The Lotus Sutra Exhibition

What is urgently needed now is a conceptual, philosophical basis that will help transcend the forces of division and hatred underlying these global problems and make possible unity through compassion. I believe the Lotus Sutra…will become a ray of light piercing the spiritual darkness so that we may open the way to a new century.

-Dr Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President & IOP Founder-

In a world beset by crises ranging from natural disasters to escalating violence and societal fragmentation, the question of how to forge a path to peace and harmony becomes increasingly urgent.

Exhibition Venues

SGI Asia Culture & Education Centre

Main Exhibition

The Lotus Sutra – A Message of Peace and Harmonious Coexistence

Exhibition Duration	18 October 2024 – 29 December 2024
Opening Hours	Tue-Thu: 10:00am – 5:00pm Fri-Sun & Public Holidays: 10:00am – 7:00pm *Closed on Mondays
Address	Jalan Seri Austin 1, Taman Seri Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Free admission

International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC-IIUM)

Theme of the Event

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 Duration	8 September 2024 – 28 September 2024
Opening Hours	Daily: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Address	24, Persiaran Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, Bukit Tunku, 50480 K.L.
Free admission

VISITORS’ DRESS CODE

PROHIBITED
* Transparent and tight clothing
* Indecent images and words on clothing

❌ Sleeveless Shirt
❌ Short Skirt
❌ Short Pants
❌ Slippers

PLEASE ADHERE TO THE DRESS CODE.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION.

Group Booking

SGI Asia Culture & Education Centre

Prior appointment is required for group of 10 or more who require guided tour.

International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC-IIUM)

Please note that due to the limited space of the exhibition at ISTAC, large groups arriving by bus are not encouraged. For group visits, kindly contact us in advance to schedule an appointment.

About the Exhibition

Initiated and curated by the Institute of Oriental Philosophy, Japan (IOP), this exhibition, which will showcase valuable illustrations and artefacts, including the manuscripts of the Lotus Sutra in various languages, replicas of Dunhuang Grottoes and relics, is rich with historical education, aesthetic significance and academic values.

This exhibition has been touring the world since 2006. It has attracted more than 900,000 visitors in 17 countries and territories of the world as of 2022.

Malaysia was the 11th country in the world and the first Southeast Asian country to host the exhibition in 2014, with a total of 71,168 visitors.

About the Lotus Sutra

In the history of Buddhism, the Lotus Sutra is one of the most influential and widespread sutras.

Translated into numerous languages, the Lotus Sutra emphasises that every human being possesses unlimited inner potential, promotes profound philosophy and thoughts, and reveals the fundamental principles for happiness and peace of humanity.

>> Watch The Seven Parables of the Lotus Sutra Animation Series

The Lotus Sutra Exhibition had attracted many visitors due to its message of peace and harmonious coexistence.

After a 10-year hiatus, “The Lotus Sutra – A Message of Peace and Harmonious Coexistence” Exhibition is set to return to Malaysia in 2024.

Key Themes

(1) Dignity of Life

The Lotus Sutra emphasises the inherent dignity and worth of all beings, irrespective of differences in background, belief or culture.

Through its teachings of universal compassion and inclusivity, the exhibition underscores the importance of embracing diversity as a source of strength and enrichment in our communities.

(2) Harmonious Coexistence

At the heart of the Lotus Sutra lies a profound message of peace and reconciliation.

By promoting dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect, the exhibition seeks to inspire individuals and nations to transcend conflict and work together toward a more peaceful and harmonious world.

Impressions

Before the Lotus Sutra exhibition in 2014, the organisers had collaborated with the Centre for Civilisational Dialogue at University of Malaya to host a symposium titled, “Intercivilisational Dialogue towards Peace, Harmonious Coexistence and Sustainability.”

The co-organisers have received numerous positive and encouraging responses from visitors of diverse backgrounds and faiths, including government ministers, embassy representatives, scholars, artists, representatives from different faiths, businesspersons, as well as ordinary and young people.

