"We are reminded of the noble essence of Vesak Day. It not only embodies a spiritual foundation, but also serves as a moral compass that guides us to live in peace, tranquility, and boundless love. Diversity and tolerance are Indonesia's true identity and strength," she remarked in a statement on Monday.
According to her, this year's Vesak commemoration, themed "Dharma as a Source of Morals and Wisdom," invites the public to reflect, strengthen solidarity, and preserve nature to achieve a peaceful and harmonious life.
The highlight of the Vesak Day celebration took place at Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, on Sunday (May 31), featuring the release of 2,570 lanterns.
The annual celebration, organized by the Indonesian Buddhist Representative Council (WALUBI) and the Indonesian Mahanikaya Buddhist Religious Council (MBMI), was fully supported by the central and regional governments.
The Chair of the WALUBI Central Executive Board, Hartati Murdaya, expressed her appreciation to all parties who supported this year's Vesak celebration.
"This support provides great hope for the realization of a harmonious and peaceful life for our national development," she noted.
Also present at the event was Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar, who stated that Indonesia is currently enjoys a high level of harmony. According to data from his office, the national Interfaith Harmony Index (KUB) is recorded at above 76 percent.
"This figure reflects that, social cohesion and interfaith tolerance in Indonesia are in a healthy condition. This figure must be transformed into moral sovereignty," Umar remarked.
The peak of the Vesak celebration is the most sacred ritual for Buddhists and the nation's biggest annual Buddhist event. Beyond its deep spiritual meaning, it is also open to the public and tourists, attracting visitors from both home and abroad each year.
This demonstrates that spiritual, cultural, and tourism values can grow together and reinforce each other in building Indonesia’s image as a nation that values diversity.
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Translator: Fitra Ashari, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Arie Novarina
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