The Interfaith Harmony Gathering Programme was organized on 15th December 2024 at the Berjaya Times Square Hotel, centered around the theme “Globalisation and Religion: What's the Role of Interfaith Harmony?”

This event was crafted to foster mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation among different religious communities in an increasingly globalized world, with a special focus on the local context in Malaysia.

On behalf of the organizing committee, the Most Venerable B Sri Saranankara Nayaka Maha Thera warmly welcomed the speakers, dignitaries, and all participants to this momentous occasion. Most Venerable is also the Chairman of the IBC’s Buddha Dhamma and Inter-faith Dialogue Committee.

Most Venerable B Sri Saranankara Nayaka Maha Thera

The keynote address was delivered by His Holiness the 12th Chamgon Kenting Taisitupa, who spoke about the inherent goodness of all humanity, even if it may not always be apparent. He encouraged everyone to work harmoniously in their external actions and cultivate themselves internally based on this recognition.

His Holiness the 12th Chamgon Kenting Taisitupa

Following the keynote speech, an interfaith panel discussion featured an illustrious group of speakers, including Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar, Most Rev Archbishop Julian Leow, Prof. Dr. Suresh Govind, Dr. Charanjit Kaur, and Venerable Sing Kan. The discussion was skillfully moderated by Bro Shah Kirit bin Kakulal Govindji.

Each panelist shared insights from their respective religions and scriptures on promoting peaceful and harmonious coexistence among people of different faiths and how these teachings are relevant in today’s global context:

Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar spoke about the importance of promoting a dialogical culture in which shared values are strengthened and irreducible differences respected.

Most Rev Archbishop Julian Leow highlighted biblical quotes, including a memorable one from Matthew 5:9: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."

Venerable Sing Kan emphasized the Buddhist practice of cultivating the Four Brahmavihāras (Immeasurables) for peaceful coexistence. They are Loving-kindness (Mettā), Compassion (Karuṇā), Sympathetic Joy (Muditā), and Equanimity (Upekkhā).

Dr. Charanjit Kaur highlighted the key principles of Sikhism, emphasizing equality, social justice, the oneness of humanity, and the importance of upholding human dignity where all individuals are treated with fairness and kindness.

Prof. Dr. Suresh Govind shared that Hinduism teaches unity and non-harm, viewing everyone as part of the divine. No one should violate others' beliefs, and harmony among all faiths is essential, emphasizing peaceful coexistence.

In the second part of the panel discussion, moderator Shah Kirit engaged the speakers in a talk show format, exploring practical steps towards achieving better interfaith harmony, particularly in Malaysia. This session was particularly well-received by the audience.

The event concluded with a short reflection and goodwill message by Most Venerable Datuk Dr Dhammaratana Nayaka Maha Thera, highlighting the themes of peace, harmony, and mutual respect. Prominent interfaith leader Dr. Amir Farid Isahak then provided closing remarks, summarizing key points and issuing a rousing call to action for promoting interfaith harmony in daily life.

The gathering ended with a heartfelt thank you speech by organizing chairperson Sis Tee Siew Seet who is also the Dhamma Secretary of IBC, introduced the event-ending Muhibbah Dance, symbolizing the intent to promote interfaith harmony in Malaysia and beyond.

Sis Tee Siew Seet