Wesak highlights gifts of harmony, prosperity

Dhammaratana (second from right), Loke and Chai lighting the lamp.

This year marks the commemoration of Buddha’s 2,568th birthday.

To celebrate Wesak 2024, themed “Living harmoniously, thriving society”, non-profit organisation Ti-Ratana Welfare Society hosted the annual float procession at its office in Desa Petaling, Kuala Lumpur.

Founder and advisor of Ti-Ratana Datuk K. Sri Dhammaratana and Ti-Ratana president Datuk Seri Dr KK Chai, kicked off the celebrations which saw 20 decorated cars in a 6km procession that attracted hundreds of devotees.

While commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of Gautama Buddha, Dhammaratana called for unity in the nation that our forefathers grew up with.

He said Malaysia embraced a nation-building exercise based on the spirit of muhibbah where people celebrate each other’s traditions, festivals and customs, which fosters a sense of unity among the various ethnic groups.

The practice of tolerance and understanding was significant, he said, adding that he hoped love and kindness would continue for all of humanity.

Chai in his opening address emphasised that harmony was the key to opening the door of a thriving society.

He said true harmony and peace must begin from within one’s self.

“When individuals cultivate a sense of inner peace and compassion towards themselves and others, they are more inclined to respect each other,” he said.

Chai said maintaining harmony was crucial for the prosperity of this multi-racial country.

As such, fostering a peaceful and harmonious society is a social responsibility.

The guest of honour, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, announced that the school bus used by the society would now be exempt from paying road tax.

The school bus, which was repurposed from a second- hand vehicle, is used to send children from its three homes to school.

Ti-Ratana was set up in 1997 with the aim of helping Malaysians regardless of race and religion.

There are now 500 residents including children and old folk at its various homes and shelters.

Loke said his ministry would allocate RM50,000 to Ti-Ratana Welfare Society and urged the public to continue supporting the non-governmental organisation.

At the event, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Malaysia Air Chief Marshal (Rtd) Sumangala Dias, Nepal Ambassador to Malaysia Dilli Raj Poudel and other invited guests witnessed the distribution of 60 school bags to needy children from SJK (C) Salak South, SK Desa Petaling and PPR Salak South.