STATEMENT : COMMEMORATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF VESAK 2026

STATEMENT BY

MS. NUR AZURA ABD KARIM

PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

AT THE COMMEMORATION OF THE

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF VESAK 2026

Mr. Co-Chairs,

Venerable Monks and Nuns,

Excellencies,

Allow me to extend warm greetings and sincere wishes of a Happy Vesak to all Buddhists around the world celebrating this holy day.

2. Malaysia joins others in expressing appreciation to the organisers of today’s commemoration for bringing us together in observance of the International Day of Vesak. This gathering serves as an important reminder of our shared responsibility to promote peace, understanding and compassion in an increasingly complex world.

Venerable Monks and Nuns, Excellencies,

3. Today, as we gather with our Buddhist friends to honour the birth, enlightenment and passing of Gautama Buddha, we reflect on the enduring relevance of his teachings. The values of compassion, moderation, wisdom and mindfulness continue to resonate far beyond religious boundaries and remain essential in addressing the divisions, mistrust and suffering confronting humanity today.

4. Malaysia is proud of its rich multicultural and multi-religious society, where diversity continues to be embraced as a source of strength and unity. Buddhism is practised by millions of Malaysians and Vesak has long been recognised as a national public holiday, reflecting our country’s commitment to mutual respect, religious harmony and peaceful coexistence.

5. This year, Malaysia has further strengthened efforts to promote interfaith understanding and inclusivity through initiatives held in conjunction with the National Wesak Day celebration, including the inaugural conference on Buddhist principles and Malaysia MADANI practices. The conference brought together religious leaders, scholars and civil society representatives to promote dialogue on universal values such as compassion, mutual respect and social harmony.

6. Malaysia believes that the values promoted through Vesak and shared across many faiths can serve as a powerful foundation for fostering greater solidarity and understanding among communities. At a time when the world faces growing polarisation and conflict, these values are more important than ever.

Venerable Monks and Nuns, Excellencies,

7. The observance of Vesak reminds us of our common humanity and our collective aspiration for a more peaceful, just and compassionate world. Let us continue to strengthen dialogue, tolerance and cooperation among nations and peoples, guided by the spirit of empathy and respect for one another.

8. On this auspicious occasion, Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to promoting harmony and peaceful coexistence both within our society and at the international level.

I thank you.