Public invited to join Buddha’s birthday celebration

KUCHING: The public is warmly invited to join a grand celebration marking the Four-Faced Buddha’s birthday from November 5 to 9, at the Pertubuhan Penganut Agama Buddha Buddhamongkolsatan in Taman Hui Sing here.

The five-day event will be graced by two distinguished Buddhist masters (sifu), one from Thailand and another from Kuching, who will lead various spiritual activities.

Deputy Premier cum Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, as well as Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap Yau Sin are expected to attend the celebration.

Visitors can look forward to traditional Thai Buddhist prayers and the burning of dragon incense, led by the Thai sifu, reflecting a deep cultural exchange between Thai and local practices.

Highlights include the ‘Phra Rahu’ Prayer and the Sacred Flower Bath, both of which carry symbolic and spiritual significance.

The ‘Phra Rahu’ Prayer invites devotees to honour the deity Phra Rahu, seeking blessings for a prosperous year ahead. This ritual is believed to ward off bad luck, attract good fortune, and foster resilience in the face of change.

Through collective prayers and offerings, devotees aim to receive guidance and protection, preserving a tradition passed down through generations.

The Sacred Flower Bath, another key ritual, symbolises renewal and purification. Participants will receive a blessing with holy flower water to cleanse away past misdeeds and negativity, promoting a fresh start both spiritually and emotionally. This ritual is believed to drive out negative energies and attract good fortune for the year ahead.

“These activities hold deep spiritual value for Buddhists, symbolising a journey of renewal and blessing,” an event spokesperson said.

The public is encouraged to take part in these meaningful practices, which will run daily from 9 am to 10 pm at the event venue.

A grand opening ceremony will commence on November 5 at 9 am with the celebration concluding on November 9 with a closing ceremony at 7 pm. All are welcome to participate in this auspicious occasion.