Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Yayasan Belia Buddhist Malaysia Chairman Dato' Ir. Ang Choo Hong emphasised that the Centre represents far more than a physical structure.

"This is not merely the completion of a building; it is the realisation of a significant undertaking to nurture the next generation of Buddhist leaders. It is not only an achievement for today, but also an investment in the future," Dato' Ir. Ang told the gathering of supporters, monastics, and young Buddhists.


A Vision Rooted in History

The Chairman traced the inspiration for the Centre back to the Buddhist revival movement in China, noting how visionary figures like Yang Renshan (杨仁山; 1837-1911) and Venerable Master Taixu (太虛; 1890–1947) had transformed Buddhism through education and youth engagement. He particularly highlighted the teachings of Venerable Yin Shun (印順導師; 1906 - 2005), who identified the "era of youth" as one of the defining characteristics of our time.

"Venerable Yin Shun pointed out that if Buddhism is to respond to the spirit of the age, it must place greater emphasis on attracting and nurturing young people, while cultivating an even stronger spirit of benefiting others," Dato' Ir. Ang explained.

He also drew attention to the timeless words of Venerable Master Hsing Yun (星雲大師; 1927 - 2003): "Young people need Buddhism, and Buddhism needs young people."


From Humble Beginnings

When Bodhi Park was first developed in 2009, the founders' vision from the very beginning was to build a Youth Training Centre rather than a conventional Buddhist temple. However, demand quickly outstripped expectations.

After the site opened in 2011, Buddhist societies from universities and colleges across Malaysia flocked to hold their activities there, making it the preferred venue for campus Buddhist organisations. International groups also began to take notice.

Despite hosting approximately twenty-five camps, courses, and retreats annually, the Centre faced a critical challenge: severe accommodation shortages. For years, participants had to sleep in the Main Shrine Hall and lecture halls after daily activities, a situation the Chairman described as "neither ideal nor befitting the dignity of a Buddhist training environment."

Temporary dormitories were later added, but after more than a decade of use—and with maintenance hindered during the pandemic, these structures became heavily infested with termites and could no longer be used.


A Multi-Million Ringgit Undertaking

The new four-storey Youth Development Centre was constructed at a cost of approximately RM5.6 million, with the total project cost reaching about RM7 million. Construction officially began on 11 July 2023.

While the Yayasan had only RM1.3 million in its building fund when construction commenced, generous donors have since contributed RM4.6 million. The Foundation is now appealing for an additional RM1 million to settle outstanding payments to the contractor.

"Fortunately, compassionate Bodhisattvas in human form came forward to support this worthy undertaking," Dato' Ir. Ang expressed gratefully. "We believe that with your generosity we will be able to settle this payment soon."


Young People: The Driving Force of Buddhism

Throughout his speech, the Chairman underscored the vital role of youth in Buddhist history, citing examples from the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, who renounced worldly life at twenty-nine and attained enlightenment at thirty-five, to Master Xuanzang (玄奘; 602-664 CE), who journeyed westward to India at twenty-seven.

"Young people possess energy, idealism, and vitality. They are the driving force behind the continued progress of Buddhism," he affirmed.

He also reminded the audience that great achievements in youth are built upon years of careful cultivation and training. The Buddha himself had mastered languages, philosophy, mathematics, leadership, and martial arts before leaving home. Master Xuanzang became a novice at thirteen and studied diligently for years before teaching.


A Book of Transformation

Each attendee received a book containing the life stories of sixty-one Malaysian university students whose lives were transformed through Buddhism. Many of these individuals have since become monastics, Dharma teachers, educators, writers, and researchers, each contributing to the growth of Buddhism in their respective fields.

"This clearly demonstrates that nurturing young people is one of the most important tasks in the development of Buddhism," Dato' Ir. Ang stated.


Looking Ahead

The Chairman expressed his firm belief that the new Centre will become:

- a cradle for nurturing future Buddhist talents,
- a foundation for advancing Humanistic Buddhism, and
- an important platform for benefiting society and serving the wider community.

"We firmly believe that many more young people will come here to study the Dharma, develop their abilities, cultivate strong moral character, and grow in wisdom," he declared. "From this place, many dedicated individuals will go forth to serve society, benefit all beings, and carry forward the Buddha's wisdom for generations to come."

The ceremony concluded with Dato' Ir. Ang extending gratitude to all Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Dharma Protectors, and supporters for their compassion and generosity, before inviting all present to embrace the shared mission: "Nurturing Young Minds, Creating the Future."