Statement from the Buddhist Community on the Violence in Myanmar
The Buddhist Channel, Aug 21, 2012
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia -- On behalf of the concerned community of Malaysian Buddhists, we'd like to highlight the cause of the minority Rohingya people in Myanmar's Arakan province.
We have been following with deep concern and sadness on the Amnesty International (19 July 2012) report on the ongoing oppression and massacre of the Rohingyas by both the Rakhine and security forces.
The human rights violations that include physical abuse, rape, destruction of property, and unlawful killings, are urgent calls for attention for Buddhists in Malaysia as the minority Rohingya people suffer loss of lives and the extensive damage of property.
On 11th July, the Myanmar’s National Human Rights Commission reported that at least 78 people have been killed since the violence began, but unofficial estimates exceed 100; with Amnesty International reporting up to 90,000 people have been displaced.
This Open Letter is by both the Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM)and The Malaysian Network of Engaged Buddhists (MNEB), in representing the Buddhist community in Malaysia, to call for three actions:-
a. The immediate cease of all violence and all further bloodshed in Arakan, with a call to all parties involved to seriously seek resolution through peaceful, non-violent means.
b. For the Government of Myanmar, Opposition Parties to lead immediate intervening efforts to halt further violence on the people in Arakan province through the fair implementation of the democratic law.
c. For the Government of Myanmar to grant immediate access to independent and International Humanitarian Agencies and humanitarian aid workers into the affected areas to offer the necessary assistance to stop further bloodshed in and around the Arakan region.
We fervently pray that peace returns to the province of Arakan and for all to join us in this prayer.
About The Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM)
YBAM is the leading Buddhist youth organisation in Malaysia, coordinating more than 260 member organisations in the nation through 13 State Liaison Committees. It strives to unite Malaysian Buddhist youth and to develop a society of wisdom, compassion and gratitude. Visit: www.ybam.org.my
About Malaysian Network of Engaged Buddhist (MNEB)
MNEB is a network of Buddhist leaders, that encourage members to encourage activities that drives social change. MNEB Believes that social change believes must spring from deep spiritual practice and based the philosophy and practice of Kalyana Mitra (spiritual friendship). Visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/engagedbuddhists
