Malaysian Wedding Customs

By | May 12, 2018 | Views: 10,550
Malay wedding

In Malaysia, it is common for the Malay bride’s fingers to be decorated with henna for her wedding. (Photo credit: mariefranceasia.com)

Malaysian weddings are diverse, unique and colourful affairs, as is to be expected in a country that is a melting pot of cultures and faiths. Generally speaking, wedding customs in Malaysia are determined based on the couple’s race, religion or both. As a large percentage of Malaysians are Malays, and given that Malaysia’s constitution provides that all Malays are to be Muslims, Malay weddings are typically steeped in Malay traditions and solemnised according to the tenets of Islam.

On the other hand, Chinese wedding customs are diverse as there are many different sub-ethnic groups such as the Cantonese, Hokkiens, Hakkas and Peranakan Cina (Baba Nyonyas). Coupled with the different religions practised by Malaysian Chinese, there are numerous options of wedding rites and customs to choose from. The Chinese wedding may or may not include religious aspects but traditional Chinese rites are usually observed. Chinese Christians may include a church ceremony as part of their wedding while those who are Buddhists or Taoists may include a blessing ceremony at the temple.

Malaysians of Indian descent usually opt for weddings based on their religion, whether it is Hinduism, Christianity, Buddhism or Islam, as well as the sub-ethnic group they belong to. Hindu Indians usually incorporate a blessing and solemnisation ceremony at the temple while Christian Indians normally include a church ceremony as part of their wedding.

The sheer number of possible permutations based on ethnicity, sub-ethnicity, religious beliefs and personal preference results in a variety of wedding customs unlike anywhere else in the world. Some of the most unique Malaysian weddings are interracial marriages which are a fusion of the cultures and customs of the happy couple, resulting in a one-of-a-kind wedding where love and respect matter more than faith, colour or race.

No matter what race or religion, these are the elements that are usually present when a Malaysian couple gets married.

  1. Proposal
  2. Engagement ceremony
  3. Marriage registration
  4. Religious rites to solemnise the union
  5. Wedding rites
  6. Wedding celebration

 

Muslim Weddings

 

Merisik

The Malay wedding usually starts off with the merisik ceremony (loosely translated as ‘to investigate’) when the groom’s family pay a visit to the potential bride’s family to state their intention of marriage. When both parties are happy with the potential union of the bride and groom, the next step takes place.

 

Meminang

Once both families have reached an agreement for marriage, representatives from the groom’s family visit the bride’s family to discuss the meminang (engagement) ceremony. During the visit, a number of matters are also discussed including:

  • The date and time for the meminang ceremony
  • The amount the groom will pay for the wedding expenses
  • The gifts that will be exchanged
  • The date and time of the wedding and reception

On the day of the meminang ceremony, the groom will bring a set of gifts (hantaran) for the bride which usually includes a gold or diamond ring, a betel leaf container with betel leaves, a set of new clothes, a shawl, fruits or foods, a handbag and a pair of shoes. These gifts, with the exception of the ring, are then presented to the bride on an odd number of trays. The ring is then placed on the bride’s finger by her older sister or the groom’s aunt.

She will then return the trays with gifts for her future husband which will include a songkok (traditional hat), a prayer mat and a set of clothes. During the ceremony, the bride and groom are represented by relatives, whom they have carefully selected, to determine the date for the akad nikah (wedding) ceremony.

Hantaran

Beautifully decorated hantaran for the bride that includes a Quran, shoes, clothes, toiletries and jewellery. Some hantaran may also include fruits, cakes and chocolates.

 

Akad Nikah

This is the spiritual aspect of the wedding ceremony and is usually performed by a religious official, who ensures that the marriage is consensual. At times, this ceremony may also be performed by the bride’s father in the presence of a religious official. Two official witnesses must also be present. Thereafter, a marriage certificate is issued by the religious representatives of the state, which is signed by the bride, the groom and both witnesses.

 

Bersanding

The bersanding ceremony is the highlight of the Malay wedding. On the day of the bersanding, the groom is not allowed to enter the bride’s house until she sends him a prepared betel leaf, which is a sign that she is ready for his arrival. The groom then makes his way to the bride’s house with his procession, including his female relatives and musicians playing various drums.

The arrival of the groom is followed by a pencak silat (traditional Malay martial arts) performance, which is a sign of welcome for the groom. After the performance, the bride and groom are seated on a decorated dais, very much like how a king and queen sit on their thrones. Hence, it is common for the wedded couple to be called “Raja Sehari” or “King for a Day”.

The couple are then blessed by members of both families with rose water, henna, sandalwood paste and rice flour paste. After receiving their blessings, the couple makes their way to the foyer or garden for the reception and to meet well-wishers.

Malay wedding - Bersanding

The highlight of a Malay wedding is the bersanding ceremony where the bride and groom’s union is celebrated and blessed by all family members and friends.

 

Christian Weddings

Church Ceremony

A church wedding (Photo credit: MunKeat Studio)

A Christian wedding ceremony takes place in a church and is presided over by the priest or pastor. The ceremony starts with the bridal march where the bride walks in to the church on the arm of her father (or mother), preceded by her bridal procession. The bridal march is usually accompanied by music of the couple’s choice and the bridal procession may include ring bearers, flower girls, the maid of honour (usually someone who is married) and bridesmaids.

 

Introductory Rites

The priest or pastor starts by welcoming members of the congregation and then proceeds with a session of praise and worship. A short sharing or sermon usually follows and may include advice on how to have a meaningful marriage and how to walk the spiritual path together as a couple.

 

Solemnisation and Exchange of Rings

The priest or pastor presides over the solemnisation ceremony in the presence of the congregation and two witnesses. The couple exchange their vows which includes vows to be true to each other in good and bad times. The rings are then blessed and one is given to the groom to place on the bride’s finger. The other is given to the bride to place on the groom’s finger. While exchanging the rings, the couple declares their love and fidelity.

Exchange of rings

The exchange of rings is one of the highlights of a church wedding. (Photo credit: speechfoodie.com)

 

Recessional

The service continues with the concluding prayer and nuptial blessings for the couple’s well-being. After this, the bride and groom usually sign the marriage register and then proceed out of the church with their entourage. There may be a celebratory reception after the church service.

 

Chinese Buddhist Weddings

Buddhist weddings in Malaysia are normally associated with Chinese weddings although a Chinese wedding may not always be a Buddhist one. Couples usually register their marriage before the actual wedding and reception, which can be held at a later date. Weddings are a big deal in the Chinese community and couples go to great lengths in order to have a perfect wedding.

The Chinese wedding ceremony usually consists of two parts – the tea ceremony and the reception. Before the tea ceremony, the groom and his groomsmen make their way to the bride’s house. Upon arrival, the groom is not allowed in by the bridesmaids until his groomsmen perform some stunts or tricks while giving out traditional red packets of money (angpow) to the bridesmaids as a form of “payment” for the groom to get to the bride. Once the bridesmaids are happy with the payments, they will allow the groom into the bride’s room.

