MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, MAGELANG – Universitas Muhammadiyah Magelang (UNIMMA) showed its commitment to promoting religious tolerance and harmony by welcoming a group of Thai Bhikkhu Thudong monks on their spiritual journey to Borobudur Temple on Saturday, May 10.
The monks’ walking was part of the Vesak Day celebration. Their journey through Magelang was met with support from students of Universitas Muhammadiyah Magelang (UNIMA), who joined the procession by running alongside the monks. These students were part of the Mentari Student Activity Unit and were accompanied by members of local running communities.
Other students stood along the main entrance of UNIMMA Campus 2, waving Indonesian flags to show unity and respect. The university also handed out snacks and light supplies as a small gesture of support for the monks’ spiritual journey.
UNIMMA Rector, Lilik Andriyani, personally welcomed the monks and expressed her appreciation for their peaceful message.
“We warmly welcome the Thudong monks. Their presence brings a message of peace and teaches us about perseverance, sincerity, and respect for others,” she said.
Lilik also highlighted UNIMMA’s dedication to diversity, noting that the university is home to students from various religious, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds.
“This is more than just a friendly gesture. It’s a symbol of our support for peace and unity in Indonesia. We believe harmony between people of different faiths can grow from simple, meaningful actions like this,” she added.
The event not only created a moment of connection between different religious communities but also reinforced the importance of living together in peace and mutual respect.
UNIMMA hoped this effort would inspire more people to appreciate diversity and work together to maintain harmony in society.