BY JAMES WONG
KUCHING: This year’s Wesak Day is the first since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Sarawak Buddhist Association yesterday played host to people from all walks of life who gathered to pay their respects and honour the birth, enlightenment and passing away of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.
Many Buddhists presented offerings such as flowers, candles and incense as a symbol of respect and gratitude.
New Sarawak Tribune interviewed some of them for their views on this year’s Wesak Day celebrations.
PHOEBE ENG, 16
(student)
It feels special to be able to celebrate Wesak Day with my family in a grand manner here at this big temple. I also appreciate the opportunity to learn about the significance of Wesak Day and its importance to the Buddhist faith.
YONG SUN SUN, 29
(saleswoman)
It is uplifting to be able to experience Wesak Day with such a large crowd, especially after praying at home for the past few years. The past celebrations were more intimate but there is something special about being surrounded by so many people who share the same faith and beliefs.
LIM THIAN SIA, 41
(renovator)
Going to the temple with our families to perform prayer is a yearly tradition that we follow, and we appreciate the association’s efforts in organising a public celebration. We hope that this event can be expanded in the future to involve a larger number of people.
RICHARD LEE, 35
(hawker)
Personally, I find the Wesak Day celebration is a time to reflect and show our gratitude. It is heartening to see people of the same faith coming together with such enthusiasm and devotion.
