25,000 join Wesak Day procession celebrating unity

The heart of the city pulsed with spiritual energy and cultural splendour on May 12, as more than 25,000 devotees and onlookers gathered for the 2025 Wesak Day Float Procession. Organised by the Joint Wesak Celebration Committee (JWCC) and hosted by the iconic Buddhist Maha Vihara in Brickfields, the annual event transformed Kuala Lumpur’s streets into a vibrant tapestry of lights, chants, and reverent celebration.

Under this year’s theme, “Foster True Compassion and Wisdom, Forge True Peace and Harmony,” the 12-kilometre procession served as a living embodiment of Buddhist values. Beginning at 6:00 PM from the 131-year-old Buddhist Maha Vihara—Malaysia’s oldest Theravāda temple—the route meandered past landmarks including Central Market, Jalan Petaling, and Masjid Jamek. The procession’s momentum was carried forward by the rhythmic chanting of monks and followers, many of whom carried lotus-shaped lanterns or small Buddha effigies.

Approximately 30 elaborately designed floats took centre stage, each portraying stories from the Buddha’s life and teachings. Among the most striking was the Maha Vihara’s own float, featuring a serene depiction of the meditating Buddha sheltered by Mukalinda, the serpent king. The float, adorned with LED lights, sculpted Bodhi trees, and symbolic animals, captured the spiritual essence of nature, enlightenment, and resilience.

Celebration rooted in community spirit

While the visual grandeur captivated the crowds, the procession also spotlighted acts of compassion and public service. In a coordinated effort, the JWCC partnered with health and community organisations to set up a blood donation drive, organ donor pledge booths, and a Silent Mentor Program promoting body donation for medical education. More than 4,000 vegetarian meals were distributed freely, reflecting the Buddhist commitment to mindful living and service to others.

The turnout and smooth execution underscored the event’s growing significance as both a religious milestone and a symbol of Malaysia’s multicultural identity. Though deeply rooted in Theravāda Buddhist traditions, the celebration welcomed Malaysians of all walks of life, including tourists, interfaith observers, and local dignitaries. It was more than a religious procession—it was a moving display of unity, humility, and shared hope.

Selangor Wesak Month Passport

Adding a dynamic dimension to this year’s celebration was the launch of the Selangor Wesak Month Passport, an initiative spearheaded by the Selangor Buddhist Development Council (SBDC) in partnership with the Theravāda Buddhist Council of Malaysia (TBCM). Aimed at deepening engagement with Buddhist teachings and encouraging community-wide participation, the passport invites participants to visit any 10 of 20 selected Buddhist temples and societies throughout May.

The passport scheme not only encourages spiritual reflection and temple visitation but also reinforces the bonds between the diverse Buddhist communities in Selangor. Among the 20 listed centres are the Subang Jaya Buddhist Association, Nalanda Buddhist Society, Sri Lanka Buddhist Temple in Sentul, and Fo Guang Shan Malaysia in Petaling Jaya—each offering a unique interpretation of Buddhist practice.

Those who complete the passport will be eligible for a lucky draw at the Selangor State-Level Wesak Celebration on 17 May 2025, hosted by Maha Karuna Buddhist Society in Elmina, Shah Alam. Prizes include return flight tickets to Sri Lanka, dinner and tea sets, and a variety of surprise gifts. A dedicated booth will be set up for passport submission and verification, with organisers encouraging early arrival due to anticipated high turnout.

The 2025 Wesak Day Float Procession and its month-long affiliated activities reflect more than tradition—they embody a living, evolving commitment to peace, compassion, and harmony. In an era where social divisions are increasingly pronounced, such communal rituals serve as reminders of Malaysia’s deeply embedded interfaith values.