Prof Dr Awang Bulgiba Awang Mahmud
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), University of Malaya
(2014)

I think this exhibition is a very good effort to promote inter-civilisation and interfaith dialogue, and I am impressed with the effort shown here. I am very pleased to see the Centre for Civilisational Dialogue (of UM) working closely with SGM and the IOP. The [replicas of] the ancient manuscripts impressed me in particular. Efforts to compile and interpret these manuscripts are truly fantastic.

Ho Khek Hua
Deputy Director-General, Department of National Unity and Integration, Prime Minister's Department
(2014)

This exhibition enables visitors to understand what the Lotus Sutra is about in a people-friendly manner, especially for non-Buddhist friends. It will be good for people from various faiths to come see this exhibition and learn more about Buddhism.
The theme of the exhibition, "A Message of Peace and Harmonious Coexistence", is something that people in society should learn more about, in order to promote peace and harmony in society. Peace and harmony are core values in all religions. Practitioners of all faiths will agree that maintaining harmony in society is very important.

Professor Dr Alberto Christian Marquez
School of Humanities, Universidad de Montevideo (Uruguay)
(2014)

It opened a new, fascinating and extraordinary world for me with its educational and historical values and beautiful artefacts. I was astonished to learn of artefacts from imperial Russia (such as the Petrovsky manuscript).
I am Roman Catholic, and know little of Buddhism, but I was able to learn more about Buddhism through this exhibition. The exhibition speaks from the viewpoint of rationality and intellectualism and also of faith.
I can see that the Lotus Sutra shares many common values with Christianity, universal values which I can appreciate and share with people, whether or not they are religious.

Dr Voon Phin Keong
Director, Institute of Malaysian & Regional Studies, New Era University College
(2014)

I was impressed with the exhibits. The maps shown here contain information that is difficult to find. They gave me a good idea of how monks and other people spread Buddhism in the earlier days. I was surprised to learn that Japanese monks wrote in classical Chinese instead of using Japanese scripts.
The message of peace and coexistence of the exhibition is essential nowadays as people may be misguided, and the exhibition can help provide some direction and guidance.

Associate Professor Dr Raihanah Abdullah
Deputy Dean, Humanities Cluster, UM Research, University of Malaya
(2014)

Through the exhibits, I can see that there is a dialogue that is being carried out [between the exhibits and the viewers]. Yes, the exhibits cannot "speak" to each other, but there is definitely a dialogue that is carried out [with the viewers]. Dialogue is not just about speaking. You begin by listening by looking.
I was also very happy to learn that the Lotus Sutra teaches gender equality, as demonstrated in the story of the enlightenment of the dragon girl. Women too can attain enlightenment.
Buddhism also teaches people to be good to animals, something that the Al-Quran also speaks about.

Venerable Jue Cheng
Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Malaysia
(2014)

The Lotus Sutra is truly a heritage of humanity and the most beautiful work of Buddhist literature. I congratulate SGM on its effort to share good values with society through this exhibition. I am sure that the efforts of the organisers and the volunteers to plant these seeds of peace will definitely be able to move people in our multi-ethnic, multi-religious society.

Tang Ah Chai
Chief Executive Officer, Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall
(2014)

The theme of the exhibition is vital for us today. I believe the exhibition has important messages that can inspire and enlighten future generations. The exhibits in here can also promote cultural exchange, such as those inspired by items found at World Heritage Sites (the cave paintings in Dunhuang). I hope to see people of various ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds come here and view this exhibition.

Dr Vedhakumar Valliappan
Food processing consultant
(2014)

I was impressed by the artifacts from Lembah Bujang that are found in Malaysia and I am thinking of visiting the area. We definitely need to further promote the message of "Peace and Harmonious Coexistence". All religions do promote it; practitioners of religions may not.
I see people of many faiths coming to this exhibition and this is a good impression on the exhibition. It's definitely a huge step for SGM.

