The world of Tzu Chi December 2023 (Vol.148)

2023 • 12 20 By Tan Kim Hion & Sia Ah Tong Compiled by Yi-Qin Translated by Goh Hwe Yong Photo by Lim Char Boo pecial Feature A lighted lamp symbolises a spiritual light that illuminates the mind and uplifts the heart. As Karrnanithi a/l Annamalai clasped his palms together in prayer, his thoughts expanded beyond himself and his family, offering sincere wishes for the safety and well-being of everyone present and all beings around the world. On October 22, 2023, Tzu Chi KL & Selangor held a Deepavali distribution event for its Indian care recipients at the KL Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall. A total of 669 individuals from 203 households participated in the event. In addition to the distribution of festive gift packs, the event featured three care recipients sharing their life stories, with the hope of inspiring the audience to approach life’s challenges with a positive outlook and to extend their love to others. Recognising that many care recipients are caught in the cycle of illness and poverty, Dr. Wong TeckWee from the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) was also invited to share insights on the benefits of plant-based diets in preventing chronic diseases. Coinciding with the Midori Market, a pop-up market on the Jing Si Hall premises that offered a range of plant-based food and eco-friendly products, each attendee received a RM30 voucher for use at the market. “In the past when I worshipped, I used to pray for only myself and my family, but today feels like a grand praying session as everyone prays for everybody in the world.” – Tzu Chi care recipient, Karrnanithi a/l Annamalai Lighting the Lamp of the Heart