Jimmy TanThe Buddhist Missionary Society Malaysia (BMSM) marked a significant milestone with a grand celebration at Pusat Buddhis Dhammaduta Malaysia (PBDM) in Putrajaya on 15 March 2025. The event, which included Pindapata, the Blessing of PBDM, and the Maha Sanghikadana, showcased the rich heritage of Buddhist traditions while fostering unity and the spirit of giving among devotees.
A Day of Spiritual Observances
The celebration began with the Pindapata ritual at 10:00 AM, where devotees participated in the traditional alms-gathering ceremony by offering cooked rice to the monastic community. This ancient practice not only reflects Buddhist teachings on generosity but also strengthens the bond between the Sangha and lay practitioners.
At 10:30 AM, the Blessing of PBDM ceremony took place, invoking auspiciousness upon the center and its mission to propagate the Dhamma. This solemn occasion aimed to ensure the continued spiritual and community work undertaken by the center.
The day’s highlight was the Maha Sanghikadana at 11:30 AM, where devotees offered essential requisites to the Sangha. This act of generosity is considered highly meritorious in Buddhist practice, symbolizing the collective support for the preservation and dissemination of the Buddha’s teachings.
Adding to the cultural vibrancy, a youth lion dance group made a symbolic appearance after the Pindapata, paying respects to the Buddha and the monastic assembly. Although a full lion dance performance did not take place, their participation reflected the event’s inclusive spirit.
The celebration concluded with a group photo of the Sangha members, capturing the significance of the occasion. Attendees also had the opportunity to engage informally with the monks and make last-minute purchases at the food fair, which ran from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM to raise funds for PBDM’s ongoing development.
Honoring Leadership and Commitment
The successful realization of this milestone was attributed to the dedication of BMSM President Sister Loh Pai Ling and her committee. Their steadfast leadership has been instrumental in transforming PBDM into a national hub for Buddhist education and community service.
Under their guidance, PBDM continues to serve as a platform for Dhamma propagation, interfaith cooperation, and public outreach. This commitment to preserving and sharing Buddhist values reflects BMSM’s mission to nurture spiritual growth while fostering social harmony.
The event also underscored the collaborative spirit within the Buddhist community, with the participation of approximately 70 Sangha members reinforcing the collective responsibility to sustain and advance the Dhamma in Malaysia.
PBDM: A Symbol of Religious Harmony
Pusat Buddhis Dhammaduta Malaysia stands as a beacon of Buddhism in Malaysia’s administrative capital, Putrajaya. It represents BMSM’s visionary commitment to promoting Buddhist teachings while encouraging dialogue and cooperation with other religious communities.
Since its founding in 1962, BMSM has played a leading role in Buddhist education and missionary work. The establishment of PBDM signifies a crucial step in institutionalizing these efforts on a national scale, ensuring that the Buddha’s teachings continue to inspire future generations.
Malaysia’s multicultural and multi-religious society is reflected in Putrajaya’s support for religious institutions like PBDM. The center stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to fostering religious inclusivity and providing spaces where diverse communities can practice and preserve their faith traditions.
The celebration at PBDM was not only a commemoration of BMSM’s achievements but also a reaffirmation of the enduring relevance of Buddhist values in modern Malaysia. Through ongoing community engagement and spiritual guidance, PBDM remains a pillar of support for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the Dhamma.
As the event concluded, the echoes of devotion and generosity resonated beyond the center’s walls, symbolizing a legacy that will continue to inspire and serve the Malaysian Buddhist community for years to come.
CJMY
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