Visiting and staying in touch with other fellow believers to show our gratitude for the blessing and grace granted by God Almighty has become limited (due to the pandemic).
Magelang, C Java (ANTARA) - Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas lauded the joint commemoration of the 2022 Vesak Day held by the Indonesian Buddhist Representatives (Walubi) and the Indonesian Buddhist Association (Permabudhi) at Borobudur Temple.

"I praise all Buddhists in Indonesia that the 2022 Vesak Day service can be implemented well as a joint commitment between Walubi and Permabudhi," he stated in his remarks at the commemoration.

The event took place at Lumbini Park, Borobudur Temple Complex, Magelang District, Central Java Province, on Monday evening.

The minister expressed delight over the joint implementation of the holy day celebrations, as it demonstrated the solidity of Indonesian Buddhists.

He emphasized that Buddhists in Indonesia must be united, as the activities of Walubi and Permabudhi are in line with one another in providing the best religious service for the congregations.

"Furthermore, I thank all of the committee (of the commemoration event) and all Buddhists, who keep complying with the government's regulation by adhering to the health protocols," he remarked.

He noted that it was possible that more people would have attended the event if it were not for the limitations imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Visiting and staying in touch with other fellow believers to show our gratitude for the blessing and grace granted by God Almighty has become limited (due to the pandemic). Hence, we are grateful that in 2022, we can perform worship and hold religious celebrations directly again, although there are several provisions that must be obeyed," he remarked.

Earlier, President Joko Widodo had wished Happy 2022 Vesak Day through his official Instagram account on Monday.

He prayed that the light of happiness would always illuminate the paths of all Indonesian people.

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Translator: Heru Suyitno, Uyu Liman
Editor: Sri Haryati
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