Khofifah urges strengthened brotherhood on Vesak Day
Surabaya (ANTARA) - East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has called for strengthened brotherhood during the 2570 Buddhist Era (BE) Vesak Day commemoration in 2026 as a means to preserve peace, social harmony, and cohesion at local, national, and global levels.
“Amid global challenges marked by conflict, polarisation, economic uncertainty, and humanitarian crises, Dharma teachings emphasise the importance of compassion, wisdom, self-control, and respect for others as the foundation for sustainable peace,” Khofifah said in Surabaya on Sunday.
According to Khofifah, this appeal aligns with the 2026 Vesak Day theme, ‘Dharma for World Peace’, which she deems relevant to current global needs for peaceful and harmonious living.
She stated that efforts to maintain peace must begin with each individual creating harmony within themselves, their families, communities, and society.
Khofifah noted that East Java has long been recognised for upholding tolerance, mutual assistance, and harmonious living amid ethnic, religious, cultural, and social diversity.
“Peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of mutual respect, understanding, and assistance in communal life. These are the values we must preserve and pass on to future generations,” she said.
She stressed that diversity is both a blessing and a strength of the Indonesian nation, which must be nurtured through tolerance and solidarity.
According to her, teachings of compassion and virtue are highly relevant for strengthening social cohesion and contributing tangibly to global peace efforts.
“When communities live in harmony, respect one another, and prioritise humanity, we not only safeguard peace locally but also contribute to global peace,” she added.
“Current challenges demand greater empathy, solidarity, and compassion. The spirit of Dharma must fuel the creation of peaceful, inclusive, just, and loving lives,” she said.
Khofifah also expressed appreciation to East Java’s Buddhist community for their contributions to maintaining harmony, strengthening tolerance, and active participation in social and humanitarian activities.
According to her, these contributions are vital in bolstering social harmony and ensuring East Java remains conducive, peaceful, and united.
“On behalf of the East Java Provincial Government, I extend my Vesak Day wishes to all Buddhists. May the spirit of Dharma guide us to spread love, strengthen brotherhood, and uphold global peace. Sabbe Satta Bhavantu Sukhitatta, may all beings be happy,” she concluded.