Latest news with #TzuChi
The Star
16-05-2025
- General
- The Star
Aid for Myanmar quake victims
Kong (fourth from left) handing over a mock cheque to Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur and Selangor deputy chief executive officer Puan Sri Tong Siew Bee. Also present are NV Foundation vice-chairman Tan Kean Huat (second from left), Kong's wife Puan Sri Tan Poh Hwa (third from left) and Tzu Chi volunteers. Following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28, several companies have stepped up to provide disaster relief aid. The latest is Nirvana Asia Group, Asia's largest integrated bereavement care provider, which handed over a RM1mil donation to Tzu Chi Foundation Malaysia. Among post-disaster recovery efforts that the aid will fund are emergency medical aid, temporary shelters for displaced victims, and basic necessities such as food, clean water and clothing. The funds will also help with repairs to damaged infrastructure, and long-term community rebuilding efforts that include psychological counselling. Tzu Chi has long upheld the spirit of 'treating other's suffering as one's own.' It provides cross-border humanitarian aid regardless of nationality, race and religion. In every major disaster around the world, Tzu Chi volunteers are known for their swift response. They offer medical relief, supplies and emotional support. Since March 30, Tzu Chi teams have been on the ground in Myanmar. In partnership with the United Nations Humanitarian Response Depot (UNHRD), the Selangor and Kuala Lumpur chapters of the foundation had delivered essential items to quake survivors. These included safe drinking water, 160 emergency beds, blankets, face masks, and gloves. Additionally, Tzu Chi has implemented cash-for-work initiatives to support affected locals and monks in constructing temporary zinc-roofed shelters for those who were left homeless by the disaster. Nirvana Asia founder and executive chairman Tan Sri Kong Hon Kong expressed his confidence in Tzu Chi's well-established humanitarian relief system. The group's donation to the foundation had been forefront on Kong's mind upon his learning of the quake. 'No matter the disaster, Tzu Chi volunteers are always on the front lines. 'Regardless of challenges, even when food and shelter are lacking, we still see their dedication in bringing hope to survivors,' he said. Kong believes that Tzu Chi will ensure this donation is used effectively, delivering targeted aid and spiritual comfort to disaster victims. He expressed the group's firm belief that the funds would be maximised in both material and spiritual assistance. 'In the face of tragedy, we cannot stand idly by. 'Every disaster reminds us –compassion should transcend borders,' he added. Kong said that since Nirvana Asia's establishment 35 years ago, it has consistently extended help in times of crises. The company's efforts, he said, had included over RM10mil in aid following the 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Nepal in 2015, RM8mil worth in medical equipment and food provisions during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, and RM500,000 for flood relief efforts in Sarawak last year. 'Beyond disaster relief, Nirvana Asia has been a consistent supporter of charitable causes, educational institutions, and social welfare efforts. 'Nirvana Asia will continue to monitor global disasters, uphold humanitarian values and fulfil our corporate social responsibility of providing tangible assistance to those in need,' said Kong.
The Star
16-05-2025
- General
- The Star
Celebrating faith and mothers
Volunteers dressed in colour-coded uniforms and arranged themselves to form the Chinese character 'jue'. A GRAND celebration was held to commemorate Wesak, Mother's Day and Global Tzu Chi Day by the Taiwan Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur & Selangor). Held at Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, the event also marked the organisation's 59th anniversary. The festivities were held on May 11 and 12. Among attendees were Buddhist elders and monks, foreign diplomats, representatives from political parties and the business sector. This year's global theme for Tzu Chi was 'May we learn and attain awakening with mindfulness; May we walk on the Bodhisattva path with diligence.' The theme encouraged all to unite in doing good, cultivating wisdom and bringing peace and hope to society. Volunteers dressed in colour-coded uniforms were arranged to form the Chinese character jue, which means 'to perceive', reflecting the global theme. They also formed 'TC59' and '2025', symbolising the chapter's 59th anniversary. Tzu Chi programme coordinator Justin Ooi said that over 6,000 devotees and volunteers participated in the event. Devotees praying at Tzu Chi Jing Si Hall on Wesak Day. — Photos: ART CHEN/The Star He said participants were invited to symbolically bathe the Buddha on both days. 'We also organised filial piety activities, specially designed for children to express gratitude to their parents during this meaningful occasion which honours both Buddha and mothers,' he said. On Wesak Day, Tzu Chi chapters around the world hold ceremonies to gather collective goodwill and offer prayers for global peace. A special highlight of the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor ceremony this year was the live link with Tzu Chi headquarters in Hualien, Taiwan. This allowed participants to join parts of the Taiwanese ceremony and receive teachings from Tzu Chi founder Master Cheng Yen via real-time live stream. On the second day, families were seen taking part in filial piety-themed activities, where children were taught to value and honour their parents. In a touching gesture, they offered tea and flowers as expressions of gratitude. A variety of family-friendly activities were also held, including cake decorating, dance classes, Zentangle and Nagomi Art trial sessions and craft workshops. The ground floor of the building was transformed into a lively marketplace with food and craft stalls, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.
