ASIA Records is proud to officially recognise Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si for achieving:
First and Largest Jade-Inlaid Relief Wall Mural Depicting the Propagation of Humanistic Buddhism
(355.74 m² measuring 36.3 m long and 9.8 m high, 420 sculpted figures across three thematic zones, completed 2018)
Located within the Main Shrine Hall of Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, the monumental jade-inlaid relief mural brings together Buddhist teachings, artistic craftsmanship and the development of Humanistic Buddhism within one expansive visual narrative.
Covering 355.74 m², the artwork stands as a significant expression of Buddhist art and cultural heritage, documenting the propagation and practical application of Humanistic Buddhism through hundreds of sculpted figures and scenes.
An Expansive Visual Narrative of Humanistic Buddhism
Known as the “Illustration of the Propagation of Humanistic Buddhism” (人间佛教行化图), the mural measures 36.3 metres long and 9.8 metres high and forms a defining artistic feature of Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si’s Main Shrine Hall.
Its composition incorporates 420 sculpted figures across three thematic zones, bringing together Buddhist imagery, historical figures and scenes representing different periods and dimensions of Humanistic Buddhism.
The visual narrative encompasses Buddhist worlds, Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, disciples and other figures, while portraying the practical application of Humanistic Buddhism through education, Dharma propagation, environmental advocacy, disaster relief and service to society.
The mural also incorporates the hibiscus, Malaysia’s national flower, embedding an element of Malaysian identity within the wider Buddhist artistic composition.
Two Years of Craftsmanship in Natural Coloured Jade
The mural’s scale is matched by the complexity of its construction.
More than 20 varieties of natural coloured jade were used throughout the artwork, with different colours and textures contributing to its figures, architectural details, landscapes and symbolic elements.
Weighing approximately 42 metric tonnes, the work underwent an extensive production process that included hand-drawn design, computer modelling, mould creation, rough and detailed carving, decoration, polishing and assembly.
The project required approximately two years of craftsmanship, with dozens of craftspeople contributing to its production before the mural was completed in 2018.
The result brings traditional jade artistry together with a large-scale contemporary interpretation of Buddhist teachings and Humanistic Buddhist practice.
Art as a Medium for Culture, Education and Faith
Beyond its physical dimensions, the mural was conceived as a visual expression of the principles of Humanistic Buddhism advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun.
Its imagery reflects Fo Guang Shan’s four major objectives: promoting Buddhism through culture, fostering talent through education, benefiting society through charity, and purifying the human mind through spiritual practice.
These principles are represented not only through traditional Buddhist imagery but also through scenes depicting education, environmental advocacy, charitable activities and social service.
Within Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si, the mural forms part of a wider environment dedicated to faith, education, cultural exchange, meditation and community engagement, allowing visitors to encounter Humanistic Buddhism through both spiritual practice and visual culture.
A Milestone Moment of Recognition
ASIA Records recognition was officially presented on 26 September 2026 at Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si, Johor Bahru, Malaysia, during the temple’s Mid-Autumn Festival celebration.
The recognition was received on stage by Venerable Ru Bin, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan (Malaysia) Hsingma Si; Chew Chin Boon and Lee Lay Fong, Vice Presidents of BLIA Malaysia South Chapter; Yong Peng Kong, Elder Advisor of BLIA Malaysia South Chapter; and Chu Siew Fong, representing the leadership, community support, and cultural stewardship behind Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si’s continued efforts to preserve and promote Humanistic Buddhism and Buddhist art.
The presentation was witnessed by YB Ling Tian Soon, Johor State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Health and Environment.
Voices of Leadership
Reflecting on the milestone, Venerable Ru Bin, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan (Malaysia) Hsingma Si, shared:
“The establishment and development of Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si has been made possible through the collective efforts of many people and the support of devotees and the wider community. Receiving this recognition is therefore a meaningful acknowledgement of that shared journey.
The Illustration of the Propagation of Humanistic Buddhism allows Buddhist teachings to be communicated through art and culture. We hope everyone who sees the mural can not only appreciate its craftsmanship, but also understand the values of education, compassion, service and Humanistic Buddhism that it represents.”
Sharing Johor’s Cultural Heritage with a Wider Audience
YB Ling Tian Soon, Johor State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Health and Environment, who witnessed the recognition, shared:
“Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si serves not only as a religious site but also as a place where culture is promoted and shared with the community. The recognition of this remarkable jade mural gives Johor another distinctive cultural feature that can be introduced to visitors.
We look forward to creating greater awareness of Hsingma Si among local and international visitors and encouraging more people to experience the cultural diversity and attractions that Johor has to offer.”
Celebrating Buddhist Art and Living Cultural Heritage
The recognition reflects more than the mural’s exceptional dimensions. It documents how religious art, traditional jade craftsmanship, education and cultural storytelling can come together within a single monumental work.
Through its 420 figures and extensive visual narrative, the mural preserves Buddhist imagery while illustrating the continuing development and practice of Humanistic Buddhism in contemporary society.
Its presence at Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si provides visitors from Malaysia, neighbouring Singapore and beyond with an opportunity to encounter this tradition through an artwork that connects Buddhist philosophy with craftsmanship, culture and community life.
About Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si
Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si is a Buddhist cultural, educational and spiritual centre in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, serving communities across Southern Malaysia and Singapore.
Its development grew from Fo Guang Shan’s activities in Johor Bahru beginning in the 1990s. Following years of planning, construction of the present temple officially commenced in 2014, before Venerable Master Hsing Yun formally named it “Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si” in June 2015.
The temple was developed as a multifunctional centre encompassing Buddhist faith, education, culture and spiritual practice, with facilities including its Main Shrine Hall, classrooms, art and cultural spaces, library and meditation facilities.
Through education, exhibitions, cultural programmes, community activities and Buddhist practice, Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si continues to provide a platform for the development and sharing of Humanistic Buddhism in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
For more information, visit:
https://fgs.hsingmasi.org/hsingmasi/
