Medan City Government Committed to Building an Inclusive and Harmonious Life
Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas attended the Vesak Day 2570 BE celebration themed Harmony and Co-existence, held by Yayasan Vihara Maitreya Medan at Tiara Convention Center on Sunday (10/5).
The presence of Rico Waas alongside the Chair of TP PKK Kota Medan, Airin Rico Waas, serves as a form of support from the Medan City Government towards strengthening values of tolerance and harmonious living amid societal diversity.
In addition to the Vesak Day festivities, the event was also combined with the commemoration of International Mother’s Day and the 22nd anniversary of the event organiser. The celebratory atmosphere was warm, attended by religious figures, community members, and local government representatives.
In his speech, Rico Waas emphasised the Medan City Government’s commitment to continuously maintaining an inclusive life filled with tolerance. He invited all residents to strengthen brotherhood and uphold the spirit of mutual respect amid differences in ethnicity, religion, or background.
“We live differently, with different religions, ethnicities, skin colours, and ancestries. But we hope that in Medan City, we can continue to live side by side, loving and helping one another,” said Rico Waas, quoted on Monday (11/5).
According to him, life will feel more peaceful if society can live with a spirit of mutual assistance and appreciation.
However, on the other hand, he reminded that there are still many social issues arising from envy, division, and conflicts that can damage harmony.
“Sometimes we see people quarrelling, slandering each other, even leading to wars in the world. Therefore, Vesak must be a momentum to bring peace into ourselves and our lives,” he said.
Rico Waas also affirmed that the Medan City Government is present as part of the community and is ready to walk alongside all faiths in building a city that is comfortable for all groups.
“We are brothers to all Medan City residents. The difficulties of the people are also our difficulties,” he stated.
On that occasion, Rico Waas also appreciated the consistency of the organisers who, for more than two decades, have continuously carried out religious and social activities routinely.
According to him, maintaining activities running for 22 years is not easy, as it requires commitment, steadfastness, and a strong spirit of togetherness.
“We appreciate all parties who continue to bring the spirit of goodness and virtue to the community,” he said.
At the end of his speech, Rico Waas officially opened the Vesak Day 2570 BE celebration with the hope that values of peace and tolerance continue to grow among the Medan City community.
The event was also attended by Venerable Man Sheng, Venerable Hui Xian (Huei Hsuen) from the United States, Venerable Xin Shou from Taiwan, Venerable Cueh Lien, and the Buddhist Coordinator of the North Sumatra Ministry of Religious Affairs, Sukasdi.
Additionally, Chair of Vihara Tri Amal Group Suhelen Suria, Chair of Walubi Kota Medan Arman Chandra, Chair of Dharma Wanita Persatuan Kota Medan Ismiralda Wiriya Alrahman, as well as heads of regional apparatus within the Medan City Government.