Devotees of the Than Hsiang Temple celebrated Wesak Day not only by offering flowers, fruits, lighted candles or prayers but also by observing a nine-day vegetarian week which commenced on 12th May. On 21st May all merits accrued from this meritorious act will be transferred to SARS sufferers all over the world after the morning prayers. To facilitate the observation of the vegetarian week all food served in the canteen from 12th to 20th May were served on a pay as you like basis.

Despite of the SARS situation devotees came by the hundreds to the temple on Wesak Day to offer flowers, fruits and lighted candles as well as participate in the chanting and bathing of the Buddha ceremony. The ceremony was held in the Main Shrine Hall at the sixth floor. After the meal-offering prayers the abbot, Ven. Wei Wu gave a dharma talk. This was followed by a vegetarian lunch. About four thousand lunch boxes were given away to each and everyone who visited the temple.

In the afternoon at 1.00 p.m., a refuge taking ceremony was held. The celebration ended with 2 busload of devotees leaving at 4.00 p.m. for the Chinese Recreation Club field opposite the Malaysian Buddhist Association to participate in the Wesak Day procession.

In view of the current global turmoil and the rampaging attack of the deadly disease, SARS, the Wesak Day celebration for this year holds a significant meaning. We hope that the virtues of the Buddha shall benefit everybody, and by following His teachings we shall braced ourselves to faces the challenge with wisdom and compassion. Faith alone is not enough to save oneself, but only by practicing the true teachings of the Lord Buddha, shall one see the truth of the nature. By cultivating wisdom and compassion, we shall prevail on this earth.