THE Padang Tembak community centre in Rifle Range has been presented the Diamond Award for the Indoor Public Space category during the MyPlace Awards 2023.
MyPlace Awards, by the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP), is dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating outstanding achievements in placemaking undertaken by both organisations and communities. These endeavours aim to enhance public spaces, fostering positive impacts and benefits for the local communities they serve.
Since was set up in 2022, the Padang Tembak community centre has benefitted both the young and old.
The centre was jointly established by the Penang government, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), and the Penang Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society.
Penang Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society commissioner Datuk Khoo Boo Leong said various community-related activities have been held.
“These initiatives encompassed a range of diverse offerings, including in-person tuition classes, digital clinics, cooking and drawing classes, yoga and balancing sessions, badminton training, and outreach programmes featuring heritage tours.
“Speaking on behalf of the Penang Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society, I extend our deepest gratitude for being honoured with the Diamond Award for our Padang Tembak community centre.
“I want to express heartfelt appreciation to all our dedicated members whose service at the community centre is infused with love and kindness, making it a meaningful endeavour that benefits the community irrespective of race or religion.
“Following the wise words of Master Cheng Yen, ‘Count me in when doing good deeds’, we wholeheartedly adopt this sentiment, committing ourselves to participating in acts of kindness and making a positive impact wherever we can.
“Your commitment has truly made a positive impact, and we are thankful for the collective effort that has brought about this recognition,” Khoo said after receiving the award during the MIP MyPLACE Awards Dinner 2023 at Le Meridien Hotel, Petaling Jaya, on Dec 1.
Khoo also extended a special thanks to the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC) and MBPP for the great partnership.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix courtesy of Penang Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society