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FACE TO FACE | EASTERN HORIZON 39

Mindfulness can also be found in small everyday The beauty of Buddhism in Malaysia lies in its
acts—like noticing which leg steps forward first when diversity. Different traditions—Mahāyāna, Theravāda,
entering a lift, which finger presses the lift button, or Vajrayāna—coexist with mutual respect and
how we wave when saying goodbye. Meditation isn’t just inclusiveness. The complementary roles played by each
about sitting still; it’s about bringing awareness into all have made the development of Buddhism here both
aspects of daily life. stable and unique. This open-mindedness has fostered
a community where exchange and sharing of thoughts
You’re known to be an avid traveler and have visited happen freely.
many Buddhist heritage sites. Can you share some of
your journeys and memorable experiences? The non-sectarian Rimé movement from Tibetan

Buddhism further encourages appreciation for
Yes, I love traveling—especially backpacking—as it the differences among the various traditions,
pushes me beyond my comfort zone. I’ve learned that acknowledging their value in meeting the diverse needs
plans often change, and adaptability is key. Along the of practitioners.
way, I’ve met many people whose stories offered new
insights and reflections. Each encounter has helped me I’m especially proud of the Malaysian youths I’ve met.
grow and gradually eased my fear of the unfamiliar. They are dedicated, sincere, and eager to serve. These
admirable qualities are something special, and I hope
I started with Southeast Asia, as I’m particularly drawn to they continue across generations.
its rich historical and cultural heritage. My first major trip
was to Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Travel wasn’t as easy While global statistics show a decline in those
back then, but that trip was an eye-opener. I realized that identifying as Buddhists, I see this not as a threat but
“going out” wasn’t as daunting as I had imagined. as a reminder. It challenges us to reflect: How can we
ensure the Dharma continues to flourish?
One memorable moment was at Lovina Beach in northern
Bali, known for dolphin watching at sunrise. The night Buddhist education remains crucial. Also, not everyone
before, I met two young brothers selling handcrafted labels themselves as a “Buddhist” today. Many—
dolphin souvenirs. I hadn’t planned to buy anything, but especially in the West—see themselves as truth seekers
their sincerity moved me—especially when I learned they who still live by the Buddha’s teachings.
were earning pocket money for school. Both dolphins are
still on display in my house today. Nowadays, humans Overall, I remain optimistic about the future of
sometimes lose touch with sincerity. Buddhism in Malaysia. The world will continue to
change, and so will the younger generation. We too must
Another unforgettable trip was to Borobudur in adapt. Nonetheless, the basic longing of sentient beings
Yogyakarta with some juniors from the Buddhist Society. to be free from suffering remains unchanged.
We decided to pay a bit more to stay nearby for early
access. We were so glad we made that decision. A few With artificial intelligence (AI) advancing rapidly,
of us went up before 6 a.m., and for a while, we had the including in Dhamma propagation, do you think
entire site to ourselves. The atmosphere was serene it brings more pros or cons? How can it support
and profound—I just wanted to sit and meditate. That Buddhist education?
morning remains one of my most treasured memories.
Whether we like it or not, AI has become an integral
Having been involved in Buddhist education for part of daily life. Like a knife, it is a tool—its value
nearly 20 years, how do you view the current state depends on how we use it. So rather than resist it, the
and future of Buddhism in Malaysia? more important question is how we can use it wisely.