MUNI holds grand prayer for peace in Indonesia and the world
Magelang - The Indonesian Tantric Buddhist Assembly (MUNI) held a grand prayer for the peace of Indonesia and the world at Borobudur Temple, seeking tranquillity, safety, and prosperity for all citizens.
Lama Rama Santoso Liem, chairman of MUNI’s Nyingma Tantric Buddhist Association, said on Thursday in Magelang that this year’s event had special elements. In addition to praying for global peace, MUNI specifically included special prayers for the welfare of Indonesian society.
“This year, beyond regular prayers, we added special prayers for the welfare of the Indonesian people. We pray for all citizens of Indonesia to remain in peace and prosperity,” he said.
The pre-Waisak 2026 events began on the first day with the Nyingma Monlam Indonesia ceremony. On Friday evening (29 May), participants performed the Larung Pelita Purnama Siddhi ritual along the Progo River, followed on Saturday morning (30 May) by the ‘Merti Karuna Bumi’ initiative, which blends Buddhist teachings with Javanese local customs.
“We collaborated and integrated Buddhist teachings with Javanese traditions. Through Merti Karuna Bumi, we encourage all Buddhists to care for the environment. This concern must begin at the smallest level—oneself, family, community—before extending prayers for the wider world,” he said.
The committee initially planned for 500 to 700 participants from both domestic and international attendees. However, current global geopolitical tensions, particularly conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, affected foreign delegations’ attendance.
“Due to unfeasible international flight arrangements, dozens of overseas participants had to cancel their trips despite registering and confirming attendance,” he added.
Nevertheless, around 400 Buddhists attended the event. International delegates came from Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, China, and European nations such as Portugal, France, and Bulgaria, as well as Australia. Domestically, participants hailed from various Indonesian regions including Medan, Pekanbaru, Jambi, Bali, Java, and Sulawesi.
Although organised by the Vajrayana Tantric Sangha, the committee also invited other Buddhist assemblies to foster unity.