The world of Tzu Chi May 2021 (Vol.134)

TZU CHI 134 47 Emergency Relief for FireVictims on Pulau Gaya Tzu Chi Malacca Youth Association was officially established on March 14, 2021. The Association invites young people from different fields to explore practical solutions for environmental conservation and sustainable development. Tzu Chi Malacca staff Foo Jia Jiann, who is also a member of the Tzu-Chi UNHCR project team, had learned about the Tzu Chi International Youth Association (TIYA) through the staff-in-charge in Taiwan. He then gathered a few alumni of the Tzu Chi Teenagers’ Group and Collegiate Youth Association, to garner environmental education initiatives. They engaged youth through activities such as cleaning up the beach and mountain areas. At present, there are more than ten members working together to plan activities suited to this age group. Malacca 14.03.2021 Report by Yong Siew Lee & Cheong Jin Li Photo courtesy of Foo Jia Jiann A fire broke out in Kampung Lok Urai, Pulau Gaya, Kota Kinabalu, on March 11, 2021. More than 70 wooden stilt houses were destroyed, leaving about 300 people homeless. The following day, Tzu Chi volunteers visited the temporary shelter set up at Likas Multipurpose Hall, to express concern to the victims. They also contacted the victims based on a name list provided by the Welfare Department and requested them to bring supporting documents to a learning centre for stateless children on March 18, for compilation of the beneficiary list. On March 20, the volunteers distributed cash relief to 74 affected families outside the premises of City Hall. Beneficiary Hasmidah bte Ebnil said, “Tzu Chi’s assistance will help me get through this difficult time. Now I have money for food and daily necessities!” Kota Kinabalu 12, 18 & 20.03.2021 Report by Chong Yee Lui Photo by Tse Ning Siong Mobilize the Power of Youth for Change Local News