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

2023 • 06 22 uardian of the Earth By Low Siew Lian Translated by Stephanie Chan Photo by Hong Geok Hui Even though the walk is slow, the two silver-haired volunteers carry on without a hint of hesitation. “This is a great way to stay active, exercising with lots of fun, why not!” Relentless Zeal in Pursuit of Environmental Conservation Despite of Age G randpa Amin, aged 87, is a devout Muslim. During his career, he worked as a teacher in a religious school as well as a military head chef. After his retirement, he was often invited to cook at friends’ wedding celebrations. Now, even though his physical strength is unlike before, he accompanies his wife Maimun, to work in their garden during the day, or go for a walk-about around the neighbourhood, chit-chatting with neighbours. During the evenings, he teaches the Quran. One of his oldest students Ahmad Zaki bin Loyot, aged 61, is a trishaw driver by trade. Linking of the little blue flower One day, Grandma Maimun discovered recycling through a TV programme which featured a Malay father and son team who collected abandoned items to resell. With the income, the father-son team bought food for themselves and also often helped out people in