The journey from Thailand to Magelang is approximately 2,600 kilometers with approximately 3 months.
Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo, while attending a health social service in the Vesak series on the way from Semarang, had witnessed the group of monks resting in one of the mushalas.
“I am proud, touched, there are many people on the side of the road, apparently they are waiting for the monks who are walking. They walked and thank God the public response was extraordinary. It was accompanied by mass organizations, TNI, Polri, and food was provided. And, it was an interesting sight (when) they took a break at the mosque,” he said on Wednesday (5/310).
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This shows a beautiful scene, which illustrates how good interfaith and human relations are.
A resident of Getasan, Semarang Regency, Ita Sri utami (41), who was unable to welcome the thudong monks in Ambarawa, came to Magelang City with her family and brought several bottles of drinks to give to the monks.
“We took the time to welcome the monk because we couldn’t come to Ambarawa yesterday. This is a blessing, good karma, we can meet thudong monks who may not have this kind of event in our lifetime,” he said.
When they rested in the Liong Hok Bio temple complex, dozens of therapists who are members of the Indonesian Traditional Healers Association (PPTI) were prepared. They voluntarily provide therapy to monks who have traveled far.
PPTI members are not only from Magelang City, but also from outside the city, such as Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Semarang, who joined in the framework of social service.
“Our activity is to help treat monks and companions who have traveled far. In the massage, we use alcohol and olive oil,” said PPTI Coordinator Hendri Kauman.
Thudong participant Monk Kantadhammo was very impressed with the extraordinary welcome from the people in Magelang City.
