Nalanda Sungai Petani Branch leaders warmly welcoming the visiting Tzu Chi members.

On Saturday 14 January, a group of 10 members from Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society Malaysia paid an official visit to NEO Centre Sungai Petani. They were warmly welcomed by Nalanda branch leaders and members.  The visit was an initiative by Tzu Chi Merits Society to forge closer friendship with other Buddhist Societies locally.

During the visit, Tzu Chi representative Bro. Chuan Yeong Ming presented two specially crafted gifts to Nalanda – comprising a ceremonial bell and a drum.  Bro. Chuan explained that both are common instruments used to accompany chanting in Mahayana temples.  The symbolism of the bell is to wake us up from ignorance; and the drum is to spur us into exerting effort.

The visitors taking part in Pāli chanting at NEO Centre on Saturday morning.

Visitors and hosts meditating together, enjoying the happiness of serenity.

Nalanda Sungai Petani Branch Chairman Bro. Khaw and Deputy Chairman Dr. Song gratefully received the gifts on behalf of the Society, and in return presented two Dhamma books and Nalanda Bulletins to the visitors. Our friends from Tzu Chi were later hosted on a building tour and lunch.  It was indeed a joyful meeting for everyone which further enhanced the spirit of Buddhist comradeship in Kedah.  We thank our respected Tzu Chi friends for their kind visit and acknowledgment.  Sadhu!

Tzu Chi representatives presenting the bell and drum to Nalanda.

Deputy Branch Chairman Dr. Song hosting the visitors on a building tour.

Enjoying a simple lunch after the building tour to end their official visit. Sadhu!

Lunar New Year ‘open house’

NEO Centre Sungai Petani will host a Lunar New Year ‘open house’ on Saturday, 4 February from 9am to 2pm.  We cordially invite members of the public to visit our ‘open house’ to get to know more about our branch facilities and activities.  All are welcome!