Ahead of Vesak 2026, PKB Calls for Reflection on a World Plagued by Conflict and Violence

We witness human suffering every day, wherever it may be. Especially today, the global community is not in a good state. Battles, mutual attacks, and killings are happening everywhere,” said PKB’s Deputy Chairman, Abdul Halim Iskandar, during an event on Sunday (17 May 2026).

Abdul believes that compassion seems to have disappeared from human life today. He pointed out the many acts of violence that occur every day.

“It is rare for us to see it these days. Almost every day we encounter various forms of violence: domestic violence, school violence, and community violence. Compassion seems to have vanished,” he said.

Abdul then mentioned the message from the 4th President, Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), about humanity. He emphasized that humanitarian values continue to live on in society.

“And that is what our national figure, KH Abdurrahman Wahid, Gus Dur, always said: ‘Don’t ask what your religion is, but ask what you have done for the sake of humanity’,” he said.

During the same event, PKB’s Deputy Chairman, Daniel Johan, announced that 100 scholarships would be awarded to students at Buddhi Dharma University. The scholarships will be given to students who are economically disadvantaged.

“Yes, there were 100 scholarships for students at Buddhi University because this Boen Tek Bio temple also has a campus,” said Daniel.

Furthermore, Daniel mentioned that Tangerang was chosen because of its historical connection with Gus Dur and the figures present. He also conveyed a message from PKB’s Chairman, Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin), to the community to maintain peace.

“Especially to leaders, so that they can truly uphold morality, spread goodness, and believe that peace and humanity are more important than anything else,” he added.

Other PKB politicians also attended the event, including Deputy Chairman of Commission III of the DPR from the PKB faction, Rano Alfath, and Deputy Chairman of Commission X of the DPR from the PKB faction, Lalu Hadrian Irfani. (ial/fca)