By Herald Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR – Venerable Datuk K. Sri Dhammaratana, the Buddhist chief high priest of Malaysia, has called for increased interfaith activities to promote unity and harmony within the country.
Speaking at the Malaysia National Wesak Hi-Tea 2024 gathering at the Buddhist Maha Vihara Temple in Brickfields on May 19, Sri Dhammaratana emphasised the importance of interfaith gatherings at various houses of worship.
He urged society to normalise such events as part of a concerted effort to “replant the seeds of unity among the younger generation.” Sri Dhammaratana stressed that establishing a solid foundation for unity and harmony requires more than dialogue sessions and meetings, advocating for activities that go beyond mere discussions and meals.
“I call upon all our brothers and sisters to come together once in a while, whether at mosques, neighbourhoods, churches, or Hindu temples, to engage in meaningful discussions on how to strengthen our relationships for the long term,” he said. “By generating ideas that we can put into practice, we can educate the next generation and ensure a sustainable future.”
The high tea gathering marked the first grand open house event at the temple since the pandemic, symbolising unity and a strong sense of family not limited to the Buddhist community alone.
The event also saw the attendance of Deputy National Unity Minister Saraswathy Kandasami and leaders and representatives from various religious groups in Malaysia, including Most Rev Julian Leow, Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur.
Sri Dhammaratana highlighted the important role of these practices in initiating change, especially as the older generation fades away. “We must make a concerted effort to replant the seeds of unity before we leave this world, ensuring that our legacy endures for future generations. In our pursuit of peace and harmony, we must organise well-planned activities that contribute to the development of a healthy and prosperous society.”
In a recent discussion with Archbishop Julian, Sri Dhammaratana mentioned that they are considering a visit to Pope Francis in Singapore during his upcoming trip to Asia to rekindle relationships post-COVID-19, emphasising the importance of nurturing relationships with all individuals.
Archbishop Julian echoed these sentiments, stating, “Besides the warmth of being together as Malaysians of all races and religions, we are also one with Buddhists of many nations celebrating this auspicious Wesak Day. There is so much more we can achieve together for humanity, in areas of ecology, justice, peace, and harmony if we concentrate on what unites rather than what divides us.”
Deputy Minister Saraswathy called on Malaysians to “protect our cause,” emphasising the importance of unity and tolerance. “The voice of unity in Malaysia reverberates heavily with respect and tolerance. Malaysians in general are peaceful people. We are gentle with one another. We must protect our cause. We Malaysians have lived together for so long in harmony, where a variety of colours, voices, and human stories have come together in the epic rhythm of togetherness. Unity in Malaysia tears apart the curtain of misunderstanding, revealing that despite our differences, we are in an irreplaceable symphony on the stage of life.”
She also highlighted her recent visits to a Hindu temple and a mosque in Penang, followed by the Buddhist temple event in Kuala Lumpur, underscoring the importance of fostering harmony among various religious communities. “These visits align with our objectives to enhance national unity and integration, guided by the principles of the Malaysian Constitution and the Rukun Negara,” she said. – Herald Malaysia
