From 22 to 24 February, 40 youths from four SGI South Asian countries – India, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand – gathered at Kuala Lumpur for the SGI South Asia Youth Training Course.

With the aim of fostering unity and advancing the kosen-rufu movement in their respective countries, the participants determined to spread the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism and advance based on their eternal mentor, President Ikeda’s guidance.

South Asia Youth Division having exchange dialogue during break time	Welcome speech by SGM youth division leader Andrew Looi

The training course began on 22 February with a welcome speech by SGM youth division leader Andrew Looi, followed by a study session by Soka Gakkai youth division leader Mitsuo Nishikata. The session focused on the “Vow” chapter of The New Human Revolution. He emphasised the importance for South Asian youth division members to strive and uphold the mission of realising worldwide kosen-rufu.

In the evening, the SGI South Asia Youth Executive Conference was held, with Soka Gakkai President Minoru Harada, Senior Vice President Yoshiki Tanigawa and SGM General Director Koh Sia Feai in attendance.

Representatives from Malaysia presented activity reports	Special lecture by Dr Sethu Kumanan

On 23 February, representatives from four countries presented activity reports from their respective organisations. In the afternoon, a special lecture by Chairperson of Soka Ikeda College of Arts and Science for Women (India), Dr Sethu Kumanan, was held. A non-Soka Gakkai member, Dr Sethu recounted his encounter with President Ikeda and his journey of establishing educational institutions inspired by President Ikeda’s philosophy.

On 24 February, a representative from each country shared their resolutions. Mr Nishikata closed the training course by encouraging the participants to strive diligently in fulfilling their respective missions.