On November 21, 2024, Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall in Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, was abuzz with excitement. Visitors from across Malaysia and beyond gathered to hear the iconic Dr. Jane Goodall share her message of hope. From early evening, attendees explored the serene hall or enjoyed the warm ambiance of Jing-Si Books & Café, while volunteers offered gracious guidance, exemplifying Tzu Chi’s commitment to harmonious service.
Dr. Jane Goodall’s inspiring journey
Tzu Chi Commissioner Yeo Kar Peng began the evening by introducing the Foundation’s history and values. Established in 1966, Tzu Chi has championed sustainability, compassion, and small acts of kindness that bring about meaningful change.
The spotlight then turned to Dr. Goodall, whose diminutive frame belied her towering contributions to conservation and humanitarianism. She began her talk with childhood memories of her mother’s encouragement to explore nature. One such story described young Jane’s hours-long vigil in a henhouse to observe a hen laying an egg—a moment her mother supported rather than discouraged.
Her passion for animals led her to Africa, where she worked with Dr. Louis Leakey. He entrusted her with the groundbreaking task of studying wild chimpanzees in Gombe, Tanzania. After initial challenges, her persistence bore fruit when she observed David Greybeard, a chimpanzee, using tools—a discovery that rewrote the boundaries of human exceptionalism and earned her recognition from National Geographic.
For over six decades, Dr. Goodall deepened humanity’s understanding of animals, showing their intelligence, emotions, and personalities. However, she also witnessed the devastating consequences of deforestation, climate change, and industrial agriculture. Driven by the need for urgent action, she launched initiatives to protect ecosystems and empower communities through education and sustainable practices.
‘Reasons for Hope’
Despite the challenges, Dr. Goodall delivered a message grounded in hope, structured around four pillars:
1. Youth: She shared the success of her Roots & Shoots programme, launched in 1991, which has inspired young people in over 70 countries to take action for animals, people, and the environment.
2. Nature’s resilience: She highlighted instances of ecosystems recovering and species rebounding, proving the potential for coexistence when humans commit to change.
3. The human spirit: Stories of individuals overcoming adversity affirmed her belief in humanity’s capacity for goodness.
4. Action: “Hope”, she stressed, “is not passive. It must be accompanied by action.” She urged the audience to reflect on their environmental footprint, take small yet impactful steps, and foster a collective vision of a sustainable, peaceful world.
Perspectives from the audience
Dr. Goodall’s talk resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom shared their reflections. Lim Tiong Piow, President of Roots & Shoots Malaysia, captured the spirit of the evening: “In a world filled with war, climate crises, and poverty, hope is the energy that drives positive change and inspires us not to give up.”
Audience member Susan, who travelled over 2,000 kilometres to attend the event, revealed, “I have waited six years to meet Jane Goodall in person. Her work inspired me to pursue my dreams of working with animals.”
Marini Mat Isa noted the synergy between Tzu Chi and the Jane Goodall Institute: “You can feel the positive vibes and hopeful message they bring, making this collaboration truly special.”
Synergies between Tzu Chi and Dr. Goodall
The event also highlighted the shared values of Tzu Chi and Dr. Goodall’s work. Earlier in the evening, Yeo Kar Peng discussed Tzu Chi’s initiatives, such as turning waste into resources and promoting vegetarianism for sustainability. A fashion show featuring garments made from recycled materials demonstrated Tzu Chi’s innovative approach to inspiring sustainable living.
Director of Bandar Utama City Corporation, Tan Sri Teo Chiang Kok, echoed this alignment: “After visiting Tzu Chi, we started our recycling centre. The overwhelming response from residents and shoppers encouraged us to continue this impactful initiative.”
A call to action
Dr. Goodall concluded her talk with a powerful reminder: “Together we can, together we will, together we must save the world.” Her words underscored the urgency of collective action. Aimee Falkum, representing the U.S. Embassy in Malaysia, reflected on the importance of environmental education: “We are teaching the next generation not just to care for the environment but to form an emotional connection with it, fostering a desire to protect it.”
The evening was a testament to the power of hope, action, and collaboration. As Dr. Goodall’s message intertwined with Tzu Chi’s values, attendees left inspired to take meaningful steps towards safeguarding the planet.
For many, this was not just an event—it was a transformative experience, instilling a renewed sense of purpose and the conviction that small actions, driven by compassion, can indeed change the world.
