Singapore Cardinal William Goh said in his message: “Our religious principles and moral responsibilities motivate us to help humanity in its search for truth and peace.” Archbishop Julian Leow of Kuala Lumpur: “May this celebration inspire us to cultivate greater understanding, kindness and harmony” within our communities”
Kuala Lumpur () – In these days when Buddhists celebrate Vesak, their most important festival, in Southeast Asia several Christian voices have sent greeting messages to experience this commemoration as an opportunity for interreligious dialogue.
The Sarawak Association of Churches (ACS) extended its best wishes to the Buddhist communities in the State and throughout Malaysia. Its president, the Anglican Bishop of Kuching, Rev. Danald Jute, wrote in his message: “In light of the numerous international conflicts, wars and disagreements, as well as the aggressions, divisions and conflicts that we face in our country, the teaching and Buddha’s message of peace, compassion and devotion in the service of humanity is something we need to hear more and more.” In a multicultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic country like Malaysia, it is essential to respect and celebrate similarities and differences. “Let us affirm “the good that is in each of us. That way we can all contribute to the construction of a more peaceful, respected and prosperous country,” added the prelate.
The Archbishop of Singapore, Card. William Goh extended his message to the Buddhist population of the city-state, wishing that “as we celebrate the birth, enlightenment and final nirvana of Gautama Buddha, his hearts may be filled with peace and joy.” “In today’s world, many pursue material wealth and relegate spiritual values and the ethical dimension to the background. As Buddhists and Christians, our religious principles and moral responsibilities motivate us to help humanity in its search for truth and peace”.
The Card. Goh said: “Constant care and attention is required to preserve trust between different religious communities in Singapore. And that’s especially important right now, when our world is experiencing increasing levels of geopolitical tension and ethnic and religious polarization. “Our communities – he added – must continue to adopt a way of life that seeks truth instead of lies, compassion instead of hatred and forgiveness instead of revenge, to ensure lasting peace and prosperity.”
In a brief message to Buddhists in Malaysia, the Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, Archbishop Julian Leow, said: “May this celebration inspire us to cultivate greater understanding, kindness and harmony within our communities. And that it also reinforces our commitment to working for reconciliation and resilience.”
Buddhists in Malaysia represent 18.7% of the total population of 34 million people, while in Singapore 31.1% of its four million inhabitants are Buddhists. It is mainly practiced by ethnic Chinese, but there are also Siamese Malays, Sri Lankan Malays and Burmese Malays who practice this religion. Vesak is a national holiday in both Singapore and Malaysia. At the temples, devotees perform colorful rituals and ceremonies, such as lighting hundreds of oil lamps that symbolize Buddha’s enlightenment.
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