 

Tea Ceremony

The groom and the bride then make their way back to his house for the tea ceremony. During the tea ceremony, the couple serves tea to the groom’s parents, and then to the rest of the family beginning with the oldest member and ending with the youngest member. This usually applies to married relatives. After each person is served tea, the couple receives a red packet of money from them or jewellery.

When the couple has served tea to all the elders, they then take a seat for the younger, unmarried siblings and relatives to serve tea to them. After sipping the tea, the newlyweds will give an angpow to those who served them, denoting their new status as an elder. The bride and groom then return to the bride’s home for another tea ceremony with the bride’s parents and relatives.

Tea ceremony

The tea ceremony is one of the most important parts of a Malaysian Chinese wedding. (Photo credit: promessastudios.com)

Traditionally, the tea ceremony served as a marriage rite to validate the union. Prior to 1982, this customary marriage rite was sufficient to declare the union legal. However, after 1982, all marriages had to be registered with the National Registration Department to be considered legal.

After the tea ceremony, some couples visit the temple to pray for a blissful wedded life or to have a Buddhist wedding ceremony.

 

Kechara’s Marriage Ceremony

At Kechara House, the Buddhist marriage ceremony begins with the bride and groom being ushered to a private room where a Buddhist pastor performs their registration of marriage. After signing the marriage certificate, the couple recites vows composed by Kechara’s spiritual guide, H.E. the 25th Tsem Rinpoche. They then exchange rings.

Wedding Vows Composed by H.E. Tsem Rinpoche

  1. I will be faithful to you.
  2. I will support you in all difficulties.
  3. I will improve my weak points for you.
  4. I will defend you.
  5. I will respect your beliefs.
  6. I will share what I have with you.
  7. I make this promise to you.
Kechara wedding 2

One of Kechara’s Buddhist pastors blessing the newlyweds.

After being pronounced husband and wife, the couple then goes to the main prayer hall where they are blessed by a pastor. The bride and groom can also offer candles and other items to the Buddhas such as incense, flowers, fruit, precious stones and monk robes.

To celebrate the marriage, a wedding reception or banquet is usually held after all rites and formalities are concluded. A typical Chinese wedding customarily includes loud toasts to the couple’s wedded bliss and a sumptuous nine-course banquet.

KO

Chinese weddings in Malaysia usually end with a vibrant wedding banquet. (Photo credit: Kechara Oasis)

 

Hindu Weddings

There are 11 different Indian sub-ethnic groups in Malaysia with Tamils being the largest. As such, there is no single standard Hindu wedding. In general, a Hindu wedding in Malaysia will consist of these three important ceremonies.

  1. Kanyadaan: Giving away of the bride
  2. Panigrahana: A sacred fire ritual where the groom takes the hand of the bride as the sign of their union
  3. Saptapadi: The most important ritual called the seven-step ritual, where each step corresponds to a vow the groom makes to the bride, and a vow the bride makes to the groom.

After Saptapadi, the couple officially becomes husband and wife in accordance with Hindu tradition.

Hindu wedding

The Hindu wedding is vibrant, colourful and full of religious rituals.

 

Graha Shanti, Mehendi and Bangles Ceremony

During this ceremony, the Hindu bride is beautifully dressed and adorned with haldi, a turmeric-based herbal paste believed to purify the body, mind and spirit in preparation for the wedding day. Haldi also signifies protection in some Indian communities.

Next, the bride’s hands and feet are adorned with henna designs in the Mehendi ceremony. It is believed that the deeper the colour of the henna, the deeper the couple’s love will be in the future.

The bride is then presented with a set of colourful jewellery and bangles by the groom’s family. The bangles are blessed by a priest during the Bangles Ceremony. A Ganesh puja is performed to invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha so that he removes any obstacles that may arise during the marriage ceremony. Other pujas are also performed dedicated to the couple’s happy married life.

 

Arrival of the Groom

On the wedding day, the groom and his entourage arrive with plenty of fanfare and they are greeted by the bride’s family and friends. The groom is then anointed on the forehead with a tilak (a vermillion paste traditionally used during special occasions) and a garland of flowers is placed around his neck. Next, the bride walks in with her entourage and she joins the groom for the subsequent marriage rites.

 

Kanyadan

During the Kanyadan ceremony, the father of the bride places her hand on the groom’s hand, symbolising him giving her hand in marriage. The bride’s mother then pours water into the bride’s father’s hand, who is holding a gold coin to symbolise his daughter. The groom accepts the coin and then hands it to his parents as a sign of them welcoming her into their family.

The next ritual is the highlight of a Hindu wedding – tying the thali. The groom ties the thali, a gold necklace that has been blessed by a Hindu priest, around the bride’s neck as a symbol of eternal love. It marks the start of their life together as man and wife.

 

Panigrahana

The Panigrahana ritual, meaning clasping of the hand, originated from an ancient Vedic gesture of friendship. It reminds us that a marriage is, in essence, a special kind of friendship.

In this ritual, the groom holds the bride’s hands before taking a vow that he will be responsible for protecting and caring for her. This ceremony takes place in front of the sacred fire that symbolises knowledge and power.

Hindu wedding 1

Panigrahana or clasping of the hand signifies the groom’s vow to care for and protect the bride for as long as he lives.

 

Saptapadi

This ritual requires the couple to take seven steps around the sacred fire, led by the groom. As they walk around the sacred fire, the groom recites the seven marital vows:

  1. To love and be faithful to each other
  2. To treat each other’s families as their own
  3. To share joys and sorrows
  4. To care for children
  5. To cherish each other and continuously strengthen their love
  6. To support each other’s goals
  7. To remain lifelong friends

Upon completion of the Panigrahana and Saptapadi rituals, the couple are now officially husband and wife. Family and friends then take turns to offer their blessings to the newlyweds in a ritual called ashirvad.

 

Baba Nyonya Weddings

In the olden days, the Baba Nyonya wedding was a very elaborate affair lasting 12 days. It is said that the status of a Baba family can be measured by how grand the family wedding is. These days however, the Baba Nyonya wedding has been condensed to a more modern and practical version that still retains its colourful and meaningful heritage, rites and customs.

Or view the video on the server at:
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Sang Jit and Lap Chai

The pre-nuptial ceremony, Sang Jit, is the presentation of the birth certificates of both the bride and groom. This stems from the matchmaking tradition of yesteryears when it was imperative to find a good match in order to have a long and happy marriage. The pair’s Chinese date and time of birth are given to a qualified geomancer who will do some calculations and consult the Buku Pek Ji, which is Ba Zi, to ascertain if the pair is a good match. If they are, the Lap Chai ceremony follows.

