The World Of Tzu Chi March 2025 (Vol.153)

2025 • 03 14 T he KL Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall was festooned with dazzling lights and vibrant decorations in celebration of the Lunar New Year. Attendees rang bells, sounded drums, and lit lamps in prayer for a safe and peaceful year. Many long-time Tzu Chi supporters arrived with their bamboo banks filled with a year’s worth of savings, turning their accumulated donations into the power to help those in need. The Year-End Blessing Ceremony opened with the sacred hymn “Celestial Garments, Scattering Flowers”, followed by a video footage “Tzu Chi 2024 Year in Review” and a moving performance of “The Flood” sutra adaptation by a hundred performers, seamlessly interwoven with a documentary film. The performance brought to life the tireless efforts of Tzu Chi volunteers who rushed to help those affected by the devastating 2021 Klang Valley floods – an embodiment of unwavering love and compassion in the face of disaster. Now in its 59th year, Tzu Chi’s humanitarian efforts have reached 136 countries and regions worldwide. Footage on the big screens highlighted volunteers around the globe delivering aid wherever suffering exists, from New Year’s Day 2024 when a powerful earthquake struck Japan’s Noto Peninsula, and throughout the year. Happiness shines with renewed faith Among the many heartwarming moments at the ceremony was the story of Yaganes and his mother, Kokilawani, who stood on the stage with eyes filled with gratitude as they shared their family’s journey of resilience and recovery – made possible through Tzu Chi’s support. Kokilawani’s husband suffered from a heart condition, leaving the family burdened with overwhelming medical expenses. Combined with the cost of their children’s education, they struggled to make ends meet. “During our most difficult times, when Volunteers presented red envelopes from Master Cheng Yen to each attendee, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their support of Tzu Chi’s charitable missions. [Photo by Teng Pick Cheang]