Madiun Regent urges stronger tolerance through Indonesia Walk for Peace

“Indonesia Walk for Peace” 2026 could be an inspiration for society, especially the younger generation, to continue upholding unity and tolerance amid differences in religion, culture, and nationality. Madiun Regency, East Java — The Regent of Madiun, Hari Wuryanto, has urged the public to strengthen tolerance and harmony among followers of different religions through the “Indonesia Walk for Peace” 2026, which was attended by 57 monks from across countries during a stop in Madiun Regency, East Java. “The presence of you all is an honour for Madiun Regency and also carries a noble message about peace, tolerance, and humanity,” said Regent Hari Wuryanto as he welcomed and released the group of monks participating in the IWFP 2026 at Pendopo Ronggo Djumeno Caruban, Madiun Regency, on Friday. Hari noted that the presence of these monks is not only a physical journey but also a spiritual journey that teaches the values of simplicity, discipline, perseverance, and love for fellow humans. He stated that the Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026 could be an inspiration for the public, especially the younger generation, to continue upholding unity and tolerance amid differences in religion, culture, and nationality. “To realise a prosperous society, peace must be built together. Although we differ in religion, belief, and culture, we must remain united for the sake of Madiun Regency and a better Indonesia,” said Hari. A representative of Indonesian Bhikkhu in IWFP 2026, Bhante Tejapuñño Mahāthera, said the journey was joined by 57 Sangha members. Of the 57 monks, 50 participants came from abroad and seven from Indonesia. “We come from various countries, namely Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, and Malaysia. The journey started from Bali and will finish in the Borobudur area. This activity carries a message of humanity and peace,” he said. Bhante explained that the spiritual journey began in Bali since 7 May 2026; the group crossed to Banyuwangi and continued the journey crossing at least 10 regencies and cities in East Java Province. The 600-kilometre journey is scheduled to end at Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java on 28 May to participate in the culmination of Vesak Day celebrations to be held on 30 May 2026. The monks stopped in Madiun on Thursday (21/5) and Friday (22/5) morning then continued the journey towards the Vesak celebrations at Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java. Regent Hari Wuryanto of Madiun, accompanied by the Deputy Regent Purnomo Hadi, the Regional Secretary Sigit Budiarto, Forkopimda, and a representative of FKUB Madiun, directly released the group of monks to continue the journey to Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java.”