The world of Tzu Chi January 2021 (Vol.130)

2021 • 01 40 free clinics or at relief distributions. The volunteers were pleased withAbdul’s growth and transformation. Volunteer Tan Boon Tiong said, “Abdul himself comes from a poor family and shoulders the responsibility of caring for his grandmother and younger siblings. However, this has not stopped him from demonstrating acts of kindness. Under the influence of Tzu Chi’s education, he began helping those around him. He would also volunteer to contribute at Tzu Chi’s activities. It’s really touching to have witnessed his growth.” Three doctors from Tzu Chi International MedicalAssociation (TIMA), who participated in the distribution, were aware of Dadak’s condition. On the distribution day, Abdul and volunteers led Dr. Ong Tien Siang and Dr. Eng Xin Yie into the village to treat Dadak. The two doctors had participated in the past annual free clinics held for the villagers of Kampung Titingan and were, therefore, quite familiar with the situation of the village. Dr. Ong shared, “I have done home visits several times but this is the toughest and darkest place I have ever seen. The suffering of Kampung Titingan villagers has taught me the meaning of ‘seeing sufferings, one recognizes one’s blessings’, and now I cherish my blessings more.” Dr. Ong diagnosed that Dadak was suffering from gastroenteritis (stomach flu). He prescribed medicine for her and urged her to take it; and he also taught her neighbours to help her take the medicine in future. Volunteers followed up and shared that Dadak’s conditions had improved. Other social groups had also provided other material aid for her and her children. Sowing seeds of kindness Echo Chien, CEO of Tzu Chi KL & Selangor, has always paid close attention to the volunteers’ work in helping the poor in Tawau. Upon listening to the report of the event, she was deeply moved. She remarked, “Heroes emerge in troubled times. Where there is suffering, there is Bodhisattva. There are many people living in great difficulties in Tawau, but fortunately they have kind- hearted Tzu Chi people to help them.” Echo added, “The truth is that many people have a compassionate heart. It is only because they have not seen true sufferings that they have not had the chance to be inspired. Tawau is always short-handed but this event attracted young people to come forward and contribute. I believe they were moved and inspired.” The seeds of love that Tzu Chi volunteers have planted in Kampung Titingan would one day, sprout; the compassion young Abdul showed was evident of the cycle of goodness. Echo hoped that more people could join hands with Tzu Chi to create a peaceful society free from sufferings. Dadak’s living space was messy, shabby and narrow. It was heartbreaking to see. [Photograph by Tan Boon Tiong] Over 34 Tonnes of Supplies for the Stateless Residents