Indonesia Highlights Borobudur’s Role as Symbol of Peace and Religious Harmony

RRI.CO.ID, Magelang - Indonesia's Ministry of Culture reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Borobudur Temple as both a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations during the National Waisak 2570 BE/2026 celebrations on Sunday, 31, May 2026. The event brought together religious leaders, government officials, and thousands of worshippers at the Borobudur temple complex in Central Java.

Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, attended the National Waisak Dharmasanti gathering at Lumbini Park, Borobudur, as part of the government's support for this year's Vesak commemorations. The event carried the theme “Dharma as a Source of Morality and Wisdom” and the subtheme “Loving Kindness as a Source of World Peace.”

In a recorded Vesak message, Fadli described Waisak as one of the most significant occasions for Buddhists worldwide. He said the celebration commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha, milestones that symbolize humanity's journey from seeking truth to achieving liberation.

The minister emphasized that Borobudur represents more than an architectural monument or archaeological site. According to him, the ninth-century temple embodies a spiritual journey toward enlightenment and serves as a living symbol of Indonesia's cultural and religious heritage.

“As Minister of Culture, I want to reaffirm our commitment to Borobudur as one of the world's greatest cultural heritage sites and, at the same time, a sacred place for millions of Buddhists. Preserving Borobudur means preserving the memory of civilization, and we remain committed to doing so for future generations,” Fadli said.

National Waisak Committee Chair Hartati Murdaya expressed appreciation for the government's support in facilitating Buddhist religious activities at Borobudur. She also highlighted ongoing cooperation in preserving the historic Muaro Jambi temple complex, once a major center of Buddhist learning during the Srivijaya era.

Indonesian Vice President, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, praised the Buddhist community for its contribution to social harmony, humanitarian initiatives, education, healthcare, and community empowerment programs. He said the annual Vesak celebration at Borobudur has become not only a religious observance but also a powerful symbol of Indonesia's diversity and national unity.

The celebration concluded with a drone light show depicting stories from the life of the Buddha and the release of peace lanterns over the Borobudur complex. Organizers said the lantern ritual symbolizes the letting go of negative traits and expresses hopes for peace, compassion, and enlightenment for all living beings.