Prof Dr Syed Farid Alatas
Professor of Sociology at the National University of Singapore
(2024)

I found the exhibition to be very inspiring and exhilarating. I think the idea of exhibition is always very good because it helps to concretise ideas that may seem very abstract to people. When you speak about peace and harmony, it is an abstract idea that people might find it difficult to imagine. How these abstract ideas can be actually realised in reality, is through exhibitions. Particularly in exhibitions such as artistic pieces and visual arts, really help people to understand how abstract ideas can be concretised into reality.

HE Dr Waheed
Former President of Maldives
(2024)

I’m very impressed by the exhibitions and the forum that has happened today. I think the speeches were excellent. Most of the speakers addressed the message of peace, development, global understanding and peaceful coexistence. I think these speeches were excellent, they were expert’s statements. This morning we listened to those speeches and it was very well attended, and we learned a lot from various statements that were made. I understand that this is a very important event that has been organised by the IOP, along with IIUM and Soka Gakkai Malaysia. It came out very well.

YB Senator Puan Saraswathy Kandasami
Deputy Minister of National Unity, Malaysia
(2024)

The exhibitions highlight the core values of religions – harmony, peace, and love for fellow human beings. They are seen as valuable and should be held more frequently in various locations to demonstrate that religion is not a source of conflict but rather a means of fostering humanity, love, and harmony. The Lotus Sutra Exhibition illustrates Buddhism's commitment to peace and love, showing how the principles of the Lotus Sutra have captivated and been embraced globally. The exhibition is marvellous and I wish to pay a visit again.

Datuk Prof Dr Abdelaziz Berghout
Dean of ISTAC-IIUM
(2024)

The success of the two exhibitions demonstrates growing support and interest in peace and harmonious living. This momentum should be leveraged to deepen efforts in peace-building through collaborative programs and genuine acts of friendship. The Lotus Sutra exhibition is particularly notable for integrating the principles of peace and harmony into cultural and personal behaviours. It effectively presents peace not just as an abstract concept but as a real solution to global issues, emphasising its importance and impact. The core teachings of Islam align with the principles of peace, love, and unity, acknowledging Dr Ikeda's impressive global influence and his contribution to these ideals.

Zulkifly Baharom
CEO of Sejahtera Leadership Initiative
(2024)

One thing we can learn from Ikeda is that he is forward-thinking. This work must continue but with greater focus. Instead of just dialogue and discussions for scholars, I would like to see tangible outcomes and actions that follow. I’m confident that young people will be involved – they are the change agents. As scholars, we organise conferences, conduct comparative studies and publish books. But now, what we need are the doers and implementers.

Prof Datuk Osman Bakar
Holder of Al-Ghazali Chair of Epistemology and Civilizational Studies and Renewal at the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)
(2024)

I think this is one of the best interfaith, interreligious events we’ve had. It’s very well organised, and the message is good. We can see the encounters between the late President Ikeda and great Islamic intellectuals, such as Abdurrahman Wahid and Majid Tehranian. One thing I particularly appreciate is the emphasis on “harmonious” coexistence – not just coexistence, but coexistence in harmony.

Dr Asmawati Muhammad
Deputy Director of University of Malaya Centre for Continuing Education
(2024)

An academic exhibition like this can encourage young people to respect and embrace different belief systems. It allows us to see the best values from each tradition – what Buddhists can learn from Islam, and what the Muslim community can appreciate from Buddhist teachings. In times like these, it's crucial to celebrate our differences while collaborating to achieve harmonious coexistence.

Ven Datuk K Sri Dhammaratana
Buddhist Chief High Priest of Malaysia
(2024)

The Lotus Sutra exhibition covers many aspects and provides more clarity than simply reading books. Today's event also features the Qur'an, highlighting the principles of peaceful coexistence. In light of the current global situation, it's important to enlighten more people. I strongly encourage organising more activities like this, using various approaches to engage the younger generation.

