Oneworld Hanxin College Students Studies Life Education From The Frontlines Of Funeral Services

In March, as the Qing Ming Festival approaches, and the atmosphere of honouring the departed becomes palpable, engaging in life education takes on special significance. Students from Oneworld Hanxin College in Kuala Lumpur who have chosen to study “Life and Death Education” begin their journey from the Xiao En Memorial Park, delving into the realm of burial practices. They gain insights into modern cemeteries, learn about epitaphs, witness the daily routines of cremation specialists, and explore eco-friendly burials practices, such as ash burials. Through participating in tomb-sweeping and ancestral worship activities, they deepen their connection to the concept of burial. Through this immersive experience, they gain insights into eco-friendly burial practices, such as sea burials and biodegradable urn burials. They also learn the symbolic meanings behind the characters for “husband” and “wife” inscribed on tombstones.

Returning to Xiao En Centre at noon, they completed a fulfilling journey of life and learned about the selfless contributions of body donors through the Silent Mentor program. They also engaged with funeral care consultants to understand funeral customs and culture, experiencing the warmth of human care through ancestral wisdom. Some of the students gave the following testimonials:

“I learned many funeral customs that I was previously unaware of.”
“The selflessness of the silent mentors had broadened my horizons.”
“I realized that life and death are truly just a thin line apart, and I appreciate depth of this symbolism.”
“I had many different new experiences, and today, I found answers to some of my previous doubts.”
“This project is very meaningful.”
“It’s not just about serving the funeral industry but more about guiding and educating.”

We are also grateful to have experienced many moments where one life influences another during the process of life education. We hope that the courage to seriously contemplate death can lead to a greater appreciation for the happiness of being alive.