The Lap Chai ceremony usually takes place a few days before the wedding. On this day, the groom together with his entourage will visit the bride’s family bearing gifts which includes two bottles of liquor, a set of jewellery, clothes, shoes, a pair of dragon and phoenix candles, Pek Kim (the dowry), Wang Tetek (a monetary token to the bride’s mother for breastfeeding her), wedding cakes and pork trotters (to denote the bride’s virginity). In return, the bride’s family reciprocates with gifts such as a pair of red candles, juices, clothes and some food items.

After the Lap Chai ceremony, both families gather at the couple’s new home to set up their bridal chamber. This ceremony is known as Ann Chng.

 

Cheo Thau

The most important ceremony in a Baba Nyonya wedding is Cheo Thau, also known as the hair-combing ceremony. This is a significant rite of passage marking the transition from a Nyonya girl to a woman ready for the next milestone of her life – marriage. This lengthy ceremony has many meaningful rituals beginning with Naik Sanggol (combing the hair into an elaborate wedding hairdo complete with exquisite adornments and jewellery) to the donning of the traditional seven–layer wedding costume.

Prior to the Cheo Thau ceremony, the bride’s family performs the Pasang Lilin which is a prayer ritual of lighting candles at an elaborate altar called the Sam Kai, complete with richly embroidered tablecloths, Chanab (offerings handmade from flowers and fruits), bowls of fresh fruit, sugarcane, dried fruit, red dates and rock sugar, all decorated with intricate Chinese red paper cuttings. Once everyone has offered prayers to the God of Heaven and the ancestors, the bride then kneels and pays homage (sohjah) to her parents as a mark of respect.

This ceremony is presided over by a Sang Kek Em, a mistress of ceremonies who is familiar with all the rituals. A black veil is placed over the bride’s face at the conclusion of Cheo Thau and she then sits to wait for her groom.

 

Chim Pang and Chia Sia

The groom and his representatives arrive in a grand procession complete with a band playing traditional wedding music and men carrying auspicious lanterns. The Chim Pang ceremony then follows where the couple meets for the first time and the groom proceeds to unveil the bride. The couple is then served tea and sweet dumplings (kueh ee), symbolising a sweet and lasting marriage.

Next, the Chia Sia ceremony takes place in the bride’s room with all the guests present. The purpose of this ceremony is for the guests to make the bride laugh. If they succeed in making her laugh uncontrollably, the groom will then have to pay for everyone’s dinner. After this, and to signify the end of the ceremony, a rooster and hen are released under the couple’s bed. If the rooster emerges first, it’s a sign that the couple’s firstborn will be a boy.

 

Sohjah Tiga Hari

Although traditionally performed on the third day of the wedding, these days the Sohjah Tiga Hari ceremony is performed on the wedding day itself. During this ceremony, the couple pays their respects to their parents and the elders of the family by serving sweet tea according to the family hierarchy. In return, they will be given a red packet with money.

Once this is concluded, the couple is officially man and wife and it is time for a wedding feast called Makan Tok Panjang. In the olden days, the wedding banquet, consisting of many delicacies, was usually served on long tables and in the Baba patois, tok panjang means “long table”. The wedding festivities continue with music, joget (traditional Baba Nyonya dance of Malay origins) and Dondang Sayang, an art form where poems are sung to the signature Dondang Sayang tune.

Sohjah

During Sohjah Tiga Hari, the couple kneels and serves tea to pay respects to all the elders. (Photo credit: chasingfooddreams.com)

 

Melaka Chetti Weddings

 

Buang Suara

A chetti wedding kicks off when a representative from the groom’s family visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.

 

Sandanggu

Once the union has been agreed upon, the next ceremony – sandanggu – takes place. During this ceremony, the bride is covered in a turmeric paste and bathed. This symbolises her purity before she enters into marriage. Thereafter, she is dressed in a traditional baju kebaya and a decorative hairpiece known as cucuk sanggul is pinned on her bun to symbolise that she is now a woman and ready for marriage.

Once the bride is dressed, a Hindu priest and five married women take turns to bless her. They wave their hands around her while holding a number of objects – rose water, dried cow dung, a pot of water, rice, a pestle, bread, a local sweet cake known as putu piring and an oil lamp. Once the ceremony has concluded, the bride eats the putu piring.

Melaka Chetti Wedding 1

Melaka Chetti wedding (Photo credit: nst.com.my)

 

Tukar Cincin

As the groom makes his way to the bride’s house for the engagement proper, he is accompanied by an entourage bearing seven trays on which are betel leaves, rose water, dried fragrant flower petals, rock sugar, a saree and bangles, jasmine flowers, fruits and an old coconut covered with turmeric.

The bride wears the saree that is presented to her and afterwards, the groom hands over the dowry (Duit Tetek) to the bride’s mother while gold jewellery is given to the bride. A Hindu priest usually presides over the ceremony. Once the bride and groom exchange rings, the ceremony is officially over. The newly-engaged couple then seek the blessings of the elders of both families.

 

Hantar Sirih Kuil

In the olden days, a pair of sirih pinang (betel nut set) were sent to family and friends as an invitation to the upcoming nuptials. These days, flower garlands, rose water, fruits, old coconuts, the wedding invitation card and sirih pinang are presented to the committee of the Chetti temple for blessings along with archanai or offerings made on behalf of the groom. After the blessings, wedding invitations are distributed to the bride and groom’s family and friends.

 

Naik Tiang

Prior to commencing any preparations for the wedding proper, a branch of the kalyana murunga, translated as “wedding tree”, is planted in front of the house.

 

Sembahyang Thali

The wedding thali is first bathed in milk and blessed by family members, along with the wedding clothes. A thali or mangalasutram is a necklace given by the groom to the bride carrying the same significance as a wedding ring. Once the prayers are completed, married women of the family help with the berinai — the couple get their fingertips and toes covered with freshly made henna paste.

 

Hari Kahwin

On the actual wedding day, the bride and groom walk from their respective homes to the temple, accompanied by family members, an entourage of musicians, kompang and bunga manggar. After a visit to the temple, the newly-weds join family, relatives and friends for a feast before being escorted back to the groom’s house.

 

Mandi Mandi

In the fun-filled mandi mandi, family members followed by the entire community present take turns to bathe the couple with air bunga (water scented with flowers). A Chetti wedding celebration is not complete without joget (a local folk dance) and Dondang Sayang, where impromptu verses of poetry are sung to traditional music.

 

Orang Asli Weddings

There are 18 different Orang Asli ethnic groups in Malaysia, each with its own unique language, lifestyle and customs. Marriage for the Orang Asli is a very casual affair and the wedding ceremony differs from tribe to tribe. Some groups do not even have a “formal” wedding ceremony as the couple is considered married once they start sleeping or living together.

These days, many Orang Asli have assimilated the wedding customs of other ethnic groups that live near their villages. Furthermore, with the introduction of Islam and Christianity, religious rites have replaced traditional animistic rituals.

Below are the wedding customs of the Semai tribe, the largest Orang Asli ethnic group in Peninsular Malaysia. For the Semai, the courtship and prenuptial rituals are just as significant as the actual wedding itself.

