Annual Buddhist Conference

7 December 2008, Hotel Armada, Petaling Jaya

Following the fruitful inaugural Conference in 2007, Nalanda Institute, together with the Buddhist Maha Vihara and Buddhist Gem Fellowship, organized WACANA 2008 with the theme "Buddhist Leadership in Malaysia - Vision, Values, Vitality".

WACANA 2008 proved to be another successful Conference just as it was in 2007. Six presentations were heard from eminent bhikkhus, bhikkhuni, and lay speakers. There were also three open-floor dialogues which many in the audience took advantage of to air their questions and views.

Issues related to Buddhist leadership were addressed and discussed at the meeting. There was clearly a common desire in the community to see the emergence of visionary, integral, and value-based leadership to lead us forward in these challenging times.

There was a marked increase in the number of participants from 2007, with a total of 509 attending WACANA 2008. Participants came from all states in Malaysia, as well as from some neighbouring countries, most notably from Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia.

Nalanda organizing team and volunteers in their traditional attire posed for a picture with Venerable Ajahn Jayasaro.

 

Senior members of the Maha Sangha listening intently to the presentations and speeches. More than 20 Sangha members from eight countries attended the Conference.

Conference presenters and moderators ( from left ) : Mr. Vijaya Samarawickrama, Dr. Phang Cheng Kar, Dr. Chan Kah Yein, and Mr. Tan Huat Chye.

A section of the Conference participants in the main hall. The day started with the singing of Negaraku, followed by the taking of refuge in the Three Jewels and the observance of five precepts.