The World Of Tzu Chi(Vol.116)

TZU CHI 116 33 management and humanitarian relief through informative posters and displays. On the other hand, the talks offered comprehensive insights into various relevant topics. Zaidi Zainal Abidin, a representative from the Malaysian Meteorological Department, delivered a primer on natural and man-made disasters in Malaysia and their impact, besides highlighting efforts by the Department in providing timely weather updates and disaster alert notifications. Sapian bin Mamat, the associate director of NADMA, introduced the attendees to the history and role of NADMA, the standard operating procedures adopted by NADMA in times of disasters, as well as the difference between the organization and its counterpart, SMART. He also elaborated on the concepts of disasters and disaster management. In another session, Azura Ibrahim, National Consultant of UNHRD, briefed attendees on the organization’s role in disaster relief. Representatives from MyCARE and UNHCR enlightened the attendees on the plight of refugees and the humanitarian relief measures in place to protect the welfare of refugees. Tzu Chi volunteer Tan Soon Hock shared his observations of the tireless efforts of local Tzu Chi volunteers in providing relief during disasters, such as the 2014 East Coast floods and a severe flood that hit Penang in 2015. The volunteers, guided by the virtues of gratitude, respect and love, went to great lengths to raise funds for and extend emotional support to the disaster victims. A panel discussion between representatives from NADMA, MyCARE and Tzu Chi sparked a lively exchange of opinions on various aspects of disaster management, as the panellists expressed their views on disaster management awareness, the role of NGOs in disaster management and the challenges faced in managing disasters. In addition, several peripheral events were included to engage the attendees and enhance the HOPE experience. The Fire and Rescue Department conducted an outdoor demonstration on the proper use of the fire extinguisher, which attracted a considerable crowd. Following the demonstration, a handful of spectators were granted the opportunity to attempt the exercise for themselves. Meanwhile, SMART staged a simulation of a rescue operation that involved “rescuing” a disaster victim from a “valley”. A SMART member and a stretcher were suspended from a highline and lowered onto the ground, before transferring the “victim” onto the stretcher. The “victim”was then securely strapped to the stretcher and hoisted off the ground to safety. Despite the slight drizzle, the crowd gathered at the “rescue site” cheered the rescue team on. Since its inception in 1995, SMART has been involved in ten international rescue operations. The team draws its strength from rescue personnel of professional calibre, including firefighters, members of the police force and the military. On the final day, SMART wrapped up the event with an awe-inducing flying fox demonstration at the open space in front of the Jing Si Hall. HOPE 2019 offered an eye- opening glimpse into the established disaster management and humanitarian relief landscape in Malaysia, often taken for granted considering our reputation as a country that is relatively less vulnerable to natural disasters, situated a safe distance away from the Pacific Ring of Fire. Yet, the prevalence of natural and man-made disasters worldwide, as well as the pressing nature of the global refugee crisis, renders the issues raised in HOPE 2019 all the more relevant.