“I would like to quote a Buddhist teaching that is very relevant to our national spirit: ‘How delightful it is to live in harmony, united without enmity among hostile people’ (Dhammapada verse 197),” Minister Umar said during the opening of the 4th Pasamuan Agung Conference here on Saturday.
He noted that the verse conveys crucial values of tolerance and non-violence. Maintaining harmony in Indonesia’s diverse society is a necessity, not a choice, he added.
“In Indonesia’s plural society, harmony among religious communities and within each faith is not optional. It is a must,” Umar stressed.
The minister called on Walubi, All-Indonesia Federation of Buddhist Organizations, to lead in fostering genuine harmony grounded in mutual respect and understanding.
“Walubi must continue to be a pioneer in realizing true harmony based on mutual respect and understanding of differences. Be a lantern that illuminates the path,” he said.
Walubi Chairperson Hartati Murdaya said the Pasamuan Agung Conference serves as a vital platform to strengthen solidarity and the contribution of the Buddhist community to the nation.
“This gathering is not just a forum for discussion but a moment to reaffirm the Buddhist community’s commitment to building a peaceful, progressive, and civilized Indonesia,” Murdaya said.
She also reminded all Walubi members to uphold both Dharma Agama, or religious duty, and Dharma Negara, national duty.
“The Dharma Agama followed by each member should be respected as a basic right, while Dharma Negara represents the Buddhist community’s service to society, the nation, and the state, fostering awareness of civic and national responsibility,” she said.
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Translator: Anita, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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