The Nalanda Team getting ready to offer food to the homeless in Kuala Lumpur.

On Saturday 17 May, a team of Nalandian youths distributed food to the homeless on the streets of Kuala Lumpur.  Accompanied by Nalanda KL Branch Chairman Bro. Eugene Yong and Dharma School Facilitator Bro. Choong Li, the Youth team spent an hour around midnight combing the streets near Pudu Sentral to offer food to people living on the streets.

The Buddha taught that ‘hunger is the greatest disease’ (“Jighacchā paramā rogā”); hence proper food is essential for one’s well-being.  We thank generous devotees for offering packed rice, buns, fruits, packet drinks, and mineral water for the homeless folks.  More than 100 people were offered food and drinks that night because of your compassion.

Nalandians led by Bro. Choong Li (right) offering food to the homeless in the streets of Kuala Lumpur.

Nalandians periodically offer food to the homeless, especially when there is excess food from Pindacāra (morning alms-round) days.  Food is sorted and packed by volunteers and distributed by youths at night, when the homeless folks ‘appear’.  If you would like to help the homeless, please send us men’s clothes in good conditions.  We are more than happy to help you distribute them to those in need in our next visit.

It may come as a shock to many that thousands of homeless destitute live on the streets of 'prosperous' Kuala Lumpur!

Helping the destitute is not just a charity programme; it is a spiritual one.  Bro. Tan taught all Nalandian volunteers to reflect thus: “Remember that you’re not ‘GIVING’ food to somebody; you are ‘OFFERING’ it.  That means offering respectfully with both hands, with a pleasant countenance, with a few kind words, and with the wholesome thought that, “May this nourishment free you from discomfort.  May you be well.”  Thank you and mettā.