Waisak Celebrations at Wihara Ekayana Arama in West Jakarta

At Wihara Ekayana Arama in West Jakarta, the celebration of Waisak 2570 BE took place today, with the temple filled with Buddhist devotees. Detikcom observed at the scene on Sunday, 31 May 2026, that Waisak participants engaged in the ceremonies solemnly, with volunteers performing merit transfer and expressions of gratitude.

Febrian, a member of the Waisak Committee Board of Trustees, stated: “The act of transferring merit and expressing gratitude because all committee members were given the opportunity to serve others today. So we have gathered to celebrate and be thankful for the chance to serve from morning until evening.”

He explained that the day began at 7:15 AM with the pindapata procession, followed by the Waisak puja bakti ceremony from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, where the Waisak message was delivered by Bhante Dharmavimala Mahathera, deputy head and founder of Wihara Ekayana Arama. Over 10,000 Buddhists attended the puja bakti or commemorated Tri Suci Waisak Day at the temple.

The celebration continued with the ‘Waisak moment’ ceremony around 3:45 PM, during which attendees observed silence to reflect on Buddhist teachings. “Everyone remains calm and quiet, reflecting on Buddhist teachings or dharma to become more mindful. This moment of silence allows for meditation,” he added.

Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar, Jakarta Metropolitan Police Chief Commissioner General Asep Edi Suheri, and Jakarta Military Region Commander Lieutenant General Deddy Suryadi attended the event. Febrian noted that the Minister expressed his appreciation for the Buddhist community, stating: “The Minister of Religion expressed his joy at the large turnout of Buddhists, noting that Buddhist teachings emphasize mindfulness. This self-awareness allows individuals to make peace with themselves, which in turn brings peace to society and the nation.”

The Police Chief shared a humanitarian message: “Noble love does not measure worthiness; it simply shines, just as light does not choose what it illuminates.” This message of peace and humanity encourages us to continually learn to be joyful, loving, and a beacon for all.

The Military Commander’s message was: “Harmony is achieved when every light, with its unique radiance, willingly illuminates the same path.”