RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs is preparing for the 2026 Vesak celebrations, with Minister Nasaruddin Umar meeting Bhante Sri Pannavaro Mahathera and leaders of the Sangha Theravada Indonesia to discuss major Buddhist events.

The meeting at the ministry’s office in Jakarta highlighted three key agendas: Gema Waisak 2026, Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting - Asalha Mahapuja, and the golden jubilee of the Sangha Theravada Indonesia.

Sangha Theravada Indonesia, established in 1976, is the national monastic order representing Theravada Buddhism in the country. Over the past five decades, it has played a central role in guiding Buddhist communities, organizing religious education, and fostering interfaith dialogue.

Its anniversary in 2026, known as the Tahun Kencana or Golden Year, marks half a century of contributions to Indonesia’s religious and cultural life. Minister Nasaruddin emphasized the enduring relevance of values drawn from history, including those inscribed on Emperor Ashoka’s pillars.

“One of Ashoka’s pillars carries a powerful message: respect for one’s own religion must be accompanied by respect for others. This principle is essential for building harmony in Indonesia’s plural society,” he said on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, as quoted on the ministry's official website.

He recalled his past collaboration with Bhante Pannavaro during the 2025 Tipitaka event, which he described as a strong symbol of Indonesia’s ability to foster dialogue and spiritual exchange across nations and traditions.

Minister Nasaruddin stressed that the spirit of tolerance and religious moderation must be nurtured, particularly during major religious celebrations such as Vesak. The ministry, he added, is committed to supporting events that promote peace and inclusivity.

Bhante Pannavaro echoed the minister’s remarks, noting that Ashoka’s teachings remain universally relevant. “Ashoka’s message reminds us that honoring one’s own faith must never mean demeaning another. By respecting each other, we strengthen harmony and peace,” he said.

He added that this principle aligns with Buddhist teachings of compassion, wisdom, and peaceful coexistence. “We hope Vesak 2026 will not only be a religious celebration but also a moment to reinforce peace and brotherhood across communities.”

Later the same day, the minister also met with representatives from WALUBI (the Indonesian Buddhist Council) to review preparations for the national Vesak celebrations, which will run from May 10 to June 5, 2026.

Events will include community service at heroes’ cemeteries across Indonesia, health outreach programs, the ceremonial collection of Dharma Fire in Mrapen, and sacred water from Umbul Jumprit.

The festivities will culminate at the Mendut and Borobudur temples with a lantern festival. The theme for Vesak 2570 BE/2026 is “Dharma as a Source of Morality and Wisdom” with the subtheme “Compassion as the Source of World Peace.”

Minister Nasaruddin underscored Borobudur’s significance as both a cultural heritage site and a global center of Buddhist worship. “Borobudur is not only a cultural treasure but also a place of worship for Buddhists worldwide. Vesak must be prepared carefully so it is solemn and deeply meaningful,” he said.

He added that Vesak is a strategic moment to strengthen national values and interfaith tolerance, with Dharma serving as a foundation for a peaceful and civilized society.

He called for collaboration between the government, organizers, and communities to ensure the success of Vesak 2026.

“This celebration should not only be a religious event but also a collective reflection to reinforce social harmony amid Indonesia’s diversity. Vesak must become a collective energy to strengthen brotherhood, spread peace, and nurture pluralism as the nation’s strength,” Minister Nasaruddin concluded. ***