KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 — A national conference on Buddhist principles and MADANI practices will be organised for the first time on May 23, in conjunction with the 2026 National Wesak Day celebration.
Themed "Traversing Wisdom and Civilisation: Buddhist Principles & MADANI Practices", the conference will bring together religious leaders, scholars, and civil society representatives to discuss the compatibility of Buddhist teachings with the Malaysian MADANI framework.
The conference will be attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, symbolising the government's commitment to interfaith dialogue.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Aro Dagang said the government will continue to support and uphold various religious activities in the country.
"Religious events involving different faiths, including Buddhism and Christianity, reflect a broad movement that connects people of diverse beliefs.
"The goal is for the people to understand, accept and observe together. After that, we celebrate,” he said during a media conference today, with Transport Minister Anthony Loke in attendance.
Meanwhile, Loke said the value of compassion is one of the core principles of Buddhist teachings that aligns with the Malaysia MADANI concept, alongside always doing good to others, speaking kindly, and so on.
"So this is a value we see as universal; it transcends all religions. As emphasised in the MADANI principles. It is not unique or exclusive to any particular religion," he said.
Loke added that the MADANI concept is grounded in universal values, including mutual respect and sustainability.
"All religions urge their followers to bring benefit to others. This is what we hope can translate into understanding between religions and races, something that is very important in our country's multi-racial society," he said.
The conference is one of two main initiatives in this year's Wesak celebration, organised by the MADANI government through the National Unity Ministry and the Transport Ministry, in collaboration with the Malaysian Buddhist Consultative Council.
In addition to the conference, the government is also implementing a Grassroots Wesak Celebration programme to channel direct support to Buddhist organisations at the community level nationwide.
Under this programme, up to 1,000 registered temples and Buddhist centres nationwide will each receive RM2,000 in assistance.
