Indonesian Buddhists in East Kalimantan prayed for the smooth development of Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara, and for a seamless transfer of the capital on this year’s Vesak Day.
According to Samarinda Buddhist Centre head Pandita Hendri Suwito, Nusantara City will serve as the nation’s symbol of great civilization, which all Indonesians should support.
“In the end, we will see Indonesia becoming a great, sovereign, and respectable nation,” Suwito stated on Monday.
Spiritually, the pandita called for Buddhists to maintain self-control, as well as a peaceful and healthy spiritual life. Wisdom is important to deepen one's understanding of life beyond just acquiring knowledge.
“This year’s Vesak Day focuses on increasing self-control and wisdom to realize world peace,” he stated.
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He explained that wisdom nurtures compassion, forgiveness, and love, which will be the foundation of peace. “From there, a real peace will come true,” Suwito added.
Vesak Day activities in Samarinda on Monday were dominated by social and spiritual activities, with its highlight scheduled to take place at the Samarinda Buddhist Centre at 7 p.m. local time.
This year's national Vesak Day commemoration is centered at the Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java. The commemoration there is marked by a procession from Mendut Temple to Borobudur and concludes with pradaksina, the ritual of circumambulating the temple for spiritual contemplation.
President Prabowo Subianto expressed hope that this year's Vesak Day would "bring the spirit of calmness, wisdom, and compassion" to all Indonesian Buddhists.
On his presidential Instagram handle @presidenrepublikindonesia, Prabowo encouraged the people to strengthen brotherhood and promote peace in national life through compassion and sincerity.
Related news: Nusantara's government office zone scheduled for June 2025 completion
Translator: Ahmad Rifandi, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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