Wesak Day celebration hallmark of Malaysia’s democracy — Najib

KUALA LUMPUR: The Wesak Day celebration is also a hallmark of the nation’s democracy, in that freedom of religion is a significant factor in the cohesion of Malaysia’s creed, said Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The Prime Minister said it has become one of the focal points of the Malaysian way of life.

“Tomor row ( today) , our Buddhi st f r iends wi l l b e celebrating Wesak. A special day for Buddhists around the world to honour the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha.

“Peace, service and recognition of common humanity are not only universal values shared by Buddhist devotees, but they are also the very same shared values that bind us all together as Malaysians,” he said in his message in conjunction with Wesak Day, which will be celebrated today.

Najib noted that it is also a day on which special efforts are made to bring happiness to others, especially the disadvantaged.

“That we care for the sick, feed the hungry and welcome the stranger no matter where they come from. That we should treat others as we would want to be treated.

“We must uphold these important values because if we stay together and help each other, we will build a stronger and better Malaysia for all of us,” he added.

Najib pointed out that Wesak Day gives an oppor tunity to commemorate the many contributions of Buddhists to the nation’s progress and to recommit everyone to building a brighter future for al l communities, cultures, and religions.

“Happy Wesak Day! ,” he wished.

Wesak Day i s celebrated by Buddhists to mark three momentous events in Gauthama Buddha’’ s li fe — his birth, enlightenment, and his departure from the human world. — Bernama