The world of Tzu Chi Apr-Jun 2023 (Vol.146)

11 TZU CHI 146 I n addition to activities to show gratitude to parents, Tzu Chi KL & Selangor collaborated with Veg-Hub, an advocate of vegetarianism, to organise the Green Carnival, introducing and promoting plant-based food to the public. Gulshan Kaur Rai, the founder of Veg-Hub, expanded their online plant- based food delivery platform to also organise plant-based markets at places like shopping malls since last year. She expressed her joy in collaborating with Tzu Chi to organise such a carnival for the first time. She found the Jing Si Hall a comfortable and calming place that brought tranquillity to her heart. The success of the Green Carnival was inspiring and exceeded her expectations. The Green Carnival featured over 40 stalls showcasing a diverse array of plant- based food and products. Among the visitors exploring the stalls was Chong Min Lee, who has enrolled in a yoga class offered by the Tzu Chi Continuing Education Centre. She was pleasantly surprised to discover some vegan baked goods, including cakes with labels indicating low sugar and gluten free options. Without hesitation, she made a purchase and remarked, “This kind of food is very healthy and suitable for me.” Min Lee has been following a vegan diet for 13 years, after her friend suggested it due to her frequent illnesses in the past. She shared, “After adopting a vegan diet, I have gradually regained my health, and I rarely fall sick now.” She observed that it is now easier to find restaurants offering vegan food compared to earlier times. She highlighted the “Healthier Me 21-day Challenge” launched by Tzu Chi, which provides whole-food plant-based meals, as an excellent example. She introduced this programme to her friends, and they also experienced improved health. She commended Tzu Chi for its efforts in promoting a whole- food plant-based diet, and expressed hope for the continuation of such endeavours. Green Carnival rally popular support By Chan Shih Yih Translated by Lee You Zhuan Photo by Ang Siok Hui