The Sun
12-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
Day of reflection, compassion, unity
KEPONG: Over 10,000 devotees, volunteers, and dignitaries came together yesterday for a day of spiritual reflection and community spirit as the Tzu Chi Foundation of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor held its annual Buddha Day ceremony. The event, which also honoured Mother's Day and Tzu Chi Day, offered a powerful three-in-one celebration that emphasised values of compassion, gratitude, and unity. The ceremony, a tradition observed annually on the second Sunday of May, was instituted by Tzu Chi founder Dharma Master Cheng Yen. This year's gathering took place at the Tzu Chi Kepong Chapter, drawing participants from all walks of life in a vibrant and peaceful celebration. The morning session featured solemn chanting, symbolic rituals and a live broadcast from Tzu Chi headquarters in Hualien, Taiwan. With multiple sessions scheduled throughout the day, organisers anticipated total attendance to surpass 10,000 participants. Philanthropist and Berjaya Corporation founder and adviser Tan Sri Vincent Tan was among the prominent figures in attendance. He expressed deep admiration for the volunteers' discipline and commitment. A long-time patron of Tzu Chi Malaysia, Tan has played an instrumental role in promoting its values of compassion, discipline, and community service while also supporting the foundation's charitable missions and helping expand its humanitarian efforts both across Malaysia and internationally. 'This event is incredibly well-organised, and everything is done by volunteers, no event agency, no PR team. 'Even the drone shot of the Tzu Chi logo formation shows their incredible coordination and discipline.' Tan also praised the foundation's extensive charitable work across the globe. 'I've never seen a Buddhist organisation carry out so much charity in such a structured way. Master Cheng Yen never left Taiwan, yet she has created a movement present in over 100 countries. To me, she is a living goddess.' Top Glove Corporation founder Tan Sri Lim Wee Chai echoed the sentiment of collective goodness: 'It's Buddha Day, Mother's Day and Tzu Chi Day. We come together to do good things. When you spend time doing good, you won't have time for wrongdoing.' Lim also urged attendees to embrace healthier and more compassionate lifestyles. 'I wish everyone a healthy body, a healthy mind and financial well-being,' he said, highlighting the benefits of a vegetarian diet. 'Tan Sri Vincent Tan shared earlier that after going vegetarian due to a heart issue 10 years ago, his health has improved tremendously. That's very inspiring.' Also in attendance was Selangor executive councillor Ng Sze Han, who praised the event for promoting unity and compassion. 'Today is a meaningful celebration of Buddha's birth, Tzu Chi Day and Mother's Day – all reminding us of the importance of togetherness,' he said. Visiting Tzu Chi Kepong for the first time, Ng described the experience as both impressive and uplifting. He also extended an invitation to the public to join the Selangor state-level Wesak Day celebration on Saturday, May 17 at 9am at Maha Karuna Vihara in Elmina. As part of this year's festivities, a month-long 'Vesak passport' programme is taking place across 20 Buddhist temples throughout the Klang Valley. 'Anyone can collect a booklet from these temples and receive a stamp at each one,' Ng explained. 'After visiting at least 10, they'll be eligible for a special lucky draw.' He said that the initiative is designed to encourage both locals and tourists to explore and appreciate the spiritual and architectural beauty of the region's temples. 'We hope this inspires more people to discover the cultural richness of Buddhism in our community,' he added. Other dignitaries were Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia Deputy Representative James Buu, Kazakhstan Ambassador Bulat Sugurbayev, Fiji High Commissioner Ratu Etueni Qiolele Caucau, Papua New Guinea Minister Counsellor Noel Leana and Russian Federation Agriculture Ministry Counsellor Vladislav Chernov. Also present were Archbishop Julian Leow, Tan Sri Teo Chiang Kok and Tan Sri Chua Ma Yu, which reflected the broad interfaith and international support for Tzu Chi's humanitarian vision.