Orang Asli wedding

Although there are 18 different Orang Asli groups, each with unique wedding customs and rites, one of the common customs practised by most groups is the membentang belanja.

 

Mencari Jodoh

This is the stage where a young male Orang Asli of marrying age searches for a suitable lady as his life partner. The male Orang Asli travels to other villages to seek his bride. In the olden days, Orang Asli villages were far apart and it took four to six days to travel from one village to another on foot.

Once he finds a suitable candidate, he will spend the night at his future bride’s house. His presence and intentions are usually understood by the head of the bride’s family, who then proceeds to the next stage.

 

Pelawaan

At dusk, the father or head of the family will request his daughter to place a mat beside her bed. The potential groom will then be invited by the father to choose his resting place for the night. Should he wish to marry her, he will choose the mat or sleeping place set out by the potential bride. However, if he chooses not to marry her, he will opt to sleep in the living room.

Should there be more than one daughter of marrying age in the house, the father will have them all lay out mats at their respective beds and the young suitor will indicate his preference by sleeping on the mat laid out by the maiden of his choice. Once the couple has spent the night together, they are deemed husband and wife by the community.

It is common for couples to choose not to have any celebration or “formal” wedding and just continue to live as husband and wife with either the wife’s or husband’s family.

 

Merisik

Should there be a wedding ceremony, the pre-nuptials begin with merisik. During the merisik ceremony, both sets of parents discuss the wedding arrangements with the bride and groom.

Once they have reached an agreement, they will meet with the village head (Tuk Penghulu) to seek his blessings and request his agreement to preside over the wedding. The Tuk Penghulu will also give the bride and groom advice and guidance on married life.

 

Meminang

In this betrothal ceremony, the groom-to-be sends gifts to the bride-to-be, which includes her wedding attire (salin tiga), a dowry of RM60.25 (belanja tubuh), a head scarf (selendang), a silver ring (cincin perak) and a betel nut set (sirih pinang). The betel nut set is used during the wedding discussions.

 

Tanggung Nafkah

While they are engaged, it is customary for the groom-to-be to give his future wife an “allowance”, which can be cash (RM15 per month) or groceries sent directly to the bride’s home.

 

Bertunang

During the engagement period, the groom brings gifts that will be used during their wedding such as a set of bedding, a wedding gown and shoes. At this stage, the groom will also start preparing his own wedding attire which includes a black songkok (traditional Malay headgear), kain selempang dada/selendang (a sash-like cloth worn across the chest), and baju melayu (traditional formal attire for Malay men) complete with sampin and shoes.

 

Hari Perkahwinan

Before the bersanding ceremony, which is usually the highlight of the wedding, the couple undergoes many customary rituals to ward off unwanted bad luck that may jeopardise the wedding. These rituals include henna painting, a haircut for the groom, and a mandatory lime bath. During the preparation of the lime bath, protective spells to ward off misfortune are infused into the bath water through special rituals. Once these preliminary rites are completed, the couple puts on their wedding attire which includes traditional headgear made from nipah leaves.

 

Istiadat Berarak

This is the bridal procession where the groom and his entourage make their way to the bride’s home. Should the groom be the son of the village head, he will be carried on a sedan chair. A musical troupe accompanies the groom’s entourage and this colourful lively procession also includes poetry recitations (berbalas pantun).

 

Merenjis/Menabur

Traditionally, the top corner of the bride’s main door will be decorated with banana leaves. Upon his arrival, the groom performs the merenjis ritual before entering the bride’s home. He sprinkles some water on the banana leaves and tosses some rice puffs. The bride’s side of the family welcomes the groom by saying “Selamat datang” three times.

 

Memohon Tanda

The entrance to the bride’s room is draped with a curtain as a symbolic barrier. Before the groom is granted permission to see his bride, he must pass Mas Wali (the bride’s eldest representative) and his/her group. Mas Wali will first mohon tanda (request for signs) before admitting the groom into the bridal chamber. This may be in the form of pantun or Malay poems. Permission to enter is only granted after three rounds of mohon tanda.

Ibu Wali (the groom’s oldest representative) and his/her group then presents the groom with a keris (traditional Malay dagger) signifying that he is the correct groom. In a Semai tribal wedding, the couple’s parents rarely have significant ceremonial roles as these are the responsibility of the four oldest family members, usually the grandparents or grandparents’ siblings, who act as representatives (wali) of the bride and groom.

 

Bersanding

Once the curtain is drawn, the groom and his entourage make their way onto the wedding dais and the groom is seated on the right of the bride. The ceremonies of Istiadat Menyuap Nasi Kunyit/Nasi Damai, where the couple feed each other with turmeric-flavoured rice — their first official meal as a couple, and Makan Daun Sirih (chewing betel nuts) will then commence, witnessed by the bridal couple’s closest family members and representatives.

 

Menyembah

Lastly, the couple pays their respects to their parents, in-laws and other family members in the menyembah ceremony. Thereafter, it is customary to perform the ceremony known as membentang belanja dalam adat, where the dowry and monetary gifts are presented including:

  • Belanja hangus (RM100) and belanja tambahan kenduri (an amount for the wedding banquet)
  • Belanja tubuh 60 tengah 3, dalam adat atau kering which is essentially the dowry to the bride. Dalam adat means that half the dowry is presented while kering means that the full dowry is given.

During this ceremony, advice and guidance on married life is given to the newlyweds by the person presiding over the proceedings, usually the Tuk Penghulu. Once this is concluded, the couple is deemed husband and wife according to Semai customs.

Semai wedding - Blessing

The bride’s representative blessing the couple

 

Iban Weddings

 

Nanya Indu

The nanya indu or engagement ceremony is the first part of the Iban wedding, where the groom and his entourage usually enter the bride’s house with much fanfare and amidst tawak (gong beats) to ask her parents for her hand in marriage. This is done in the presence of his parents and her relatives.

Once the bride’s parents have given their consent, the two families discuss important matters such as the size of the wedding and where the couple will live after getting married.

Iban wedding

A traditional Iban wedding (Photo credit: malaysia.my)

 

Melah Pinang

One of the most important ceremonies of the Iban wedding is the melah pinang, during which the bride and groom are dressed in traditional Iban garb. The groom wears a woven loincloth, an animal-skin vest, silver armlets, a belt and a woven hat of hornbill and pheasant feathers and goat fur. Meanwhile, the bride wears a woven skirt adorned with silver coins, tiny brass bells, a silver and rattan corset, a beaded collar, silver bangles, armlets and anklets. Her outfit is completed with a silver headpiece that is secured with silver hairpins.

The ceremony is carried out with the bride and groom seated on a gong and draped with a pua kumbu, a colourful ceremonial cloth. An Iban priest, known as the lemambang, blesses the couple by sacrificing a white rooster. This is followed by a blessing ceremony and the rooster is then placed on a receptacle as an offering.

