National Wesak Conference promotes interfaith dialogue and unity

The National Wesak Conference 2026 brought together religious leaders, government representatives and members of civil society in Kuala Lumpur on May 23 to discuss how Buddhist teachings can contribute towards strengthening the values of Malaysia Madani.

Organised by the Malaysian Buddhist Consultative Council, the conference was held at Menara KEN TTDI under the theme “Buddhist Principles & The Practices of Madani”.

The event focused on aligning timeless Buddhist values with the Malaysia Madani framework, which emphasises compassion, respect, sustainability and social harmony.

The morning session, titled “The Inner Peace That Fuels Outer Stability”, centred on the idea that national stability begins with personal mindfulness and moral discipline. Participants explored how spiritual development could help foster a more peaceful and resilient society.

An interfaith dialogue titled “The Architecture of Respect: Inter-faith Synergy for a MADANI Nation” also highlighted the importance of mutual understanding among Malaysia’s diverse communities. Representatives from Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism shared perspectives on coexistence and tolerance, reflecting the country’s multicultural identity.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, in his keynote address, called on Malaysians to reject divisive politics and unite around shared values.

“The majority of Malaysians must have the principles (to reject hate politics). Only a minority portion of people are causing the fear-mongering,” he said during the conference.

Anwar acknowledged that elements of hatred and division still existed despite ongoing efforts by the unity government to improve the economy, education and technological progress.

He also urged Malaysians to reflect on Buddhist principles such as sila (moral conduct), karuna (compassion) and panna (wisdom), noting that these values resonate with Islamic teachings.

“These are not just values and principles. They are habits of the heart,” he added.

Cultural performances reflect Malaysia’s diversity

The afternoon sessions shifted towards practical applications of Madani principles through discussions on compassion, sustainability and mindful innovation.

Panels explored how Buddhist compassion could inspire humanitarian initiatives, while discussions on sustainable prosperity examined ethical approaches to economic and social development. Another session focused on balancing technological advancement with human-centred values.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke described the conference as a milestone in government and civil society collaboration.

“This is the first time the government is co-organising the Wesak Day national conference and it is also the first one to be attended by the country’s prime minister,” he said.

Loke also revealed that the government had approved RM2.5 million to support the conference and grassroots activities by around 1,000 Buddhist organisations nationwide. Each organisation, he said, would receive RM2,000 for local initiatives.

The conference concluded with the Wesak Cultural Gala at “The Platform”, featuring performances including Shaolin Kungfu, ballet and multi-ethnic dances, symbolising unity through cultural diversity.