Bangkok, Thailand—UPF in Thailand commemorated the UN International Day of Families 2019 with a conference on family values and the re-launching of the national chapter of the Interreligious Association for Peace and Development (IAPD). The event, whose theme was “The Role of Religious Teaching in Promoting Family Values in Thailand,” took place on May 29, 2019 in Bangkok, and was attended by more than 100 people, including religious leaders, civil society representatives, scholars and Ambassador for Peace.
The event began with five faith leaders—from the Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, Christian and Sikh faiths—joining in a “Water of Harmony” ceremony. Each poured water into a common vessel, symbolizing harmony and oneness of heart. Then, Gen. Dr. Terdsak Marrome (ret.), chairman of UPF-Thailand, gave the opening remarks. This was followed by a report about the development of the IAPD, by Dr. Lek Thaveetermsakul, vice president of UPF-Thailand.
The forum was moderated by Maj. Gen. Ussanee Kasemsan Na Ayutthaya, vice president of National Buddhist Organization Association of Thailand. Each of the five faith leaders spoke. Representing Buddhism was Ven. Mahasompong Sonnatajitto from Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University; Islam, Imam Santi Sue-saming, chairman of advisor of Sheikhul Islam Office of Thailand; Christianity, Rev. Dr. Suraphol Boonpratham, president of the Evangelical Fellowship of Thailand; representing Hinduism, Mr. Satit Kumar Pawa; and representing Sikhism, Rev. Amarin Piyasajjadej, teacher of Sikh Namdharee Sakat of Thailand, and Dr. Ronachit Phutthala, chief of a district in Kalasin province and a committee member of UPF- Thailand.
The participants were inspired to learn how each religion promotes family values and to see leaders of different faiths come together through the IAPD to promote peace.