Thereafter, the couple exchange pua kumbu and a woven skirt is gifted to the bride. To conclude the ceremony, a betel nut is placed on the pua kumbu and chopped in half. If one side faces up and the other faces down, it is a good omen.

Iban Wedding 1

An Iban couple is greeted by well-wishers at the end of their wedding ceremony. (Photo credit: Iban Warrior Facebook page)

 

Kadazan Weddings

 

Merisik

The Kadazan wedding starts with the merisik process where the parents of the groom visit the family of the bride. The groom’s father usually begins the conversation by saying that he has a son of marriageable age. He then proceeds to say that he would like to have his son married to the prospective bride.

Once the bride’s parents accept the proposal, they will visit the groom’s family to get to know the groom better and to gauge whether his family is able to afford the dowry. After this visit and once both parties agree for the couple to be wed, the groom’s family makes a second visit to the bride’s family to discuss the wedding preparations.

The dowry for the bride usually consists of 15 buffaloes, 10 brass cannons, 3 large Chinese jars and a brass gong. If the bride’s parents want more, then negotiations will take place. Once both parties have come to an agreement, they will discuss the terms of payment, whether the dowry will be paid in instalments or substituted with money for some objects. While everything else can be paid for with cash, two buffaloes cannot be substituted for cash.

Kazadan wedding 2

A traditional Kazadan wedding

 

The Ceremony

On the day of their wedding, the couple sits in the middle of the house and they are served rice, which must be from a wok to symbolise that they will always have enough. Then, the bride and groom are each given a rice ball, which they must feed to each other. This act symbolises their unification as husband and wife.

Once this is done, the guests are then served from the communal work. The bride and groom are also given chicken drumsticks to eat as the groom is not allowed to eat the meat from the buffalo that was slaughtered for the feast for fear he will not be able to father children.

The day after the wedding, the groom takes his bride to his parents’ home where they will stay until they can afford to move out to their own house. Three months after the wedding, the groom visits his in-laws, bringing with him a pig which will be ceremoniously slaughtered and eaten by the whole family. This is to signify that they are now blood relatives.

Kazadan wedding

The bride and groom feeding each other with rice balls, a symbol of their union as husband and wife.

 

References:

  • https://www.planyourwedding.my/blog/a-guide-hindu-weddings-malaysia
  • http://www.chasingfooddreams.com/2013/07/a-southern-peranakan-wedding-affair.html
  • http://www.malaysia.my/article/culture/a_peranakan_affair/
  • http://adatbudayapermata.blogspot.my/2009/03/adat-dan-budaya-orang-asli-siri-1.html
  • http://www.malaysia.my/article/culture/a_longhouse_engagement/
  • http://www.flyingdusun.com/004_Features/013_Kadazanwedding.htm

 

For more interesting information:

 

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Sharon Ong
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This former Wesak Day Buddhist’s idea of spirituality came in the form of Yoda in Star Wars. Fortunately, she met an awesome spiritual teacher, H.E. the 25th Rinpoche, who is the catalyst and steady guide in her current spiritual path.
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12 Responses to Malaysian Wedding Customs

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  1. nicholas on Sep 21, 2019 at 2:06 pm

    A wedding is a ceremony where two people are united in marriage. Wedding traditions and customs vary greatly between cultures, ethnic groups, religions, countries, and social classes. Most wedding ceremonies involve an exchange of wedding vows by the couple, presentation of a gift (offering, ring(s), symbolic item, flowers, money), and a public proclamation of marriage by an authority figure. Special wedding garments are often worn, and the ceremony is sometimes followed by a wedding reception. Music, poetry, prayers or readings from religious texts or literature are also commonly incorporated into the ceremony.

    In Malaysia, such a unique country we can witness such beautiful varies wedding ceremonies. Malaysia is a beautiful country where harmony is instilled in everyone and that is why the traditions and customs of different races and ethnic able to preserved and passed down from one generation to another generation.

  2. Pastor Adeline Woon on Jul 28, 2018 at 6:36 am

    Nice short video of a new LED signage reminding us of who we can go to for blessings in case of need: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBwrkaKUoH0

  3. Joy Kam on Jul 26, 2018 at 3:29 am

    Listening to the chanting of sacred words, melodies, mantras, sutras and prayers has a very powerful healing effect on our outer and inner environments. It clears the chakras, spiritual toxins, the paths where our ‘chi’ travels within our bodies for health as well as for clearing the mind. It is soothing and relaxing but at the same time invigorates us with positive energy. The sacred sounds invite positive beings to inhabit our environment, expels negative beings and brings the sound of growth to the land, animals, water and plants. Sacred chants bless all living beings on our land as well as inanimate objects. Do download and play while in traffic to relax, when you are about to sleep, during meditation, during stress or just anytime. Great to play for animals and children. Share with friends the blessing of a full Dorje Shugden puja performed at Kechara Forest Retreat by our puja department for the benefit of others. Tsem Rinpoche

    Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbzgskLKxT8&t=5821s

  4. Liang Jing o(* ̄▽ ̄*)ブ on Jul 15, 2018 at 10:51 pm

    I feel lucky that i live in a multi-racial country, i get to learn three different languages, know and attend many different kind of wedding. From this article, I know better about marriage customs of Malaysians races. Every races and religions have different ways of wedding. When I knows better about their wedding, I can know better about their tradition and culture. This will become the foundation to interact better with them.
    Thank You Rinpoche and Sharon for sharing this article.

  5. wan wai meng on Jun 20, 2018 at 1:21 am

    All wedding ceremonies are to invite much auspiciousness and to bless the couple who will be spending their lives together. All the elaborate ceremonies and rituals are meant to ensure the couple has the best start to their marriage.

  6. Tom on Jun 6, 2018 at 12:52 pm

    Wow! Well researched article. Thanks for sharing!

  7. Anne Ong on May 30, 2018 at 10:54 pm

    This is really cool and romantic ? . Different marriage customs and traditions. Very informative and educational. Thank you Rinpocbe and Sharon for this nice write up!???

  8. Jacinta Goh on May 24, 2018 at 4:30 pm

    This is neat. There are many details in it and yet many more to discover since we have so many “kaum” and different religion. As I read along, I noticed these:
    1. In Chinese Buddhist wedding, shouldn’t they have tea ceremony at the bride’s place first? But nowadays, some opted to do it during dinner reception.
    2. For Hindu wedding, (just a personal feeling) I find it more spiritual than the others.
    3. For the the Baba Nyonya, they have so many customs! No wonder can take up to 12 days ?. Perhaps I always mix with the Hokkiens and hence the names are very familiar to me.
    4. The Melaka Chetti wedding is the union between Malay and Indian?
    5. The orang asli is the simplest if they didn’t have any customs to follow whereby through “sleeping together” they are considered as couple.
    6. Is Kadazan considered Chinese? I saw you’ve mentioned Chinese jars and giving pig when going back to visit the bride’s parents after marriage. Besides, giving 15 buffaloes is extensive although you’ve mentioned that all others can be replaced by giving cash but then at least 2 buffaloes must be given. I guess, this says a lot of their culture and their way of life very much related to fields still.

