Medan: Hundreds of Buddhists held a joint prayer for peace and tolerance in Indonesia, amid rising religious tensions across the country.
Around 15,000 followers of all Buddhist sects participated in the joint prayer held at Soewondo Air Force Base.
Dozens of Buddhist monks, House of Representatives members and local officials also participated in the event on Saturday, which continued yesterday.
Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saifuddin opened the joint prayer on Friday, which was marked by the release of hundreds of doves, which symbolise peace and harmony.
“My presence in this event is not only to fulfil their invitation but the most the important thing is, I want to appreciate this very noble event,” said Lukman, adding that hopefully, more joint prayers are held by Buddhists in Indonesia.
North Sumatra Governor Erry Nuradi also appreciated the Indonesian Buddhist followers’ joint prayer, themed “For My Country, Indonesia”.
At the event, he added, all religious followers prayed for protection, with a hope that Indonesia could remain in a safe, peaceful condition so that all of its development agendas could run well. — The Jakarta Post/Asia News Network
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