GREAT LOVE

Taiwan Buddhist Tzu-Chi Foundation Malaysia 20 The DisabledKidWhoHad an IronWill Suffering from congenital spinal muscular atrophy, 17-year-old Hazman could only lie down on the floor most of the time. His mother, Hazlina, was his sole caretaker who shouldered the heavy burden. Besides providing aid in kind, Tzu Chi volunteers encouraged and provided mental support to Hazlina during the monthly visits. Despite his physical disability, Hazman had never given up on himself. He was praised for his good results both in school and in government exams. In the 2012 Tzu Chi Study Grant Presentation Ceremony, Hazman donated all his savings from his bamboo bank to help people in need. Study Grant – Breaking through the Barrier of Poverty • In 1997, Tzu Chi initiated the Study Aid plan to help low-income families cope with school fees before schools reopen. • In 2008, Tzu Chi renamed this programme as “Tzu Chi Study Grant” and extended its target to include those from different ethnic groups and vernacular schools. • In 2011, Tzu Chi launched the “Happy Schooling Scheme”, providing meal, transport and tuition fee subsidies to needy students, thereby improving their attendance in schools, academic performances and character development. • In 2013, the Tzu Chi Study Grant was officially transformed into “Tzu Chi Study & Awards Scheme”, giving awards to students with commendable conduct, including Filial Piety Award, Morality Award, Academic Excellence Award, Academic Progress Award, Extracurricular Activities Special Award and Perfect Attendance Award. • In 2014, “Tzu Chi Education Sponsorship Scheme” was introduced to offer monthly grant to needy students with moderately good results. (Remark: Hazman passed away on March 4, 2013)