20 May 2024
Venerable Monks
Distinguished Co-chairs
Excellencies
1 I extend our warmest wishes of goodwill on this commemoration of the International Day of Vesak.
2 I would also like to express my delegation’s deepest appreciation to the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka Ambassador Mohan Pieris and the Permanent Representative of Thailand Ambassador Suriya Chindawongse, and their Missions, for organising today’s event.
3 This year’s Vesak commemoration is especially significant. It marks the 25th Anniversary of the adoption of the General Assembly resolution 54/115, to recognise the International Day of Vesak. As we celebrate this important milestone, it is opportune for us to reflect on the timeless values espoused by Gautama Buddha – peace, harmony, tolerance, kindness, and compassion. These values stand in stark contrast to the continuing challenges we face in the world today, including deepening inequalities, rising intolerance, violent conflicts, and wars. We should look to these universal values in working to overcome these challenges for a better future.
4 This sacred day is observed as an important religious day in Singapore. The Buddhist community is the largest religious group in Singapore’s multi-racial and multi-religious population, forming more than one third of our resident population. Traditionally, on Vesak day, Buddhists in Singapore would visit their temples to pray and participate in rituals. They would often spend the rest of the day on worthy causes, as it is believed that good deeds on Vesak Day will multiply merit many times over.
5 In line with Guatama Buddha’s teachings of compassion and service to others, the Buddhist community in Singapore has made important contributions to our nation, particularly in demonstrating generosity towards and acceptance of followers of all faiths or none. Religious organisations in Singapore, such as the Singapore Buddhist Federation, have worked tirelessly to advocate for unity in diversity, including by developing relationships with different religious leaders and participating actively in the Racial and Religious Harmony Circles. Others such as the Singapore Buddhist Welfare Services provide monthly financial assistance and food rations for needy students and families regardless of race or religion. These contributions by the Buddhist community have enhanced community bonding, social cohesion, and inter-faith understanding in Singapore.
Excellencies,
6 As we honour the birth, enlightenment and passing into Nirvana of Gautama Buddha, let us also embrace his messages of peace, harmony, tolerance and compassion in our actions. Only then will we be able to bridge differences, realise peace, and work together to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and restore hope in a darkening world.
7 On this day, let us focus on what unites us, and come together to shape a peaceful and inclusive world. I wish you all a blessed Vesak Day.
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