Hundreds participate in Wesak Day procession

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KUCHING: Hundreds of mostly Buddhist devotees took part in a procession to celebrate Wesak Day here last night.

Wesak Day, a public holiday, celebrates the three momentous events in Gauthama Buddha’s life: his birth, enlightenment and departure from the human world.

The procession from the Jubilee Ground here passed through major streets in the city including Padungan and Wayang Street.

Devotees carried religious memorabilia that included replicas of the lotus plant and flower.

The attractively decorated floats drew many visitors and curious onlookers.

In Sarawak such religious processions are annual events.

Last night’s procession was organised by Sarawak Buddhist Association which held another grand celebration earlier in the day, officiated by Minister for Local Government and Housing Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian at the temple at Jalan Wan Alwi.

Devotees left their homes in the early morning to say special prayers at temples.