Buddhists celebrated Wesak Day yesterday on a moderate scale by visiting temples nationwide, observing a ceremony symbolising Birth, Supreme Enlightenment and Death of Siddharta Gautama Buddha.

At the Maha Vihara Temple in Brickfields in Kuala Lumpur - the temple which has been the centre of celebrations for years - the hot weather in the morning failed to dampen the spirit of thousands of believers as they participated in religious activities.

Up till the afternoon, the area was congested as various main roads were closed for the procession held in conjunction with the Wesak Day celebrations.

As with previous years, the celebrations saw the presence of hundreds of foreign tourists who were excited being able to view decorated floats by Buddhist associations in the Klang Valley, and given blessings by Buddhist priests in the temple.

American tourist Alice Kenny, 41, described the celebrations as unique to Malaysia’s multi-racial society.

Drew Golden, a tourist from Canada, said he chose to travel to Malaysia this month to enable him to experience Wesak Day celebrations.

“Last year, I was in Korea to celebrate it but the celebrations there were pretty quiet,” he said, adding that what struck him was the way it was celebrated here in a harmonious manner.

Chinese international student, Chang Her Wen, 23, said besides the religious rituals, she also participated in the procession organised by the temple.

Buddhists traditionally visit temples to pray to Buddha and participate in prayer sessions, as well as give alms to the priests and the needy.

- Bernama