Ti-Ratana Lumbini Garden Ullambana Puja 2026

In the Seventh Lunar Month, a significant period in the Buddhist calendar, Malaysian communities, particularly among Malaysian Chinese and Vietnamese groups, observe a heartfelt tradition to honor their departed loved ones. Known as the Hungry Ghost Festival in Chinese culture and Vu Lan in Vietnamese tradition, this observance involves rituals with deep cultural and spiritual significance.

During this month, it's believed that spirits of the deceased roam the Earth, seeking solace and remembrance. This belief, while widespread, contrasts with fundamental Buddhist teachings that emphasize kamma (karma) and the importance of actions over symbolic rituals. Buddhism focuses on how actions and intentions shape future experiences rather than ritual performance alone.

Families engage in practices like chanting prayers and making offerings to appease wandering spirits, aiming to generate positive kamma through generosity and ethical behavior. The sharing of merit is practiced to cultivate wholesome kamma for oneself and the community through acts…