The air was filled with solemnity and joy as the main hall of the Vihara, its surrounding grounds, and the Wisma DBU building swelled with attendees. Devotees from across Malaysia and overseas gathered to witness the rare and auspicious milestone, with many arriving by chartered bus and some traveling from abroad specifically for the event.


A Ceremony of Harmony and Blessings

In a beautiful display of Buddhist unity, the inauguration ceremony incorporated chanting traditions from both the Theravada and Mahayana schools. Led by the venerable Sangha from Dharma Light Monastery, the assembly participated in sacred chanting, blessing, and purification rites. The air resonated with the sincere recitation of prayers and the Great Compassion Mantra, as monastics circled the main building in a solemn procession.

The purification blessings were offered with the deep aspiration that the Vihara would serve as a lasting spiritual refuge for the local community, allowing the Dharma to flourish for generations to come.

Ahead of the formal proceedings, the atmosphere was one of profound reverence as devotees patiently waited, holding offering vases. With utmost sincerity, they presented the vases and gemstones before the Buddha, a tangible expression of their deepest devotion and prayers.


Officiating the Vision

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was officiated by a distinguished line-up of guests, marking the formal opening of the spiritual and educational complex. Officiators included YB Ng Sze Han, Member of the Selangor State Executive Council and Legislative Assembly for Kinrara; Venerable Saranankara; and the revered Sangha from Dharma Light Monastery.

Joining them to witness the historic occasion were a host of dignitaries, Buddhist leaders, and representatives from various organizations. Notable attendees included:

YB Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin (杨顺兴), Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia, Chairman of the Penang Port Commission, and Honorary Consul of Mexico in Penang.

Dr. Pornchai, President of the World Alliance of Buddhists.
Venerable Pu Zhuang, Abbot of Hong Kong Lotus Temple
Dato Teng Chang Khim (邓章钦)
Dato Fu Ah Kiow (胡亚桥)
Dato Tommy Ang (洪泰真)
YB Wayne Ong Chun Wei (王俊伟)
Dato’ Yew Boon Lye (杨文来)
Chan Chun Kuang (陈俊广)

Along with numerous other overseas guests, Buddhist organization representatives, and association leaders.


A Blessing of "Good News"

In his address, YB Ng Sze Han, who officiated the ceremony, brought more than just his blessings. He also delivered two pieces of encouraging "good news" for the temple community, signaling strong support for the institution's future.


A Future Rooted in Education and Practice



With the inauguration complete, the focus now shifts to the mission ahead. The Sugata Dharma Vihara management has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the four foundational principles of Dharma Light Monastery:

1. Implementing Buddhist teachings in daily life;
2. Enhancing the spirit of dedication through education and culture;
3. Creating a harmonious society through compassion; and
4. Purifying the mind through wisdom.

Central to this vision is the establishment of the Dharma Buddhist University (DBU) in Malaysia. Leaders expressed their deep aspiration to see the university take root, instilling Buddhist values in people's hearts and encouraging a culture of lifelong learning and continuous practice for the benefit of all.