    I wonder if the list can be added on with the Sikh? since I’ve read a little bit about them lately. Anyway, really thank you for this as I’ve learnt more. Thanks Sharon.

    • Sharon Ong on May 24, 2018 at 10:32 pm

      Hi, Jacinta

      Thank you for your good questions. Here are the replies to your questions.
      1. Chinese weddings have quite a number of variations that can differ from state to state, and also the clan they belong to ie Hokkien, Hakka, Cantonese etc. Traditionally, the tea ceremony was to take place at the groom’s house first, as the bride is marrying into his family and has to pay her respects to her in-laws first. After tea ceremony at the groom’s, then only the couple returns to her house to pour tea to her parents. But these days, modern couples make it easier and more practical by doing everything at the bride’s place first before going back to the groom’s house.

      2. Yes. I agree with you. A Hindu wedding is very spiritual and colourful. Each ceremony has a rich symbolic meaning.

      3. You are right. The traditional Baba wedding does have many many elaborate customs and “procedures”. The Baba language, especially the one spoken by Penang Babas, have many borrowed words from Hokkien.

      4. The Melaka Chetty is actually the Indian version of the Baba Nyonya. This community was born when the Indian traders landed in Melaka and married the local Malays during the Malacca Sultanate era. This unique culture is a beautiful fusion of the Indian and Malay culture. You can see Malay influences in the way they dress, speak and their cuisine. The Indian/Hindu influences can be observed through the various religious celebrations and customs.

      5. I find the Orang Asli wedding one of the most unique as it truly reflects their basic lifestyle and the true meaning of a marriage.

      6. The Kadazans are the indigenous people of Sabah. They are not Chinese, but many have married Chinese and they are known as Sino-Kadazan. They were traditionally farmers and this is also reflected in their customs and celebrations such as Tadau Kaamatan or Harvest Festival. Those days, pigs and buffaloes were prized possessions and deemed suitable as dowry. However, for the modern couple, they might not be farmers any more and having too many farm animals as dowry may not be logistically feasible for their wedding.

      Thank you for your questions and hope that my answers have helped. Perhaps you could briefly share with us a bit on the uniqueness of a Sikh wedding. 🙂

  9. Stella Cheang on May 16, 2018 at 9:44 pm

    Thank you, Sharon, for this sharing. Malaysia is a multiracial country, we get to enjoy and participate in wedding celebrations of another race and faith through invitation or through being the bride, groom or part of the family. By virtue of my circle of friends, I had attended Malay, Chinese,Indian and the not so traditional “white”weddings. I hope I get to attend weddings of the other traditions too. Being presence to send well wishes to couples who are committed to continue the rest of their life together is, after all, a joyous experience.

  10. Samfoonheei on May 14, 2018 at 12:45 pm

    Wow …….interesting and details post of most of the wedding from different faith and religions. Its good to know some knowledge as we live in a multi – racial country. I have only witnessed a Malay, Indian and Chinese wedding ,hence to know the rest is interesting and knowledgeable especially about their customs and so forth.. Kadazan , Orang Asli and iban weddings sounds interesting. The bride and groom in their traditional dress looks beautiful . Each ethnics wedding differ from each faths and reliligion. Having unique customary way to solemnise ,celebrabe it and so forth. In all the weddings all brides and groms always wear the best they could as its a once a life occasion.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Sharon Ong for this sharing

  11. Datuk May on May 12, 2018 at 3:02 pm

    As a Malaysian, I had always know that there are specific customs for weddings in accordance to religion, race and traditional culture & practices. However never did I understand the reasons for these customs and practices.

    What an interesting article with well researched information for the reader.

    Thank you, Sharon for your contribution to Tsemrinpoche.com, a cyber encyclopaedia with articles of diverse interests for all.

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    Thank you Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/art-architecture/seven-wonders-of-the-buddhist-world.html
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    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/kyabje-zong-rinpoche-explains-on-many-rare-and-precious-teachings-with-translation.html
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    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/comparisons-of-the-dorje-shugden-ban-with-historic-persecutions.html
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    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/making-water-offerings-to-the-buddhas.html
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    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/the-white-temple-in-thailand.html
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    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/the-power-of-sak-yant.html
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    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/jojo-struys-goes-shopping-at-kechara-paradise.html
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    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:18 PM
    n their theoretical model, rudeness has this impact on our ability to think because it engenders negative sadness, anger. Researchers have found that common negative behaviours can spread easily and have significant consequences. The best way to avoid rude people is to meet their acts of rudeness with kindness. Exposure to neurotoxins in society is not new. Children today are raised in an environment that is much different from those days. Nowadays they are exposed to behaviours, profane language, hostilities and stress from which we adults, raised a generation ago. Studies have shown that children exposed to serious psychological trauma during childhood are at risk of suffering increased psychiatric disorders. Interesting read.
    Thank you Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/rudeness-is-a-neurotoxin.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:15 PM
    Revisit this blog again . Reading comments in this blog Rich people have substantial assets and income, providing a sense of security and freedom from financial worries. Owning high-end cars, designer clothing and everything they want with their money. Rich people often have more time for leisure, hobbies, and travel, allowing them to pursue interests and experiences. They may live in large, luxurious homes and have or apartments, often in desirable locations and having personalized services. The fundamental difference in mindset between the rich and the poor is, the rich have understood a very simple principle money makes money. Rich people see money as an opportunity, while poor people see it as something to be earned. Poor people work hard for their money. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has. Not he who has much is rich, but he who gives much. The primary difference between rich people and poor people is how they handle their wealth. My thought been rich in this world it is not what we take up, but what we give up, that makes us rich.
    Thank you for sharing Rinpoche.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/rich-people.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:13 PM
    Found this old post …disturbing. Having a name especially a Bar linked to Buddha to be disrespectful towards Buddhism. After much controversy the owner had it removed. The Buddha Bar located in Sabah by a young owner which opened without much thought had many people complaining. Later was forced to have its controversial name changed to ‘Peacock Garden’ and had apologised for the controversial name. As a devout Buddhist, the name ‘Buddha Bar’ which serves alcohol, is disrespectful to the revered Buddha.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/buddha-bar.html
  • SamFoonHeei
    Tuesday, Mar 25. 2025 03:12 PM
    Siberia, considered the heartland of shamanism inhabited by many different ethnic groups, and many of its peoples observe shamanistic. Many of the indigenous communities reclaiming their traditional spiritual and healing practices . Interesting. Siberian shamanism is often called Tengerism, involves various rituals, including drumming, chanting, trance states, and offerings to nature spirits and ancestors. This religious practice has deep roots in Siberia and Central Asia in recent years with roots in the Turkic and Mongolic cultures. Many who have been live in a remote part of Russia, have preserved their shamanic traditions due to their isolation. Many customs of Tengrism are still been practiced where they emphasizes a deep respect for nature and its various spirits, including those of the earth, water, and mountains. They do believe in the continued existence of souls and the importance of honouring their ancestors.
    Thank you Rinpoche sharing this ancient religion.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/interesting-siberia.html

1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · »

Messages from Rinpoche

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Concept: Tsem Rinpoche
Technical: Lew Kwan Leng, Justin Ripley, Yong Swee Keong
Design: Justin Ripley, Cynthia Lee
Content: Tsem Rinpoche, Justin Ripley, Pastor Shin Tan, Sarah Yap
Admin: Pastor Loh Seng Piow, Beng Kooi

I must thank my dharma blog team who are great assets to me, Kechara and growth of dharma in this wonderful region. I am honoured and thrilled to work with them. I really am. Maybe I don't say it enough to them, but I am saying it now. I APPRECIATE THESE GUYS VERY MUCH!

