The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.111)

2019 • 06 24 pecial Feature imperativeness of a paradigm shift in our consumption habits. Venerable Ming Ji, Chairman of the Malaysian Buddhist Association (Kuala Lumpur/ Selangor Branch) and Superintendent of Kwan Inn Teng Temple in Petaling Jaya, has been attending this event for many years. He was particularly appreciative of Tzu Chi’s advocacy of vegetarianism as the focus of this year’s event, which resonated with the Kwan Inn Teng Temple’s move to promote vegetarianism. Venerable Ming Ji added, “We should emulate the Buddha’s compassion and abstain from meat consumption. Committing to vegetarianism and refraining from any involvement in acts of slaughter is a meaningful way to commemorate the Buddha’s birth.” In the wake of global warming, climate change and the prevalence of natural disasters, Venerable Ming Ji expressed his hope for more to heed the call to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle for the benefit of all beings. A sincere pledge Lee Sew Foo, 54, first joined Tzu Chi as a volunteer three years ago after being introduced to the organization by her older sister, Lee Ah Poh. She has been attending volunteer training sessions but is hesitant when it comes to being certified as a Tzu Chi Commissioner as she had reservations towards committing to vegetarianism. “I’m a meat lover. My sister was very persistent in encouraging me to commit to vegetarianism, but I was reluctant,” said Sew Foo, admitting that it was a challenge to resist the temptation of meat-based dishes served during family meals. Eventually, she hesitantly agreed to commit to vegetarian meals on the 1st and 15th days of every lunar month in observance of Tzu Chi’s endorsement of vegetarianism as a conscious effort to protect all forms of life. In early April, she suffered a sudden onset of chest pain, but further examination failed to reveal any underlying health complications. Nevertheless, Volunteers and members of the public gathered to form the words “Go Green, Go Vege” and four Chinese characters representing the core concept of “protecting lives through vegetarianism”. [Photograph by Aerial Photography Team]