The world of Tzu Chi September 2023 (Vol.147)

2023 • 09 12 By Yap Kar Leng, Dong Min & Soh Pin Tau Compiled by Gan Chian Nee Translated by Goh Hwe Yong In July 2023, Tzu Chi International School Kuala Lumpur was abuzz with activities as students and teachers from primary, secondary, and even kindergarten levels enthusiastically participated in the sports week, followed by the sports day, which took place over three consecutive Saturdays: July 15, 22, and 29. Parents of kindergarten, Grades 1 and 2 students also had the opportunity to join in on fun competitions with their children, fostering happy memories together. T hemed “We Unite through Sports”, the 2023 sports day at Tzu Chi International School Kuala Lumpur (TCISKL) brought together students and teachers from all levels. To ensure every student had the chance to participate, the teachers put in significant effort, guiding students through planning and preparation during the sports week. Divided into four sports houses—Red, Yellow, Blue, and Green—the athletes participated in practices and selection matches for various track and field events, while other students took part in station games. Some students joined marching or cheerleading squads, or the art and design team, which was responsible for designing posters, house mascots, costumes and props for the cheerleading squads, as well as decorating the house photo booths and tents. Everyone contributed to their respective sports houses’ overall scores through their participations. The heat of competition climaxed on July 15 with the first sports meet, which was for the secondary level. As daylight gradually set in, the school community gathered, eagerly awaited the opening ceremony. Scouts paraded onto the field confidently, proudly holding the national and school flags. Then, the marching troops, cheerleading squads, and athletes from the four sports houses took turns in their marches. Clad in heroic costumes, the athletes exhibited high spirits by shouting slogans in unison, dancing, and even embodying the vigour of heroic warriors. The audience responded with applause and cheers. Notably, the Green sports house’s marching troop won the first place in the march-past competition with their extraordinary African dance element. The cheerleading squads delivered fantastic showmanship with their rhythmic dance moves and challenging stunts. Among the cheerleaders, Phua Shang Zhe of the Blue sports house stood out with his lively dance steps and fluid movements. Their chosen dance routine was challenging, featuring a fast tempo that necessitated numerous practice sessions. Shang Zhe highlighted the importance of teamwork and a dedicated attitude for a successful performance. He said, “When every member practises diligently and dances in synchronisation, the team’s spirit will naturally rise.” The exceptional formation of the Blue pecial Feature TCISKL Sport Day We Unite through Sports