HE Jose Luis Pardo
Ambassador of Spain to Malaysia
(2024)

The exhibitions are not just about historical aspects, but also convey important messages, messages about spirituality. Both Islam and Buddhism promote peace, tolerance and harmonious coexistence, and stress how important it is for human beings to know each other. This is very important in a country like Malaysia which is multiethnic, multicultural and multi-religious.

YB Dr Gunarajah George
Sentosa (Selangor) assemblyperson
(2024)

I would like to call upon the public to come visit the exhibitions, and learn how people in the past came together and lived the values on display here. This is a message we need to share with people, especially the younger generation. The Lotus Sutra has an important message for humanity and we should learn more about this message.

Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Dzulkifli Abdul Razak
Former Rector, International Islamic University Malaysia
(2024)

This exhibition highlights an existing value system that we can share and use to begin a dialogue to make peace happen. Through this, humanity can come closer as we work together as one group.

Dr Eyo Leng Yan
Director, Intangible Heritage Division, Department of National Heritage Malaysia
(2024)

I understand that bringing this exhibition here is not easy. People should take to take the opportunity to visit and learn about the heritage and history of Buddhism.

Edey Suresh
Board Director at Large, UN Global Compact Network Malaysia and Brunei
(2024)

The Mogao Caves were excavated with immense effort, prompting me to reflect on what motivated people in the past to undertake such a task. This indicates that this sutra holds philosophical importance.

Thanam Visvanathan-Suresh
President, Johor Women’s League
(2024)

I like the message conveyed by the Lotus Sutra: to recognise and fulfil one’s own potential. Many women find themselves in subservient roles because of cultural expectations. However, the Lotus Sutra clearly states that women can attain Buddhahood.

Tan Chai Puan
National Living Heritage
(2024)

I view Mr Ikeda’s efforts to gather and share ancient global philosophies within a modern context as a profound spiritual practice. The sharing of insights gained from his endeavours through various means is truly remarkable.

Lee Li Fong
Vice-President, Buddha’s Light International Association Malaysia South Chapter
(2024)

The seven parables are presented in a unique manner, employing innovative techniques such as lighting effects and motion screens. It fosters quicker engagement compared to traditional text presentations.

Tan Tai Kim
Chairperson, Johor Chinese School Managers and Teachers Association
(2024)

An exhibition focused on co-creating harmony and cultural coexistence in Malaysia is definitely worth a visit. I believe it is a great exhibition because it radiates positive energy.

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Organisers, Supporters, Partners

Dunhuang Academy Soka Gakkai Malaysia

The Lotus Sutra is an ode to diversity in the real sense of the term.

-Prof. Majid Tehranian, the First Director of the Toda Institute for Global Peace and Policy Research-

Visitor Counter

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Malaysia (2024)

Programme

Lotus Flower-Making Workshop

The lotus flower symbolises purity and grace across cultures.

As part of the Lotus Sutra Exhibition, there will be two lotus flower-making handicraft workshops!

Join us on 15 and 22 September (Sunday) at ISTAC-IIUM, and immerse yourself in learning how to make a handmade lotus flower using chenille stems!

Date: 15 September & 22 September
Time: 10am -12pm
Fee: RM10 / pax
Limited to 20 pax per session.

WhatsApp us for registration and payment.

*Fee includes materials. T&C apply.

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Exhibition Venues

SGI Asia Culture & Education Centre

The Lotus Sutra – A Message of Peace and Harmonious Coexistence

International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC-IIUM)

Shared Values on Peace and Harmonious Coexistence

Group Booking

SGI Asia Culture & Education Centre

International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC-IIUM)

About the Exhibition

About the Lotus Sutra

Key Themes

Impressions

Organisers, Supporters, Partners

Visitor Counter

Programme

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