Hailing from Kuching in East Malaysia, Dr. Ng Heng Yan, aka Dr. Hank, has made it his life’s work to relieve the suffering of animals. After completing his degree in Veterinary Medicine at the National Taiwan University, Dr. Hank served in private clinics before working in Taiwan’s Forestry Bureau, conducting research on wildlife and indigenous people. Dr. Hank now resides in Kuala Lumpur, managing the sales and marketing department of a veterinary drug manufacturer. In Kechara, he assists in running the Chinese Manjushri class.

Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself, Dr. Hank? How were you introduced to Kechara and what attracted you to Kechara?

When I was out in 1Utama one day, I came across the Kechara Media & Publications stall and I was invited to the Chinese Manjushri class. Kechara attracted me through H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche’s DVD teachings. I was also impressed by how friendly everyone is – I would like to thank Liaisons Kok Yek Yee and Loh Seng Piow in particular, for their friendship and care.

What do you understand about spirituality? Did you have any spiritual inclinations before you came to Kechara?

I understand spirituality to be the process of attaining mental or inner satisfaction, by adjusting ourselves in order to be happy. Spirituality ensures both our physical and mental health is taken care of. Before Kechara, although I occasionally read Buddhist magazines, I wasn’t specifically looking for spirituality.

You mentioned that it was Rinpoche’s DVD teachings that attracted you to Kechara. Now that you’ve received teachings from him directly, can you tell us what you like about Rinpoche?

Rinpoche has omnipresent compassion. When it comes to helping sentient beings, everyone is the same and equally-deserving. That’s why I like him – Rinpoche does not discriminate against animals, and gives care and help to all beings. I have no doubt that Rinpoche has Bodhicitta.

And what is the most inspiring thing about Rinpoche that you have seen?

Rinpoche never gives up on anyone; regardless of how he has been treated by them, he is always concerned about their physical and mental well-being. No matter how difficult it is to teach someone, Rinpoche always has the skilful means to transform or change the other person.

Where do you see Kechara going? What do you think is in Kechara’s future?

I believe that Kechara will develop and grow to become the most influential Tibetan Buddhist centre in this region, bringing benefit to countless beings. I believe this will happen because Rinpoche always acts on what he says and supported by his dedicated students, I believe anything is possible.