Jakarta, July 24, 2026 — Strengthening the role of Buddhist communities and cultivating leadership character among the younger generation were the central themes of a gathering featuring two prominent figures in Indonesia’s Buddhist community: Prof. Philip K. Widjaja, Chairman of PERMABUDHI, and Dr. Bambang Patijaya, Chairman of Commission XII of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia (DPR-RI) and Chairman of the Central Executive Board of GEMABUDHI.
Prof. Philip K. Widjaja delivered a presentation entitled “Building a Constructive Narrative for the Indonesian Buddhist Community in Sustainable Development.”
He emphasized that Buddhist communities and organizations must move beyond administrative routines and actively respond to the needs of society. According to him, organizations should make meaningful contributions to sustainable development, environmental protection, humanitarian issues, and social life.
Prof. Philip stressed that Buddhist values should not remain confined to religious rituals and discourse but must be manifested through concrete action.
“Buddhism is not simply about talking and then ending with our own prayers.”
He also emphasized the importance of environmental and humanitarian concern as a concrete effort to reduce suffering.
“Destroying the environment means destroying ourselves,” Prof. Philip said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Bambang Patijaya delivered a presentation entitled “Building Inspiring, Empowering, and Impactful Leadership Character.”
He emphasized that leadership is not merely about holding a position or status, but about inspiring others, empowering communities, and creating meaningful contributions to society.
As Chairman of the Central Executive Board of GEMABUDHI, Bambang encouraged young Buddhists to continuously improve their capabilities, broaden their perspectives, build networks, and take an active role in various fields of service and social contribution.
“Today, we are no longer talking about legacy; we are talking about contribution,” said Bambang Patijaya.
He emphasized that people are remembered not simply because of the positions they once held, but because of the contributions they made.
“Without contribution, nothing will be remembered.”
Bambang also encouraged young Buddhists to actively engage with broader national, humanitarian, environmental, energy, and social issues.
He further reminded the younger generation not to feel inferior when taking part in public life.
“Do not feel inferior even though we are a minority,” he said.
Together, the two presentations reaffirmed the importance of building a constructive and socially engaged Buddhist community while nurturing a new generation of leaders with character, capacity, courage, and a strong sense of social responsibility.
For GEMABUDHI, strengthening the capacity and character of young people is an essential part of preparing Buddhist cadres who are able to make concrete contributions to society, the nation, and the country.
