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

2025 • 03 24 ouching Life Story Hundreds of Hands, One Mission By Tan Ewe Ming, Lai Sou Chang & Tan Siew Chern Translated by Echo Photos by Lim Chin Shein In an old terrace house in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, three elderly residents lived amidst overwhelming clutter, unable to clean due to their age and frailty. In response, Tzu Chi volunteers mobilised a team of over 100 people to restore their living space, bringing tangible change and renewed hope. F or 80-year-old Lee Seng Keong, mobility issues had confined him to a small space cluttered with cardboard boxes, old newspapers, and clothes. His wife, 77-year- old Ng Yok Lin, had no choice but to retreat upstairs, where three bedrooms were similarly packed with belongings, leaving barely any room to lie down. The only clear area was reserved for her younger brother, 68-year- old Ng Boon Leong, who has an intellectual disability. Overwhelmed by the sheer volume of clutter, the family had long since given up hope of reclaiming their home. In October 2024, Tzu Chi volunteer Heng Wa Seng was entrusted with assisting the family. During the first visit with fellow volunteers, Wa Seng found that Grandma Ng was reluctant to let strangers into her home, agreeing only to speak with them outside. Recognising the need for patience, the Through multiple visits and heartfelt conversations, volunteer Heng Wa Seng (right) and his team gradually earned Grandma Ng’s trust, allowing them to offer assistance and care.