Governor Khofifah Welcomes Group of Bhikkhus from Various Countries at Grahadi: Invites Participants to Make 'Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026' a Catalyst for Tolerance, Togetherness, and Harmony Among Religions for World Peace

High volatility is still likely to continue until the end of May.

High volatility is still likely to continue until the end of May.

EAST JAVA Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa welcomed 57 Bhikkhus from various countries who are undertaking the Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026 spiritual journey at the Grahadi State Building, Surabaya, Friday (15/5). This moment was used to invite all elements of society to strengthen tolerance, togetherness, and interfaith harmony as a foundation for world peace.

On this occasion, Governor Khofifah expressed her appreciation for the peace journey undertaken by the Bhikkhus as a universal message that is relevant to the current global situation.

“Welcome to East Java, the Land of Majapahit, a land that introduces Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, that we are different but we are one in realizing harmony between humans,” said Governor Khofifah.

Governor Khofifah emphasized that the values of peace and happiness brought in the Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026 are a fundamental human need that must continue to be echoed.

“I would like to invite all of us from Grahadi to continue to voice peace and happiness, Bhante just now said how important a happy life is. And that is what we need now,” she added.

It is known that the group of Bhikkhus consists of 57 people from various countries, namely Thailand (42 people), Malaysia (4 people), Laos (3 people), and Indonesia (8 people). They traveled approximately 666 kilometers on foot, with various challenges, carrying a message for world peace.

According to Khofifah, this journey is not just a geographical route, but a journey of values that connects humanity in the same spirit.

“This message is a universal message, in my opinion, this is something that must continue to be reminded to the world that peace is something that is needed by human life from any tribe, any religion, wherever they are, they need a peaceful life,” she said.

Through this momentum, Governor Khofifah called for strengthening tolerance, togetherness and interfaith harmony in East Java and Indonesia. She hopes that the Bhikkhu’s visit to the Grahadi State Building will strengthen the resonance in spreading peace.

“I think at the right time this resonance will be heard and then followed because this voice of peace is a universal voice spoken by many communities and this time 57 Bhantes convey that message, walk for peace,” she said.

Furthermore, Governor Khofifah said that this journey is more than just a journey across cities and regions, but a step to bring a message of peace that transcends national boundaries, cultures, and beliefs.

This momentum is also a very important spiritual and social space to strengthen bonds of brotherhood, strengthen religious values, and affirm harmony in community life.

“This journey is a reminder that the values of peace, humanity, and brotherhood can unite people in the midst of various differences,” she explained.

In a world that is often marked by differences and conflicts, this journey offers hope that people from various nations can be united by the values of compassion, humanity, and peace.

Every step of the Bhikkhus carries a message that peace begins with a calm heart, an attitude of mutual respect, and a willingness to walk together as fellow human beings.

“Today we are not only welcoming a group of spiritual pilgrims, but also welcoming the sincerity, steadfastness, and peaceful steps that are carried out with simplicity and sincerity,” she said.

Throughout the journey of hundreds of kilometers, the Bhikkhus met many people and children who welcomed them warmly. Although they may not understand each other’s language, smiles and sincerity become a universal language that unites them.

“That is where the true meaning of peace lies, it is simple, but able to touch the heart and bring a sense of brotherhood in the midst of diversity,” she said.

The first female governor of East Java said that the people of East Java are honored to be part of this noble journey. The presence of the Bhikkhus who bring the message of walk for peace brings coolness and also a reminder to continue to maintain harmony, tolerance, and brotherhood in the midst of the diversity of the Indonesian nation.

“We hope that the Bhikkhus can feel the warmth of the people of East Java,” she said.

On this occasion, Governor Khofifah also expressed her gratitude and highest appreciation to all parties who have supported the implementation of this activity with full dedication and togetherness.

Not only that, she also prayed that the series of journeys of the Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026 would be smooth, healthy, strong, and safe until it reaches its final destination.

“Hopefully every step taken will be a trace of goodness that brings peace to Indonesia and the world. Hopefully the togetherness today will be a warm memory in the spiritual journey of all the Bhikkhus,” she concluded.

The Head of the Bhikkhu Group, Bhante Phra Phanarin Oaksonthip, said that he was happy that on the seventh day of his journey he had arrived in Surabaya, East Java.

He was also impressed by the warm welcome from Governor Khofifah, the authorities and the community to them, differences in language were not a major obstacle.

“We are very happy because during the journey from Bali the weather was hot but when we arrived in Surabaya it felt cool because there were many trees. Thank you for the warm welcome given by the government, authorities and the community,” said Bhante Phra Phanarin. (H-2)

EAST JAVA Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa led the Harvesting and Acceleration of Planting Movement which was carried out in Gading Village, Balerejo District, Madiun, Friday (8/5) morning.

East Java’s economy grew 5.96% in the first quarter.