(Kuala Lumpur, Sept 8) In a world often fraught with divisions and conflicts, the event featuring a dual exhibition themed “Shared Values on Peace and Harmonious Coexistence” stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing the unifying principles that transcend religious and cultural divides.

Organised by Soka Gakkai Malaysia (SGM) in collaboration with the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC-IIUM) and the Institute of Oriental Philosophy (IOP), with the support of the Ministry of National Unity, the grand opening of the event took place at ISTAC-IIUM on September 8. The occasion brought together around 300 dignitaries, scholars, religious leaders, students, and community members for a meaningful and engaging exploration of shared values, aiming to build bridges of understanding and peace.

Ribbon cutting	IOP presented manuscript to Ministry of National Unity

The opening ceremony was officiated by YB Senator Saraswathy Kandasami, Deputy Minister of National Unity, representing Minister YB Datuk Aaron Ago Anak Dagang. In the Minister’s speech, delivered by the Deputy Minister, he highlighted, “It is through such exchanges, dialogues, and collaborative initiatives that we can foster understanding, trust, and mutual respect among different communities.”

This unique event features two complementary exhibitions: “Islam on Peace and Harmonious Coexistence,” focusing on the universal teachings of Islam, and “The Lotus Sutra – A Message of Peace and Harmonious Coexistence,” which highlights the profound philosophy of the Lotus Sutra, one of the most influential and revered sutras in the history of Buddhism.

Aligned with the Malaysia Madani concept, the exhibitions emphasise shared values like peace, compassion, and respect for the sanctity of life. In today’s interconnected world, these core principles are more vital than ever in fostering understanding and cooperation among different faiths.

Mr. Koh Sia Feai, General Director of Soka Gakkai Malaysia, remarked during the opening ceremony, “By showcasing these two exhibitions, we are not only honouring the rich traditions of Islam and Buddhism, particularly the Lotus Sutra, but also highlighting the common ground we all stand on—our shared values of peace, compassion, and the inherent dignity of every individual.”

Following the opening ceremony, a forum on “Peace and Harmonious Coexistence” was held, featuring four prominent scholars and researchers: Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr Osman Bakar, Holder of Al-Ghazali Chair of Epistemology and Civilisational Studies and Renewal, ISTAC-IIUM; Hon. Prof. Ryohei Tanaka, Director of the Institute of Oriental Philosophy; Prof. Dato’ Dr Christopher Boey Chiong Meng, Hon. Prof. at Universiti Malaya and Dr Nurul Ain Binti Norman, Head of Responsible Research and Innovation, ISTAC-IIUM. Panelists shared their insights on promoting mutual respect and understanding among different communities, emphasising that only through such continuous and open dialogue can we create a truly harmonious and peaceful society.

“The Lotus Sutra – A Message of Peace and Harmonious Coexistence” exhibition, curated by the Institute of Oriental Philosophy, has toured 17 countries and territories worldwide since 2006, drawing over 900,000 visitors by 2022. First showcased in Malaysia in 2014, the exhibition returns after a decade-long hiatus. Beyond its philosophical focus on the sanctity of life, the exhibition presents an array of rare Buddhist manuscripts and artefacts from prestigious institutions around the world, including the Dunhuang Academy in China, the Institute of Oriental Manuscripts of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and the International Academy of Indian Culture in New Delhi, India.

Meanwhile, the “Islam on Peace and Harmonious Coexistence” exhibition showcases selected excerpts from the Holy Qur’an and Hadith, highlighting Islam’s core principles of peace, justice, compassion, and respect for life. Peace (salam), deeply ingrained in the faith, is presented as a key message of Islam, reinforcing the religion’s commitment to harmony and coexistence.

All members of the public, scholars, students and anyone interested in exploring the universal values of peace and harmony are welcome to visit this extraordinary event at ISTAC-IIUM from September 8 to 27. Exhibition hours are from 10am – 5pm, and admission is free. For group appointments, please WhatsApp 011-5789 1096.

For more information about the event, please visit the Soka Gakkai Malaysia website.

Shared Values on Peace and Harmonious Coexistence
Featuring Two Exhibitions:
♦ Islam on Peace and Harmonious Coexistence
♦ The Lotus Sutra – A Message of Peace and Harmonious Coexistence

Exhibition Period
Date    : September 8 – 27
Time    : 10am – 5pm
Venue  : International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC-IIUM)
 24, Persiaran Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, Bukit Tunku, 50480 Kuala Lumpur.