Dozens of monks from several countries are walking across Indonesia’s main island of Java to promote interfaith harmony and inner peace ahead of the sacred Vesak Day festival.
A Journey of Devotion Across the Archipelago
More than 50 Buddhist monks began a spiritual trek on May 9 from Bali’s Brahma Vihara Arama monastery in Buleleng.
They were headed for the Borobudur Temple in Central Java, the world’s largest Buddhist monument.
The “Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026” covers roughly 500 kilometers with the group aiming to arrive by May 28 or 29.
Most participants are from Thailand, followed by Malaysia and other countries.
To deal with tropical heat, organizers have prepared a support vehicle with air conditioning.
The monks walk 30 to 40 kilometers daily, carrying only simple robes and alms bowls—practicing the austere lifestyle central to their vows.
“Every step we take can bring peace—not only to ourselves, but also to our families, our nation, and the world,” said Thosin, event committee head.
Bali as a Symbol of Harmony
Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Muhammad Syafi’i, commended the walk as a living example of tolerance.
He noted that support has come from local leaders of different faiths along the route.
Bali’s governor, Wayan Koster, said the initiative aligns with the island’s philosophy of maintaining balance and holiness in nature.
The monks will pass through East Java and Central Java, with daily health checks en route.
Organizers have also prepared contingency plans for extreme weather.
The walk will finish at Borobudur, where Buddhists across Indonesia gather each year for Vesak, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha.
For foreign observers, the event highlights how Indonesia—the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation—continues to protect its minority religious traditions through grassroots, interfaith cooperation.
Source: Bali ANTARA News, detik.com
Feat Image: Bali ANTARA News