The Opening Ceremony of the 6th Asia-Pacific Regional Interfaith Dialogue

12th March 2012

The Opening Ceremony of the dialogue began on the 12th March at Central Java Governor's Hall in Semarang, Indonesia. The theme of discussion is:“Strengthen the co-operation in regional, promote/facilitate peace in society.”

This theme will be break down into 2 main topics: 1) strengthen religious unity, for a better understanding and lessen conflict; 2) to propagate peace and wellbeing, from the religious leaders, through the tertiary education and culture, to the local Community.

The NZ private secretary for Ethnic Affairs and Deputy Chairperson of the Social services committee, Melissa Lee led a group of 13 religious leaders for this dialogue. The 13 religious leaders are Dr Anwar Ghani of Islam, Reverend Uesifilli Unasa of Christianity, Sister Catherine Jones of Catholicism, Abbess ManShin & Daniela Astrid Klein representing Buddhsim, Selva Ramasami of Hinduism, Todd Nachowitz & Paul Morris of Judaism, Prithipal Singh Basra of Sikhism and others.

A speech was first delivered by the Indonesia diplomat, Mr A.M Fachir, followed by the Java state governor, then the representatives from Australia, New Zealand and Philippines, etc.

Ms Melissa Lee expressed the religious affiliation has always been part of the NZ government policies, hope that this ideology with right understanding will extend to members of public through the religious service.

Followed by, talks from the various religious groups on their roles and achievements for the local community. And they shared their vast of experience on promoting peace and religion to the community, in hope to enhance their well being.

Venerable Abbess Manshin mentions the role and achievement of the BLIA-NZ while propagating Humanistic Buddhism through arts, culture, education and charity. The responsibility to assist and advocate policing to the local community, has initiated a relief mission for the Christchurch earthquakes; and Venerable Abbess Manshin was appointed as the patron for the police cadet in the 261 team.

The first day of dialogue ended with great consensus among the religious leaders on the theme. In the next few days, there will be group discussions to analyse and put forward the solution/action.