Saturday, September 02, 2006

Chief Reverend

Indeed, life is transient.

Chief High Priest of Malaysia & Singapore, Venerable Dr. K. Sri. Dhammananda, passed away on Merdeka Day 2006, leaving behind a legacy of Dhammadutta works in Malaysia and around the world.

I shall fondly remember my several encounter with the Chief while working on Buddhist publication projects during my university's years. Publications is always an important means to spread the Buddha's Dispensation, and is ever emphasised by the Chief.

There is a famous picture of Chief Reverend reading a newspaper with the headline of "Merdeka" at Merdeka Stadium on 31 August 1957. That picture has since become a powerful tool to demonstrate our Buddhist community and Sangha's strong commitment toward our nation's aspiration.

More pictures on Chief's funeral in Screenshots.

UPDATE

After a few days of futile searching, this precious photograph finally shown up in blogosphere. It had been posted in Screenshots and OonYeoh. I wonder why it was not highlighted in the mainstream media. The picture perfectly sent its message across to its readers. Look at the background, Caucasian with ethnics Malayans, and the headline of the newspaper. Now, I call this Spirit of Malaysia. Buddhists, or non-Buddhists alike, we all share the same national aspirations. Think as One, Act as One. Our love for the country is transcendental.