Menbud Hopes Borobudur Temple Can Be A Symbol Of Religious Tolerance

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon while attending the 2025 National Vesak activity at Borobudur Temple. (ANTARA/Ho-Ministry of Culture)

JAKARTA - Borobudur Temple, as one of Indonesia's proud world cultural heritages, not only displays the splendor of the past architecture, but also emits spiritual and humanitarian values that are still relevant today.

In the celebration of the 2025 Vesak Day which took place in this temple complex, the Minister of Culture Fadli Zon emphasized the importance of Borobudur as a symbol of tolerance and harmony between religious communities in the country.

"Borobudur used to be considered a monument to death, but has now become a monument to life (viving monument) carrying a message of peace and spirituality," said Fadli Zon in his official statement, as quoted by ANTARA.

The theme of this year's Vesak celebration, namely Improve Self- Control and Wisdom in Realizing World Peace, is in line with an in-depth message from the existence of Borobudur.

Menbud hopes that the theme can inspire people to reflect and strengthen determination in creating true peace in the midst of a world that is still hit by conflict.

This theme is considered very relevant, given the current global situation which is widely colored by conflict and war, which has a root on hatred and has a broad impact on the suffering of mankind. In this context, the noble value of Borobudur is expected to be able to make a positive contribution to the nation and the world.

Fadli Zon added that Borobudur is not just a tourist destination or historical site, but has great potential as a center for internationally recognized spiritual pilgrimage. "This condition must be a place open to anyone, not just Buddhists because the universal values it contains touch all mankind," he said.

He also emphasized his commitment to continue to appoint Borobudur as a place that brings inner peace, inspiration, and enlightenment to visitors from various backgrounds.

On the same occasion, the General Chairperson of the WALUBI DPP as well as the Chairman of the National Vesak Committee, Dra. S. Hartati Murdaya, expressed his support for the vision of the Minister of Culture. He stated that WALUBI will continue to encourage the use of Borobudur Temple as a symbol of peace and human love.

"Through the spirit of love and concern, we can all become a source of light for others and participate in forming a more peaceful world," Hartati said in her closing.