Kuala Lumpur: Around 25,000 devotees are anticipated to join the Wesak Day float procession commencing from the Buddhist Maha Vihara, Brickfields on Monday, May 12. Joint Wesak Celebration Committee (JWCC) chairman Ng Yong Pau announced that the procession, featuring approximately 30 floats, will begin at 6 pm from Jalan Berhala. The route includes Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Jalan Petaling, Jalan Yap Ah Loy, Jalan Hang Lekiu, Jalan Gereja, and Jalan Raja Chulan.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the procession will complete its journey back to the Maha Vihara via Jalan P Ramlee, Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, and Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad, covering an estimated 12 kilometers over four hours. Ng highlighted that the 25,000 figure pertains to those walking alongside the floats, excluding the additional bystanders or spectators. This year’s theme for the procession is ‘Foster True Compassion and Wisdom, Forge True Peace and Harmony.’
Ng also noted that a change in traffic direction has led to a route adjustment, excluding Jalan Bukit Bintang. The procession aims to spread peace and harmony, hallmarks of Buddhist teachings. Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook is expected to attend the launching ceremony.
In addition to the procession, the Buddhist Maha Vihara will host a blood donation campaign and offer free food. Thousands are expected to visit the temple with offerings, including flowers, candles, and joss sticks.
Meanwhile, Buddhist Chief High Priest of Malaysia, Datuk Dr. K. Sri Dhammaratana, expressed concerns about modern society’s drift from spiritual and familial roots. He urged parents to impart fundamental teachings of great masters to their children, emphasizing the importance of maintaining spiritual and family connections.
Wesak Day is a significant event for Buddhists, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. The festival involves traditional activities such as lighting incense sticks and lotus-shaped candles, offering flowers, and symbolically bathing the Buddha statue.