KUCHING: It is imperative for the Buddhist community in the state to band and stand together and observe all that is necessary, to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic, said Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng.
In view of Wesak Day today (May 26), Wee said he found that Buddha’s teaching has become more relevant and apt than ever in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This is perhaps the best time for us to reflect on the spiritual side of our life and if not, the core principle of Madhyama Pratipada, or known as the ‘Middle Way’ — a spiritual path that lays emphasis on moderation, and endeavours always to steer a middle course in the face of conflicting extremes and obstacles.
“Together, we shall, no matter how; overcome the surging pandemic, with moderate and effective measures and not resorting to conflicting one. We will duly follow the standard operating procedure (SOP) guidelines, and stay home wherever and whenever possible,” he said in a statement today (May 25).
He said the state government and MBKS are constantly looking at middle ways to ease the people’s predicaments and to curtail the spread of Covid-19, trying to preserve and to sustain the people’s livelihoods in these trying, difficult times.
On that note, he took the opportunity to wish a Happy Wesak Day to the Buddhist community who will be celebrating the festival.
“Today (May 26) is surely a meaningful day for every Buddhist, as we celebrate the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana of Siddhartha Gautama, our Lord Buddha.
“As Buddhists, we are embracing the three Jewels namely the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha, and to practice his very first teaching of the four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Paths and then to attain the eventual Nirvana — the ultimate spiritual goal of every Buddhist.
“May the brilliance of light resemble that of the Buddha’s immeasurable aura, granting us peace, tranquillity, and hope,” he added.
