HWPL's programme in Kuching highlights unity through ‘steps of peace' movement
The participants make their way to the bridge from the starting point at the Kuching Waterfront Amphitheatre.
KUCHING (May 30): Over 200 participants gathered at the Waterfront Amphitheatre here recently for the 'Steps of Peace: Peace for Unity Walk', organised by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) in collaboration with the i-CATS University College (I-CATS).
The event was held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace.
It brought together youth leaders, students, local politicians, educators, and members of civil societies.
In his speech for the opening ceremony, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang highlighted the importance of civic unity and thus, he lauded any initiative aimed at fostering a culture of peace.
'Peace is not just about preventing conflicts; peace is about promoting connection.
'It is about choosing empathy over ego. It's about building bridges instead of walls,' he called upon those participating.
Moreover, Lo also emphasised that peace must begin at the individual level.
'It doesn't begin on the international stage; rather, it's right here with each of us in the way that we treat our neighbours, how we speak to one another, and how we listen with care.'
Following a simple flag-off, the participants made their way along the waterfront, heading to the iconic Darul Hana Bridge, which the HWPL hailed as an apt symbol of unity among Sarawak's diverse communities.
The atmosphere was both celebratory and reflective, with cultural performances and interactive peace-building activities included that encouraged meaningful participation and connection among those joining the peace walk.
Lo (second right) leads the contingent for the walk along the Darul Hana Bridge.
When met by The Borneo Post after the walk, Loretta Cheremai Kong, a teacher from SK Pudu, shared her reflections.
'Malaysia is a peaceful country – we don't encounter war or guns.
'So I think this world peace movement is a really good step to spread peace to other parts of the world.
'One thing that we can improve is to not focus on our differences; rather, we should look at what unites us to promote peace.
'Even though we come from different cultures and beliefs, this shows that we can move forward together toward a better future.'
As the co-host of the event, ICATS brought in its students who actively took part in the accompanying activities.
The deputy vice chancellor (industry and community engagement) Prof Leo Sing Lim hailed the peace walk as 'a very meaningful platform', especially in view of Kuching being known as a 'city of unity'.
'We walk for unity, and we show the community that unity is very important.
'Events like this raise awareness and remind us that peace and harmony must be continuously nurtured through education and collaboration.'
The Kuching event was part of a worldwide initiative led by the HWPL to commemorate the Declaration of World Peace.
For this year, the movement has reached 94 locations across 61 countries, drawing participation from over 1,600 public figures and 10,000 global citizens.
Some participants carry the batik banner, spanning six feet (over 180cm) in length, which was especially made for the peace walk.
Originally proclaimed in Seoul, South Korea, on May 25, 2013, by HWPL chairman Man Hee Lee, the Declaration of World Peace calls for global cooperation to end war and promote peace.
Since then, annual peace walks have been taking place across continents to raise awareness and inspire action.
At the previous 10th anniversary of the Declaration, Lee stated that after 'declaring peace on Earth to achieve it together', he travelled around the world for the advocacy of peace.
'I called for peace to be taught at home and in school, and for everyone to become a messenger of peace.
'We need to be united under the title of peace and work together to create a better world and leave it as a legacy for future generations.
'This is our mission in the times we live in.'
The participants gather for a group photo, with the State Legislative Assembly Complex in the background.
This year's global commemorations include peace education programmes, interfaith dialogues, and grassroots community initiatives – all aimed at cultivating in those involved – and hopefully, everyone – civic responsibility and mutual understanding.
'The movement continues to advocate for sustainable peace through youth and women's empowerment, international cooperation, and legal instruments such as the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW),' said HWPL in an issued statement. Declaration of World Peace Kuching lead Peace for Unity Walk
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