![The formation of the Chinese characters “弘法利生” (spreading the Dharma and benefiting all beings) and “五毛钱可救人” (50 cents can save lives) exemplified the steadfast mission of Tzu Chi volunteers. [Photo by Boon Wui Kong]](/images/Articles/RW/2024/KL20240512_wwg01_013.jpg "The formation of the Chinese characters “弘法利生” (spreading the Dharma and benefiting all beings) and “五毛钱可救人” (50 cents can save lives) exemplified the steadfast mission of Tzu Chi volunteers. [Photo by Boon Wui Kong]")
On May 12, 2024, thousands of people converged at the KL Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall for the 3-in-1 celebration of Buddha Day, Mother’s Day, and Tzu Chi Day. The Buddha’s teachings echoed through the hearts, reminding everyone of the interconnectedness of all beings and the spirit of compassion.
The sun broke through the clouds, casting a warm glow over Jing Si Hall. The air hummed with reverence as thousands of people, including Dharma Masters, the Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, and diplomats from Taiwan, Hungary, Romania, Croatia, and Nepal, gathered for the auspicious occasion.
Accompanied by the resonant chanting of Buddhist hymns and Buddha’s name, 73 Dharma Masters led the congregation in the ritual of bathing the Buddha, symbolically cleansing the hearts and minds of impurities while commemorating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing.
From a bird’s-eye view, the magnificent formation of over 3,300 participants displayed the Chinese characters “弘法利生” (spreading the Dharma and benefitting all beings) and “五毛钱可救人” (50 cents can save lives), exemplifying the volunteers’ steadfast mission to propagate the Dharma and inspire love and kindness for the benefit of all beings. In this sacred space, barriers dissolved—whether religious, cultural, or linguistic. The message transcended boundaries: compassion knows no limits.
Venerable Ming Ji, Chairman of the Malaysian Buddhist Association (KL/Selangor Branch) has participated in Tzu Chi’s Buddha Bathing Ceremony for many years. He emphasised that living a Buddhist life involves purifying one’s body, speech, and mind in everyday life. He encourages a vegetarian lifestyle, stating, “Natural disasters and climate change are closely related. Adopting a vegetarian diet to save the Earth makes sense. Besides safeguarding lives, it also protects the environment and our health. Everyone should actively advocate and practise it.”
Archbishop Julian Leow of Kuala Lumpur was moved by the oneness of hearts felt in the ceremony, where people from different backgrounds and religions united in sincere prayers. He was hopeful that people could put aside differences and be united as one humanity despite diversity.
Hungarian Ambassador, H.E. Dr. Petra Ponevács-Pana, a Christian, was delighted to celebrate Buddha Day at Jing Si Hall. Her Excellency believes that understanding other cultures and religions is crucial for harmonious coexistence.
James Buu, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia, stressed the need for more compassion in the world. “I am particularly grateful for Tzu Chi’s global efforts in disaster relief. Tzu Chi volunteers are always the first to respond in times of need. Hence, Tzu Chi Day holds significant meaning.”
Volunteer firefighter Chong Keat Voon, who participated along with 35 other members of the police force, the People’s Volunteer Corps, and Volunteer Fire Brigades, marvelled at the orderliness of the ceremony despite its scale. He felt profound peace and an unprecedented closeness to the Buddha’s teachings.
For young entrepreneur Neow Kar Ting, the experience brimmed with positive energy. “Beyond participating in a Buddha Bathing Ceremony, we should also engage in activities that contribute to society, such as adopting a vegetarian diet and conserving the environment.”
On the same day, Tzu Chi co-hosted a green carnival featuring plant-based food and eco-friendly products with Veg-Hub, providing everyone the opportunity to safeguard lives and the environment through their actions.
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This year, the grand ceremony and the 18 community Buddha bathing sessions in the Klang Valley collectively attracted over 13,000 participants. May this celebration continue to illuminate hearts, and may the spirit of the Buddha’s teachings guide us towards a brighter and more harmonious world.