A CHARITY banquet dinner in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur, brought together guests and well-wishers who support the development of a new Buddhist centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Malaysia deputy abbess Venerable Ru Xing emphasised that building a temple was collectively creating a future for the propagation of the teaching.
FGS is a major international Chinese Mahayana Buddhist monastic order and charity organisation.
“A temple is made possible by the contributions of many; a Buddhist centre comes together through the convergence of many causes and conditions,” Ru said in a statement.
A highlight at the event was the stage production “60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honouring a 100-Year Legacy”, which portrayed the development and legacy of FGS and the spirit of Buddhism.
Ru said the production represented the continuation of light and the belief that every individual could play a part in passing on kindness, hope and positive values.
Organising committee chairman Tey Hwee Len said that what the community was supporting was not merely the work of Dharma teachers or the contributions of volunteers, but the realisation of a shared vision to create a society with greater compassion, understanding and wisdom.
She said FGS Malaysia had, over the years, engaged people of different generations through community education programmes, Buddhist practice sessions, activities for children and youth, volunteer services and other initiatives.
She expressed her gratitude to all guests, devotees, donors, sponsors, organising committee members and volunteers who participated and supported the development of the new Buddhist centre.
Tey said that an ideal society could be built through the participation of every individual.
She also encouraged everyone to continue taking “one step at a time”, carrying out each task with sincerity and perseverance so that the shared vision could continue to grow.
Also present were Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lim Yi Wei, Selangor MCA deputy chairman Tan Kim Chuan, and Buddhist community representatives.
The evening concluded with prayers, blessings and Dharma teachings led by Ru and Venerable Jue Cheng.
