Buddhists are observing Wesak Day today, honouring the birth, enlightenment and passing of the religion's founder, Siddhartha Gautama.
Wesak Day, which is a public holiday in Malaysia, sees devotees congregating at Buddhist temples, chanting religious hymns and carrying Buddhist icons in a procession symbolising purity.
The auspicious day highlights the significance of Buddhist adherents embracing self-assurance in their faith and living in accordance with their beliefs.
Taking to social media, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar and Permaisuri Agong Raja Zarith Sofiah wished Malaysian Buddhists Happy Wesak Day, highlighting that racial harmony is the pillar of national unity.
“Happy Wesak Day to all Buddhists in this country,” the royal couple posted on Sultan Ibrahim’s Facebook.
In the federal capital, the Maha Vihara Buddhist Temple in Brickfields served as a central hub for celebrations.
According to Bernama, approximately 20 decorated car floats participated in a grand 12km procession through Little India, Pasar Seni, Jalan Raja Chulan, and Bukit Bintang.
In Selangor, a key venue for the celebration is the Fo Guang Shan Dong Zen Temple in Jenjarom, Kuala Langat, where devotees begin to gather as early as 8am.
Deputy National Unity Minister K Saraswathy said that the celebration, which typically draws around 40,000 attendees in the federal capital, strengthens and fosters a better understanding of other religious cultures within the community.
Wesak Day is commemorated by lighting joss sticks, incense and candles fashioned as lotus flowers, offering flowers and ceremonially bathing the Buddha statue. - Mkini
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