The world of Tzu Chi March 2020(Vol.120)

TZU CHI 120 37 Local News On February 12, 2020, a nighttime blaze engulfed three time-worn houses on Carnarvon Street. Seventy-three elderly residents of the neighbouring old folks’ home were evacuated to a nearby community centre with the help of members of the public due to concerns that the flames would spread. Upon receiving news of the fire incident, local Tzu Chi volunteers immediately travelled to the scene to extend care to the senior citizens by distributing multipurpose foldable beds and hot meals to comfort them. On the following day, the volunteers delivered piping hot bowls of congee and noodles to the seniors and fed the meals to seniors with mobility difficulties. Penang 2020.02.12 Reported by Pahng Jing Xian Photograph by Tzu Chi Documenting Team In conjunction with the “City Walk” event organized by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), Tzu Chi volunteers worked with the Council to arrange for vegetarian meals to be served at the event to encourage participants of the walk to embrace vegetarianism. The vegetarian breakfast earned the praise of officials from the Council, who were fascinated by the versatility and variety offered by a vegetarian diet. MBPP Executive Secretary Fazillah Hussain remarked, “I’m impressed by the taste of vegetarian meat. It tastes like real meat, only vegetarian,” attesting to the adaptability of vegetarian fare, which is also wholesome and environmentally-friendly. Vegetarian Breakfast to Foster Respect for Life Penang 2020.01.01 Reported by Foong Ai Lee Photograph by Gan Boon Hong Comforting Senior Citizens Endangered by Fire