Tsem Rinpoche

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  Bigfoot, Yeti, Sasquatch

The Unknown

The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
So go pursue all the way with the unknown,
because all unknown with familiarity becomes the known.
~Tsem Rinpoche

Photos On The Go

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According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn\'t this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
5 years ago
According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden\'s blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
5 years ago
108 candles and sang (incense) offered at our Wish-Fulfilling Grotto, invoking Dorje Shugden's blessings for friends, sponsors and supporters, wonderful!
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
5 years ago
Dharmapalas are not exclusive to Tibetan culture and their practice is widespread throughout the Buddhist world - https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=193645
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat\'s doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
5 years ago
One of our adorable Kechara Forest Retreat's doggies, Tara, happy and safe, and enjoying herself in front of Wisdom Hall which has been decorated for Chinese New Year
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
5 years ago
Fragrant organic Thai basil harvested from our very own Kechara Forest Retreat farm!
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
5 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
5 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
5 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
5 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
5 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
6 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
6 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
6 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
6 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
6 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
6 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
6 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
6 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
6 years ago
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
6 years ago
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
Sacred Vajra Yogini
6 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
6 years ago
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
6 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
6 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
6 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
6 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
6 years ago
This is pretty amazing! First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche

Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
6 years ago
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can\'t stop thinking of you and I can\'t forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
6 years ago
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can't stop thinking of you and I can't forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
6 years ago
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
6 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
6 years ago
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
6 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
6 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
6 years ago
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
DON\'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
6 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
6 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
6 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
6 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
6 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
6 years ago
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
6 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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Videos On The Go

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    5 years ago
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    Always be kind to animals-They deserve to live just like us.
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    6 years ago
    Cute Tara girl having a snack. She is one of Kechara Forest Retreat’s resident doggies.
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    6 years ago
    Your Next Meal!
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    6 years ago
    This is Daw
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    6 years ago
    Don’t Take My Mummy Away!
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    6 years ago
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  • What happened at Fair Oaks Farm?
    6 years ago
    What happened at Fair Oaks Farm?
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    She’s going to spend her whole life here without being able to move correctly. Like a machine. They are the slaves of the people and are viewed as a product. It’s immoral. Billions of terrestrial animals die annually. Billions. You can’t even imagine it. And all that because people don’t want to give up meat, even though there are so many alternatives. ~ Gabriel Azimov
  • Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
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    Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
  • This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
    6 years ago
    This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
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    6 years ago
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  • This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
    6 years ago
    Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
  • These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
    6 years ago
    Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
    6 years ago
    Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
  • Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
    6 years ago
    Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
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    6 years ago
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    My little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
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    Plse watch this short video and see how all sentient beings are capable of tenderness and love. We should never hurt animals nor should we eat them. Tsem Rinpoche
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    6 years ago
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    6 years ago
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    6 years ago
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CHAT PICTURES

