DPR Speaker: Waisak Momentum Reflects On The Importance Of Maintaining Harmony

JAKARTA - The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, said that the Vesak 2566 Buddhist Era (BE) celebration is a momentum to reflect on the importance of helping each other and maintaining harmony.

"Broadly speaking, this year's Vesak reminds us all to do more and to continue to maintain and maintain harmony or moderation among religious believers," said Puan in a written statement quoted by Antara, Monday, May 16.

Puan conveyed a happy Vesak celebration to all Buddhists in Indonesia.

The former Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture invited Buddhists in the country to build the noble values of the nation as well as reflect back on the teachings of Sidharta Buddha Gautama.

Puan said the teachings of Siddhartha Buddha Gautama, which contained universal values, a deep philosophy of life, and enlightenment about the nature and meaning of true Buddhist life, were in line with the Vesak theme 2566 BE "Moderation for a Happy Indonesia".

The universal values of the Buddha's Dharma, according to Puan, are important in building a sovereign, independent, and personable nation.

"I invite my Buddhist brothers and sisters to always reflect on what the Buddha has said and spread kindness to others," said Puan.

The chairman of the PDI-P DPP said that this year's Vesak celebration was still in the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

Therefore, the Buddha's teaching to help each other in this difficult time is very relevant.

"Buddhist education with the aim of social justice and world peace is a commitment that Buddhists want to form," said Puan.

Quoting the speech of the first president of the Republic of Indonesia Soekarno, Puan also invited Buddhists and all people to believe in god culturally, namely without "religious selfishness". Indonesia should be one god country.

"Let us practice and live religious life in a civilized way, namely with respect for one another," said Puan.

He invited all Buddhists in the country to use the Vesak 2566 BE commemoration as a momentum in building the nation's noble values to maintain the spirit of Sutasoma, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, and Hana Darma Mangrwa.

"Happy Trisuci Vesak. May all beings always live in peace, serenity, and happiness," said Bung Karno's grandson.