Sis. Paruadi introducing the ‘family leaders’ to Nalandians. 40 members had volunteered to go through a one-year training course since August 2015 to become group officers.

After a year of officers’ training since August 2015, the much-anticipated “Dhamma Family” programme was finally launched on Saturday, 20 August at Nalanda Centre.  Under this programme, Nalanda members and volunteers are assigned to study and service groups at different locations close to where they reside.

In the first phase of “Dhamma Family” programme, 140 Nalandians based in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur were involved.  Six groups (or “families”) based at Sri Serdang, Seri Kembangan, Bukit Jalil, Subang-Klang, Kajang, and Kuala Lumpur-South were formed.  The programme will be gradually expanded in subsequent phases to include all members and volunteers nationwide, and a few groups overseas.

Nalanda members were in high spirits at the launching of “Dhamma Families” programme.

Nalanda members were in high spirits at the launching of the programme, which aims to improve Dhamma-learning and practice with stronger support from our peers.  Group studies also offer a more informal and personalised setting which is conducive to discussions and deeper learning.

Group leaders were invited one-by-one to draw lots to decide their Family names.

All six groups had drawn their names.

With the launching completed, Nalanda founder Bro. Tan asked members to start their joyful bonding and learning as “family groups”, where mutual assistance and support are the cornerstones of successful learning.

In September, the six “families” have started their group activities and feedback from members has been amazing.  We wish all Nalandians an enjoyable and fulfilling experience participating in the “Dhamma Family” programme.  Sadhu anumodana.

The upasikas of “Dhammaguna” Family based at Subang-Klang.

Sri Serdang Family “Dhammanandi” – which means ‘delighting in Dhamma’.

Family members immediately setting up meeting schedules and activities after the launching.

Members had a ‘family portrait’ after the programme launching.