• Second Global Peace & Understanding Seminar held on 23-24 February 2017 at SMU
• Wee Kim Wee Gold Award presented to Dr Daisaku Ikeda
• Diverse speakers, research and cultural presentations created deeper understanding of peace and increased interfaith dialogue

The Wee Kim Wee Centre (WKWC) held the Second Wee Kim Wee-Soka International Seminar on Global Peace & Understanding on 23 and 24 February 2017 at the Singapore Management University (SMU).

Scholars and thinkers from around the world presented their views from many different perspectives on this important issue. Over ten international speakers coming from various fields of study and diverse religious faiths in Asia Pacific, USA and Europe shared insights through presentations and interactions with the audience. Special cultural performances and presentations across music, art and film genres further enriched the learning experience of over 150 participants from various backgrounds across different academic and religious institutions.

The two-day event was part of a five-year seminar series co-sponsored by the Singapore Soka Association (SSA). The series is aimed at creating a deeper understanding of peace, increasing interfaith dialogue and augmenting research and collaborations in related topics.

This year’s event highlight was the Wee Kim Wee Gold Award Presentation to Dr Daisaku Ikeda, President of the Soka Gakkai International, for his universal message of peace and hope. The award recognises an individual whose significant contributions far transcend the confines of nationality or faith and make a global impact. Dr Ikeda is the first recipient of this award.

In his peace proposal, Dr Ikeda, whose thoughts and philosophy ground this Series, highlights how opening up the inner capacities of our lives can bring forth the limitless possibilities of each individual. He believes in empowering individuals to resolve global issues and achieve lasting peace. The Japanese word “soka” means “value creation”.

It is hoped that this international seminar on global peace and understanding will inspire and motivate change in our communities. The partnership underscores the common goal shared by SMU, WKWC and SSA – promoting deeper understanding of the impact of cultural diversity in the society.

[Photo: Mr Michael Yap, Chairman, Soka Singapore speaking during his opening remarks.]

[Photos: Participants in the first day of the seminar.]

[Photos: SMU alumnus Sanva Saephan sharing at the seminar.]

[Photo: One of the presenters, Mr Kimball Gallagher, a pianist from USA, at the seminar.]

[Featured photo: (Holding award) Associate Professor Kirpal Singh, Director, Wee Kim Wee Centre, SMU presenting the Wee Kim Wee Gold Award for Dr Daisaku Ikeda, to Mr Michael Yap, Chairman, Singapore Soka Association (SSA). They were flanked by Mr Tay Eng Kiat, General Director, SSA (second from right), Mr Oh Keng Yam, Vice Chairman, SSA (extreme left) and Mr Bobby Tan, Honorary Secretary, SSA.]