The Star
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Taiwanese stars Wan Fang, Johnny Yin perform at Tzu Chi's Da Ai concert in KL
The Discover Da Ai, Embrace Tzu Chi global tour was held at the Tzu Chi Jing Si Hall in Kuala Lumpur on April 27, 2025. Photos: Faihan Ghani/The Star Thousands of people gathered at the Tzu Chi Jing Si Hall in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday evening for the Discover Da Ai, Embrace Tzu Chi global tour. Co-organised by the Taiwan-based television network Da Ai TV, the concert was held to foster stronger humanistic media ties between the Malaysian and Taiwanese communities. It was also aimed to promote the network's mission of healing the mind while spreading the spirit of love, goodness and gratitude through art forms such as dramas, documentaries and music. The three-hour show kicked off with an electrifying drum set by a Taiwanese entrepreneurial group, followed by melodic performances from Taiwanese artistes Wan Fang and Johnny Yin. The three-hour show kicked off with a drum performance by a Taiwanese entrepreneurial group. During her set, Wan Fang, a volunteer at Taiwan's Tzu Chi Charity Foundation since 1999, shared a personal story that highlighted the deep connection she has with the organisation. 'My sister once experienced an earthquake in Hualien and had to relocate to a shelter. 'At the time, we stayed in touch by phone, and she often mentioned how the Tzu Chi volunteers would continue bringing aid, even as the night grew late. 'Their selfless contributions really moved me,' the 57-year-old said. Taiwanese singer-songwriter Wan Fang serenaded the crowd with two songs at the concert. In addition to performances, volunteers and Tzu Chi representatives also took the stage to share testimonies about the charity organisation and insights into Da Ai TV. Brought to tears Since its establishment in 1998, Da Ai TV has focused on promoting positivity through its programming, which covers topics like education, parenting, environmental protection and healthy living. Its content, available on YouTube for those outside of Taiwan, steers clear of politics and violence. 'In life, we are often faced with adversity. But, as long as there's love and hope in our hearts, the pain will eventually pass,' said Tzu Chi Culture and Communication Foundation spokesperson Chen Chu-chi. Fundraising Office assistant director Huang Tien-ming added: 'It's only through love can we complete our lives and build meaningful relationships.' A powerful testimony came from volunteers Ke Guo-shou and Lee Ding-e, whose tumultuous marriage in the past served as the inspiration for the 40-episode Da Ai TV drama The Taste Of Life . Once neglectful of his wife and children, Ke eventually transformed his life after embracing the teachings of Taiwanese Buddhist nun Cheng Yen. Many attendees were brought to tears when Ke dropped to his knees and offered a heartfelt apology to his wife for the pain he had caused her. 'I was wrong in the past, and I want everyone to see it – this was how I used to be, this was how I treated my wife,' he said. Many attendees were moved to tears when a volunteer got on his knees and apologised to his wife for hurting her in the past. The event also showcased several Da Ai TV dramas, with one of the key highlights being The Long Way Home . The story revolves around Jiu Ru, an ex-convict who, fearing judgment, buries his past before marrying a woman. While their contrasting personalities strain their marriage, Jiu Ru gradually overcomes his flaws after founding an organisation dedicated to helping ex-convicts reintegrate into society. The show can be streamed on Da Ai TV's YouTube channel, with new episodes releasing on weekdays at 8pm.
