Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Appreciates IWFP for Realising Values of Tolerance

Buleleng, Bali (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Muhammad Syafi’i, has expressed appreciation for the implementation of the Indonesia Walk For Peace (IWFP), a cross-regional walking movement by Bhikkus that serves as a concrete manifestation of religious tolerance values.

“All religious teachings instruct how humans can control their base desires, spread peace, and build a harmonious life. These values have actually been alive in the Archipelago for hundreds of years,” said Muhammad Syafi’i, quoted from a statement in Buleleng, Bali, on Saturday.

He explained that the current religious harmony has emerged from the proper implementation of religious teachings by the community.

The government, he said, is present to strengthen and maintain that tolerance so it remains preserved amid the dynamics of national and state life.

“We see that this journey has received support from regional heads with different religious backgrounds. This serves as proof that all religions teach peace, brotherhood, and compassion,” added Syafi’i.

Meanwhile, Bali Governor I Wayan Koster stated that the IWFP is not merely a religious ritual but also a symbol of peace radiated from the Island of the Gods to the wider community, including the international world.

According to him, the spirit of this peaceful journey aligns with the vision of “Nangun Sat Kerthi Loka Bali,” which emphasises efforts to preserve the sanctity and harmony of Bali’s nature and all its contents. Values of tolerance and peace are seen as important foundations in maintaining societal harmony.

“May this activity, carried out with noble and pure intentions, truly become a source of inspiration for us all to live in tolerance and peace,” he added.

The Indonesia Walk For Peace (IWFP) is a cross-regional walking movement carrying messages of peace, brotherhood, and harmony in Indonesia’s diversity, held in commemoration of Vesak Day.

This journey by the Bhikkus passes through Thailand, Bali, East Java, Central Java, and ends at Borobudur Temple.

Buleleng Regency is one of the stopping points for the IWFP, where the Bhikkhus stopped and stayed overnight at Brahmavihara Arama, located in Banjar Subdistrict.