KUALA LUMPUR, June 28, 2026 – At a time when international tensions and humanitarian crises continue to challenge global stability, the promotion of interreligious dialogue remains an essential instrument for building peace and protecting human dignity.
On June 28, 2026, at the historic Maha Vihara Buddhist Temple in Kuala Lumpur, a bilateral meeting took place between Mr. A. Hemadasa, Vice President of the Temple, and Father Marco Baragli, Counselor for International Cooperation and Interreligious Dialogue of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP).
The meeting, which lasted more than two hours, was held in an atmosphere of mutual respect and constructive dialogue, focusing on the shared commitment to peace, human rights, and cooperation among religious communities.
A central theme of the discussions was the rejection of violence and armed conflict in all its forms. The representatives reaffirmed that lasting peace cannot be achieved solely through political or military means but requires the active participation of religious communities in promoting reconciliation, mutual understanding, and respect for the dignity of every human being.
Representatives of the Maha Vihara Temple emphasized that the Buddhist principles of Ahiṃsā (non-violence), Karunā (compassion), and Mettā (loving-kindness) constitute fundamental ethical values capable of inspiring cooperation among peoples and preventing hatred, discrimination, and conflict.
The dialogue also examined Malaysia's unique religious and cultural diversity. While the country has a Muslim majority, it is also home to long-established Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Taoist, and Sikh communities. During the discussions, attention was drawn to the importance of ensuring that all religious communities receive equal recognition and protection within society, preserving their individual identities while strengthening national unity.
Particular appreciation was expressed for the work carried out by the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST), established to promote cooperation among Malaysia's major non-Muslim religious communities and to safeguard religious freedom and constitutional rights. The Council is currently chaired by Most Reverend Monsignor Julian Leow Beng Kim, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, whose commitment to interreligious dialogue has received broad international recognition.
A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to the serious challenge posed by human trafficking, recognized as one of the most urgent humanitarian issues affecting Southeast Asia. The participants discussed concerns related to forced labour, exploitation of migrant workers, trafficking of women and children, and the growing phenomenon of transnational cyber-scam operations targeting vulnerable individuals.
The discussion emphasized the importance of strengthening international cooperation, supporting victims, combating corruption, and encouraging coordinated action among governments, civil society, and religious institutions in accordance with international human rights standards.
Looking toward future cooperation, Mr. Hemadasa expressed his intention to further strengthen relations with the World Organization of States by supporting initiatives dedicated to peacebuilding, interreligious dialogue, and the promotion of fundamental human rights. During the meeting, the possibility of organizing a future institutional event involving national authorities and representatives of the country's principal religious communities was also discussed. In this context, Father Marco Baragli would be invited to participate as a representative of WOS-IPSP.
The Temple leadership also expressed its interest in establishing a structured collaboration with WOS-IPSP to expand initiatives promoting dialogue among religions and international cooperation in the field of human rights.
The meeting concluded with the shared conviction that lasting peace can only be achieved through cooperation among institutions, religious communities, and civil society, founded upon mutual respect, solidarity, and the universal dignity of every person.
Statement by the Secretary-General
Following the meeting, H.E. Amb. Alfredo Maiolese, Secretary-General of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), stated:
"Interreligious dialogue is not simply an exchange between faiths; it is a concrete instrument of preventive diplomacy capable of reducing tensions, protecting fundamental freedoms, and fostering peaceful coexistence among peoples. WOS-IPSP welcomes the constructive dialogue held in Kuala Lumpur and appreciates the willingness expressed by the Maha Vihara Buddhist Temple to work together in promoting peace, human rights, and international cooperation. Building bridges among cultures and religions is one of the strongest foundations for preventing future conflicts and strengthening global stability."
The World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization, reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote dialogue, mediation, respect for religious freedom, and the peaceful resolution of disputes through cooperation among institutions, governments, and faith communities worldwide.
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