YBAM Penang SLC Introduction

Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM) Penang State Liaison Committee (Penang SLC) has, since its establishment in the 1970s, been entrusted with the responsibility of connecting member organisations across Penang while actively promoting the growth and development of Buddhist youths. When the YBAM Headquarters moved to Kuala Lumpur in 1996, the role and responsibilities of Penang SLC became even more significant, serving as a vital bridge between local Buddhist youth organisations and the National Council of YBAM to ensure that YBAM’s visions and initiatives are effectively implemented in Penang.

In recent years, Penang SLC’s activities have been closely aligned with YBAM’s Six-Year Plan, addressing the evolving needs of society and the Buddhist community. At present, Penang SLC focuses on four key areas: Dharma Propagation, Adolescent Affairs, Buddhist Undergraduate Coordination and Education & Trainee Teachers:

● Dharma Propagation: Conducting Dharma based activities relevant to modern society, including “Dharma Dew” Dharma Talk Series, Dhamma courses, public talks, community propagation, and holistic personal development programmes.

● Adolescent Affairs: Organising the “Step Out, Get Moving” Buddhist Camp for secondary students, reaching out to teenagers in the community, and encouraging their continued participation in member organisations.

● Buddhist Undergraduate Coordination: Maintaining active engagement with various higher learning institutions in Penang, encouraging undergraduates to serve in the Buddhist community, and nurturing future leaders.

● Education & Trainee Teachers: Strengthening Sunday Dhamma Class teaching resources through teacher training programmes and picture book camps, while attracting trainee teachers to contribute to Buddhist education.

Penang SLC has secured a piece of land from the Penang State Government to be developed as a religious site and has established a Building Committee to spearhead the construction of its Administration and Activity Centre. This centre aims to serve as a hub for Buddhist youths in Penang, providing a conducive space for learning, collaboration, and personal growth.

Penang SLC remains committed to uniting Buddhist youths and the wider community in nurturing a new generation of responsible, capable and compassionate Buddhists, guided by the spirit of “Together, We Build a Home”.