Putrajaya Festival of Ideas 2024 promotes interfaith unity

The Putrajaya Festival of Ideas (FOI) 2024, held from November 27 to 29 at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC), celebrated Malaysia’s innovative spirit and its commitment to unity. Among the various sessions, Sidang Selari 10: MADANI Melalui Kanta Berbilang Kepercayaan stood out as a significant platform for promoting interfaith dialogue. The session, held on November 28, brought together prominent voices to explore the role of diverse religious perspectives in fostering societal harmony under the Malaysia MADANI framework.

Chaired by YB Senator Zulkifli bin Hasan, the Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), the forum highlighted Malaysia’s dedication to building a cohesive society through mutual respect and shared values. The discussions focused on how faith-based principles can contribute to unity, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive future.

Insightful Perspectives from Prominent Speakers

The session featured keynote speeches and a robust panel discussion led by thought leaders from various faiths. Datuk Prof. Emeritus Dr. Teo Kok Seong, Principal Research Fellow at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, set the tone with a comprehensive analysis of the sociocultural dynamics influencing interfaith harmony in Malaysia. His insights were complemented by a panel of speakers who represented diverse religious beliefs.

Among them, Prof. Dato’ Dr. Zulkiple Abd Ghani of Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia highlighted how Islamic teachings promote coexistence and peace. Miss Loh Pai Ling, President of the Buddhist Missionary Society of Malaysia, shared Buddhist perspectives on compassion and respect. Pastor Mark Tan Yean Cheen from the Baptist Church emphasized shared values of love and service, while Dr. M Bala Tharmalingam, Founding President of MOKSHAH, delved into Hindu philosophies that resonate with MADANI’s principles.

These discussions underscored how faith-based values can serve as a bridge, connecting Malaysia’s multi-religious communities and fostering mutual understanding.

A Broader Festival Experience

While the interfaith dialogue captured the essence of unity, the larger Festival of Ideas brimmed with dynamic activities. Thousands of students showcased their creativity through exhibitions, competitions, and cultural performances. Food trucks offering local delicacies lined the event, creating a festive atmosphere. Mobile medical teams provided free health screenings, ensuring the event catered to both the mind and body.

The festival also featured parallel forums on sustainability, education, innovation, and leadership, further amplifying its theme of inclusivity and progress. These events attracted attendees from diverse backgrounds, making the FOI a melting pot of ideas and collaboration.

The Putrajaya Festival of Ideas 2024 embodied the principles of the Malaysia MADANI framework, which emphasizes sustainability, well-being, creativity, and respect. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim lauded the festival as a cornerstone for nation-building during his opening address. He emphasized the role of faith and noble values in grounding developmental progress.

Organized by the Higher Education Ministry under the leadership of Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir, the festival aimed to position Putrajaya as the “City of Ideas.” With its array of activities and discussions, the event provided an essential platform for Malaysians to engage in dialogue, share insights, and envision a unified future.