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.
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.
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.
Stay tuned tomorrow for more photos and article on Day 2 of the Convention!