’s disciple, she is determined to be the Master’s “hands and legs”, to go to places where others would avoid and reach out to those in dire need. By Lim Li Tian Translated by Chew Chiau Ping Photograph by Leong Chin Wah Great Love Prevails in Darkness L ike most other days, it was a warm day in Tawau, as Maria Moris Kwan and three other Tzu Chi volunteers arrived at an illegal settlement by the coast. Under the blazing sun, they went from door to door to introduce Tzu Chi to the villagers, hoping that they would give their kindness by donating within their own means despite living in poverty. Countless squatter lots connected by narrow walkways built using low-quality planks, line up along the coast and extend towards the sea. One risks falling while walking on such a wobbly walkway. Villagers go about their daily activities surrounded by rubbish, a result of conducting their activities, from eating to relieving themselves, all on the sea. By now, Maria had separated from fellow volunteers and reached the farthest end of the village. She sat in front of a house organizing her notes. eople