Beautiful Gyenze Statue at Kechara Kuantan with an abundance of offerings .. Kechara Kuantan Study Group.. Sam
2 days ago
Beautiful Gyenze Statue at Kechara Kuantan with an abundance of offerings .. Kechara Kuantan Study Group.. Sam
Offerings to the Buddha during DS puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 days ago
Offerings to the Buddha during DS puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
26th April 2025, completed Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Namasangiti, led by William. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
3 days ago
26th April 2025, completed Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Namasangiti, led by William. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
27 th April cleaning of Gyenze Chapel. Kechara this afternoon.Kuantan Study group..sam
3 days ago
27 th April cleaning of Gyenze Chapel. Kechara this afternoon.Kuantan Study group..sam
Had our DORJE SHUGDEN Puja this evening .May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG. Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
6 days ago
Had our DORJE SHUGDEN Puja this evening .May HE Tsem Rinpoche swiftly return to KFR at BENTONG. Kechara Kuantan Study Group..Sam
Beautiful Lama tsongkhapa Statue at Kechara Kuantan. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
1 week ago
Beautiful Lama tsongkhapa Statue at Kechara Kuantan. Kechara Kuantan Study Group by Sam
Pastor Seng Piow led the puja team members of the Kechara Penang group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
1 week ago
Pastor Seng Piow led the puja team members of the Kechara Penang group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Completed Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. 19th April 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 week ago
Completed Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. 19th April 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
A beautiful day with blue clear sky to start off releasing fishes.Saving thousands of lives ..fishes birds and fishing baits.kechara kuantangroup Sam
1 week ago
A beautiful day with blue clear sky to start off releasing fishes.Saving thousands of lives ..fishes birds and fishing baits.kechara kuantangroup Sam
Yesterday had our weekly Swift return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara kuantan group Sam
2 weeks ago
Yesterday had our weekly Swift return Puja for HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara kuantan group Sam
Periodically, tormas will be replaced with new ones by Choong Soon Heng. The teardrop and round shape specially made and prepared by Siew Hong. Due to their efforts, our puja is complete with the necessary offerings recommended by Rinpoche. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Periodically, tormas will be replaced with new ones by Choong Soon Heng. The teardrop and round shape specially made and prepared by Siew Hong. Due to their efforts, our puja is complete with the necessary offerings recommended by Rinpoche. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Various 'kuih-muih' offered to Buddhas, generating tremendous merits for both the recipients and sponsors. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 weeks ago
Various 'kuih-muih' offered to Buddhas, generating tremendous merits for both the recipients and sponsors. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Completed Dorje Shugden @12th April, 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 weeks ago
Completed Dorje Shugden @12th April, 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Offerings were prepared before Dorje Shugden puja started on Sunday, 13th April in Kechara Ipoh Study Group centre (Kin Hoe)
2 weeks ago
Offerings were prepared before Dorje Shugden puja started on Sunday, 13th April in Kechara Ipoh Study Group centre (Kin Hoe)
Mr. Mannance Wong offered lights on behalf of all in Kechara Ipoh Study Group before the start of the puja (Kin Hoe)
2 weeks ago
Mr. Mannance Wong offered lights on behalf of all in Kechara Ipoh Study Group before the start of the puja (Kin Hoe)
Come on, Smile! A quick and easy way to make others happy instantly before we start our puja today. 5th April, 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Come on, Smile! A quick and easy way to make others happy instantly before we start our puja today. 5th April, 2025 Dorje Shugden puja at Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Today's flower offerings @5th April, 2025. Dorje Shugden weekly puja at Kechara Penang Chapel at No 49, Jalan Seang Tek. Uploaded by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Today's flower offerings @5th April, 2025. Dorje Shugden weekly puja at Kechara Penang Chapel at No 49, Jalan Seang Tek. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Here are some of the offerings to the Buddha @ 5th April, 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta
3 weeks ago
Here are some of the offerings to the Buddha @ 5th April, 2025. Uploaded by Jacinta
Mdm.Betty & Mr. Teo came very early for setting up & cleaning. Dorje Shugden puja @every Saturday 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 weeks ago
Mdm.Betty & Mr. Teo came very early for setting up & cleaning. Dorje Shugden puja @every Saturday 3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
We gathered for a group photo after the Dorje Shugden puja ~29th March 2025. Kechara Pennag Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
We gathered for a group photo after the Dorje Shugden puja ~29th March 2025. Kechara Pennag Study Group by Jacinta
Deepest and most sincere gratitude for Irene's invaluable and precious Dharma sharing. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
Deepest and most sincere gratitude for Irene's invaluable and precious Dharma sharing. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Welcome Irene Lim, most senior student of H. E. the 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche to our Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
Welcome Irene Lim, most senior student of H. E. the 25th Tsem Tulku Rinpoche to our Penang chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Offerings to Buddhas - 29th March. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
4 weeks ago
Offerings to Buddhas - 29th March. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Pastor Seng Piow came again to lead our puja & Dharma sharing. It's so precious to share Dharma, even it's a short one, uploaded by Jacinga. 22nd March 2025
1 month ago
Pastor Seng Piow came again to lead our puja & Dharma sharing. It's so precious to share Dharma, even it's a short one, uploaded by Jacinga. 22nd March 2025
20250322 - Penang members chilling out after puja. It's good to touch base with everyone. After all, we only get to see each other during weekend puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
20250322 - Penang members chilling out after puja. It's good to touch base with everyone. After all, we only get to see each other during weekend puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Puja packages taken up by 4 sponsors today - 22nd March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Puja packages taken up by 4 sponsors today - 22nd March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Focus and concentrate on chanting 'A Concert of Names of Manjushri'. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Focus and concentrate on chanting 'A Concert of Names of Manjushri'. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
15th March 2025, weekly Dorje Shugden puja completed, led by William. Appreciate those regulars who consistently attend this puja without fail. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jaciga.
1 month ago
15th March 2025, weekly Dorje Shugden puja completed, led by William. Appreciate those regulars who consistently attend this puja without fail. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jaciga.
13th March 2025 Month of Miracles we had our weekly Swift Return Pujafor HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara Kuantan group Sam Foon heei
2 months ago
13th March 2025 Month of Miracles we had our weekly Swift Return Pujafor HE Tsem Rinpoche. Kechara Kuantan group Sam Foon heei
Sharyn, one of our longest and senior Penang members led the puja today. It's always good to have different members leading puja so that all of us can learn the proper skills in performing puja, with the intention of benefiting others always. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Sharyn, one of our longest and senior Penang members led the puja today. It's always good to have different members leading puja so that all of us can learn the proper skills in performing puja, with the intention of benefiting others always. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Chanting the Names of Manjushri. This puja is performed every Saturday at Penang Chapel, Jalan Seang Tek (3pm). 8th March 2025 by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Dorje Shugden puja with recitation of Chanting the Names of Manjushri. This puja is performed every Saturday at Penang Chapel, Jalan Seang Tek (3pm). 8th March 2025 by Jacinta.
Three sponsored packages today, with merits accumulated from prayers being dedicated according to sponsors' wishes. 8th March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Three sponsored packages today, with merits accumulated from prayers being dedicated according to sponsors' wishes. 8th March 2025. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Yesterday 9 March 2025 in the month of miracles we had saved thousands of lives,...fishes .birds fishing baits, releasing them back to nature.Kechara Kuantan group Sam foon heei
2 months ago
Yesterday 9 March 2025 in the month of miracles we had saved thousands of lives,...fishes .birds fishing baits, releasing them back to nature.Kechara Kuantan group Sam foon heei
Our true nature!!! We're young, mature, fun and sometimes a bit silly bunch of Kecharians. Always giving, loving and bring benefits to others. Thanks for supporting us throughout the two-day retreat. Stay tune for more next time. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Our true nature!!! We're young, mature, fun and sometimes a bit silly bunch of Kecharians. Always giving, loving and bring benefits to others. Thanks for supporting us throughout the two-day retreat. Stay tune for more next time. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
The goody-goody side of us after the retreat. Perhaps we have reached ten Bodhisattva level! Kechara Penang Study Group DS Retreat 1st - 2nd March by Jacinta
2 months ago
The goody-goody side of us after the retreat. Perhaps we have reached ten Bodhisattva level! Kechara Penang Study Group DS Retreat 1st - 2nd March by Jacinta
Not forgetting nourishing our body with healthy food and on the first day, we got to taste delightful dessert prepared by Chien Seong, also one of our senior Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Not forgetting nourishing our body with healthy food and on the first day, we got to taste delightful dessert prepared by Chien Seong, also one of our senior Penang members. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat by Jacinta.
Tried Group-fie... But not very successful. Lol! Kechara Penang Study Group bi-annual retreat, uploaded by Jacinta
2 months ago
Tried Group-fie... But not very successful. Lol! Kechara Penang Study Group bi-annual retreat, uploaded by Jacinta
Tormas offering made by Dock Wan, one of the senior Kecharians from KL and close students of Rinpoche. Very delicate, a masterpiece! Uploaded by Jacinta
2 months ago
Tormas offering made by Dock Wan, one of the senior Kecharians from KL and close students of Rinpoche. Very delicate, a masterpiece! Uploaded by Jacinta
All together 19 retreatants, led by Pastor Seng Piow. There were few from KL and one from Indonesia. This pic was taken before the start of our retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat from 1st - 2nd March, uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
All together 19 retreatants, led by Pastor Seng Piow. There were few from KL and one from Indonesia. This pic was taken before the start of our retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group Retreat from 1st - 2nd March, uploaded by Jacinta.
Flower offerings from sponsors and retreatants. This flower arrangement was made by Sharyn, one of our Penang members. 1st - 2nd March, Kechara Penang Group Retreat. Uploaded y Jacinta
2 months ago
Flower offerings from sponsors and retreatants. This flower arrangement was made by Sharyn, one of our Penang members. 1st - 2nd March, Kechara Penang Group Retreat. Uploaded y Jacinta
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Dorje Shugden
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