In memory of Chee Meng Yan, a first-generation Tzu Chi volunteer in Singapore
Chee Meng Yan, a first-generation Tzu Chi volunteer in Singapore who was affectionately known as the “Englishman” by the Dharma family, passed away on November 5, 2022. He had been active in Tzu Chi for more than 30 years, helping out in tasks like food preparation, transportation and reception services whenever he was needed. He was the big ship captain at the sutra adaptation performance for the 2014 Year-End Blessing Ceremony and his spirit of perseverance has become a learning model for everyone. Nearly 400 people attended the memorial meeting to mourn his passing.
For more than 20 years, he had been serving at the reception counter of Jing Si Hall, but this figure will never be seen again.
Chee Meng Yan, a first-generation Tzu Chi volunteer in Singapore, passed away on November 5, 2022. At the memorial service, nearly 400 people were present both online and offline to send him off.
Tzu Chi volunteer, Chang Siew Lan: Because there were fewer people in the past, so we participated in every activity together. We often saw Brother Chee cooking for us in the kitchen on the third floor until his face turned red.
Tzu Chi volunteer, Ong Wei Kok: He was seen in every activity, and even when he was not as energetic as before, he still contributed resiliently.
Tzu Chi volunteer, Toh Chin Keong: Today, Brother Chee has left many things behind for us to learn from, including how to be a Bodhisattva who never looked back, and someone who has always loved Tzu Chi.
Tzu Chi volunteer, Lee Siew Lai: When I was a grey-shirt volunteer, he told me that I have to come back quickly as we needed young volunteers. I hope that this navy blue dress uniform can tell him that I am now certified and will treat him as a role model.
Chee Meng Yan, who was certified as a volunteer in 1993, has been active in Tzu Chi for more than 30 years. His role as the big ship captain in the sutra adaptation has been deeply rooted in people’s heart.
Tzu Chi volunteer, Goh Soo Wai: He told us that when he was driving his taxi, he would start practicing the hand gestures at the red light. There was a picture of the steps with Hanyu Pinyin in his car, from there, we know how hard brother had been practising.
Tzu Chi Singapore CEO, Low Swee Seh: The captain of the ship is ill, but he is still determined to help others attain liberation. Although he knew that there was not much time left in his life, he wanted to grasp every minute and second to guide volunteers.
Master Cheng Yen has said that doing is a blessing, and sharing dharma with others is wisdom. This is like a form of double cultivation, so it is very important to do and talk about it.
Step by step, Brother Chee perfectly concluded his 75 years of life. His spirit will always live in people’s hearts.
