The world of Tzu Chi March-April 2022 (Vol.140)

TZU CHI 140 25 received another relief aid of RM1,000 from the government. However, it was insufficient to compensate for the losses arising from the floods. Her six units of sewing machines were smeared with mud and needed to be repaired or replaced. Thankfully, an organization had given her a new, multi- function sewing machine, which allows her to sew school uniforms for her children and do some simple sewing. When the volunteers sent two used laptops to her home after the cash relief distribution ceremony, Suhaina was pleasantly surprised. “Tzu Chi has given great help to Kampung Bukit Lanchong in this flood. I really like the ceremony today, where every affected family received the relief cash. This is one of the most well-planned assistance.” Flood victim Zarina Derahman could not help tearing up as she watched the videos highlighting Tzu Chi volunteers’ humanitarian work around the world. She hopes that one day, she could also put on the uniform and volunteer her services. Zarina dropped her donation in the contribution box and brought two coin banks home to do charity. She said, “Master Cheng Yen loves us so much, so we must give back to Tzu Chi.” Facing the camera, she became emotional. “We are truly grateful to you (Master Cheng Yen). Tzu Chi has helped so many people. We are all grateful for your sincere love.” Bridging the racial divide Ninety-nine per cent of Kampung Bukit Lanchong residents are Malays. After learning that the village was flooded, Tzu Chi volunteers entered the flood-hit areas to extend care and comfort, assist in cleaning up and compile victim rosters. When they asked for the villagers’ identification cards, the latter wanted to lodge a police report as they were unfamiliar with Tzu Chi, and some were suspicious and thought that the volunteers were coming from some illegal organization. Volunteer Ma Lay Hwa said, “I can understand their concerns. After all, Tzu Chi volunteers had never entered the village before. Fortunately, the volunteers still managed to complete the compilation of beneficiary rosters successfully.” At the cash relief distribution ceremony, the villagers finally let their guard down after learning more about Tzu Chi through the footages shown, and receiving the cash card and letter from Master Cheng Yen. They could feel that Tzu Chi was really there to help them, and to many, it was an emotional moment. Lay Hwa was glad to see the villagers posting messages of heartfelt gratitude to Tzu Chi in their community Facebook group, and commending that the volunteers had done a good job. She said, “When I saw them holding the letter from Master while collecting the cash card, I felt it showed their recognition and approval towards Tzu Chi. At that moment, I felt the racial divide had become smaller than before.” Witnessing the close bonding of different races, Lay Hwa felt that the all- encompassing love for humanity can bridge all barriers. Her wish is to lead the volunteer team to serve the community well and inspire the villagers to volunteer with Tzu Chi, thereby reflecting the truth, goodness and beauty of Tzu Chi—the qualities that are at the core of the human heart. Making a Difference With Genuine Love Tzu Chi Flood Relief Action