Holistic Education for Integral Human Development
11th National Nalanda Members Convention – Day 1
11th National Nalanda Members Convention – Day 1
A truly inspiring and uplifting 11th National Nalanda Members’ Convention.
From 31 May to 2 June, more than a hundred Nalanda members across Malaysia gathered in Wisdom Park for the 11th National Nalanda Members Convention. It was a joyful reunion for everyone after a year of hard work and selfless service.
The first day of the Convention consisted of insightful sessions to understand the core of Nalanda. The first session with President Sis. Buddhinī Tan explored what we stand for – i.e. Holistic Buddhist Education. Every initiative, relationship, and purpose of Nalanda’s education programmes has to radiate from a central commitment: to facilitate inner transformation based on Buddha-Dhamma, and to propagate this process joyfully.
The Convention commenced with offerings to the Three Jewels, represented by Nalanda President and Branch Chairpersons.
Deputy President Bro. Charlie Teng leading members in taking the Three Refuges and Five Precepts.
Honorary Secretary Sis. Livin Leow welcoming members to the Convention to a welcomingly thunderous applause.
Ice-breaker – Rekindling friendship and getting to know new members.
Ice-breaker – Finding group members for the Convention
Ice-breaker – Meeting group members for the Convention.
An opening sketch that brought up relatable situations in Nalanda with light-hearted humour but reflective of what we need to address.
To strengthen this core, we have to understand what are the conditions that uphold Nalanda, including our leaders, members, teachers, environment and culture. Sis. Sunandā Ong expanded upon Nalanda’s culture; they are the expressions of the values we uphold and the collective actions that fosters unity in the community.
The day also introduced new members to the community and showcased Nalanda members whose exemplary qualities are worthy of emulation. The highlight of this was a heartfelt sharing by long-time member Bro. Ooi Choong Li who had met with a major accident back in 2019, and has made a remarkable recovery to join the Convention again after six long years.
Nalanda President Sis. Buddhinī Tan explored what Nalanda stands for – i.e. Holistic Buddhist Education. She shared that every initiative, relationship, and purpose of Nalanda’s education programmes has to radiate from a central commitment: to facilitate inner transformation based on Buddha-Dhamma, and to propagate this process joyfully.
Sis. Sunandā Ong expanded upon Nalanda’s culture; they are the expressions of the values we uphold and the collective actions that fosters unity in the community.
Group members presenting scenarios in a sketch on the culture and values to uphold at Nalanda.
Achariya Vijaya paid a special visit to the Convention and gave his encouragement to Nalanda members present.
Achariya Vijaya presenting appreciation gifts to exemplary Nalanda members.
Achariya Vijaya and Sis. Buddhinī Tan with the nominated exemplary Nalanda members. (From L-R : Sis. Loh Pei Qi, Bro. Tan Thian Khoon, Bro. Dexel Loo, Bro. Vincent Lim, Sis. Doris Tan, Sis. Ho Wen Ying, Sis. Lim Poh Chin).
A heartfelt sharing by long-time member Bro. Ooi Choong Li who had met with a major accident back in 2019. and has made a remarkable recovery to join the Convention again after six long years. His presence and words touched the hearts of all members, a testament to the challenges he had to surmount and the mental strength and fortitude put forth – the true spirit of a Nalanda member.
“Samagganam tapo sukho – Happy is the practice of the united ones.” – Dhammapada verse 194. In the evening, Bro. Ajita Lim echoed the message of unity and harmony, which extends to shared Dhamma practice. “Samagganam tapo sukho – Happy is the practice of the united ones.”
It was a day filled with heartfelt sharings and tears of joy. Members developed a clearer understanding of Nalanda’s direction, and reignited their drive in serving the community.
For more photos, please click here