The 19th Sakyadhita International Buddhist Women’s Conference officially opened today at the Waterfront Hotel, bringing together more than 400 participants from over 35 countries for a week of dialogue, learning and spiritual exchange.
The conference, themed “Leading Change: The Transformation of Buddhist Women”, aims to explore the evolving role of Buddhist women in personal, social and global change.
The Sakyadhita Conference is held every two years and has previously been held in culturally and spiritually rich cities such as Bangkok, Colombo, Taipei, Seoul, Sydney and Hong Kong.
This year marks a milestone for Malaysia, with Kuching being the host city for the second time since the conference was held in Kuala Lumpur in 2006.
Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak Dato’ Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian expressed his pride in Sarawak’s growing role as a model of harmony, cultural vitality and tolerance.
“We are very honoured today that Kuching has been added to this distinguished list of host cities.
“This reflects the growing profile of our city as a clean, harmonious and culturally vibrant city. In Sarawak, multiculturalism is not just a concept, but a living reality. ” he said.
Furthermore, he noted that the theme of the conference is not limited to Buddhism.
“As we face institutional, generational, technological, environmental and geopolitical changes, this theme applies not only to Buddhist women but also to women of all faiths.
“Against the backdrop of global change, Buddhist women continue to embody compassion, resilience and equality,” he said.
He highlighted the role of the conference as an important platform for dialogue and empowerment, where participants can exchange ideas, build connections and support each other in their spiritual journeys.
Dr Sim also acknowledged the growing importance of Buddhist teachings in modern society.
“As society progresses, we may lose sight of timeless values.
“Now more than ever, we need the wisdom of the Dharma to guide us through the transformations of our times with integrity,” he said. ”
Recalling the origins of the movement, he noted that since the first Sakyadhita Conference in 1987, it has grown into a global platform for visibility and advocacy.
“From Cambodia to Nepal, from Vietnam to Australia, this conference has allowed Buddhist women to be seen and heard, to play an active role not only in religious life but also in nation-building,” he said.
Concluding, he gave a message of hope and encouragement, calling on all participants to make the most of the five-day event.
“The knowledge you share, the friendships you make, and the networks you build will inspire future action.
“When we work together, we can create a more peaceful, more compassionate world.
“May the light of the dharma continue to shine, and may this journey benefit not only those present, but countless others around the world,” he said.
