A Visit from Malaysian Devotees

Devotee from Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Malaysia, Dong Zen branch, Yang Bingfen with 22 of her friends and family came visiting New Zealand (NZ) and on the 8th of July and they have especially arranged to spend time at Fo Guang Shan (FGS) South Island NZ. Warmly welcomed by temple supervisor Venerable Jue Xi and committee member Tracy Chen, the guests were shown around the temple and being introduced to the architectural and meaning of the building.

After prostrating to the Buddha, Venerable Jue Xi explained to the guests that the temple was actually not yet opened to the public, but as the guests came far away from Malaysia, this tour was exceptionally done for them. The tour include the history of FGS South Island NZ’s happenings during the earthquake where the temple gave out free hot food, toiletries and relief assistance to those in need. A year after, the foundation of the temple was realized that it has problems. Prior to that, the temple was under construction and it started with 3 months, then delayed until 3 years and 9 months. The temple that the guests are visiting now is almost complete and just needs a bit of touch up to complete the reconstruction.

The venerable then expressed to the guests, wherever one goes, for studies or holidays, the first thing to always do is to look for a temple and pay a visit to the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. The venerable also encourage youths to study in NZ. FGS South Island NZ will be officially opening next month together with the exhibition of “One Stroke Calligraphy by Venerable Master Hsing Yun”. In the meantime, Water Drop Café would also be ready with vegetarian food and all are welcomed to pay a visit again if the cause and conditions meet. Lastly, the venerable wishes the guests bon voyage and continue in search of wisdom when they return to Dong Zen Temple, Malaysia.