FIRST of all, I sincerely wish all Buddhist friends Happy Wesak Day. As we commemorate the 60th anniversary of Wesak Day as national public holiday, I hope the development of Buddhism in Malaysia will grow stronger.
After two years of restrictions, we can finally gather at temples for Wesak prayers and events. It is a time for joyous celebration as well as for deep reflection.
The journey battling COVID-19 over the last two years has been tough and a bitter experience. However, to witness various NGOs and self-organised individuals stepping forward and extending help to fellow Malaysians in need – driven by compassion and purpose – is indeed a touching experience for me.
Buddhists groups and associations were at the forefront of serving our communities when COVID-19 raged across the country. From helping the poor with food aid, organising medical support for patients, to organising vaccination campaigns, the contributions by Buddhist’s groups are really impactful.
In December 2021, a number of cities and towns including Jelebu and Titi in Negeri Sembilan were hit by severe flood. The aftermath was so devastating that some thought of just giving up.
However, because of the army of volunteers mobilised by Buddhist groups, the daunting task of post-disaster relief and cleaning were completed in an organised manner. I was at ground zero and felt the energy and compassion by the volunteers. So, I would like to say thank you and convey my gratitude to all volunteers and organisations involved in the flood relief mission.
We are facing unprecedented challenge in climate change that calls for collective action. We have to pay more attention to vulnerable communities living in low lying areas, mostly comprising of poorer income households.
On one hand we have to cut emissions to slow warming; on the other hand, our systems and machineries for disaster alert, rescue and relief must be upgraded. On both, religious institutions play pivotal roles. Therefore, I urge the Government to work more closely with Buddhist organisations to combine forces for combating climate change.
Finally, there is much for the DAP to learn from and collaborate with Buddhists groups and organisations. We must engage each other more to work together for the common good.
Have a blessed Wesak Day.
Anthony Loke is a former transport minister and the DAP secretary general.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
