The final session of the “Silent Radiance of Unity – Macao in Harmony” Multicultural Salon, jointly organized by the Centre for Macau Studies (CMS) of the University of Macau (UM) and the Buddhist Association of Macau, Macao Taoist Association, The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Macau, Macao Catholic Culture Association, Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Missionary Area of Macau, and the Macau Islamic Cultural Exchange Promotion Association, was held at noon on 25 March at the UM Cultural Building, marking the conclusion of the salon series. The session, themed “Judaism, Hinduism, and Macao Society and Culture,” featured Prof. Hari Venkatesan (Hinduism) and Prof. Glenn Timmermans (Judaism) from UM as keynote speakers. Drawing on perspectives from belief traditions, daily practices, and youth development, the speakers discussed the contemporary relevance of two ancient religious and cultural traditions within Macao’s diverse social context.
Both speakers reflected on their years of living and teaching in Macao, noting that as a long-standing meeting point of Eastern and Western cultures, the city has developed an inclusive social environment that supports coexistence among people of different religious and cultural backgrounds. Everyday interactions and cross-cultural exchanges were highlighted as important foundations of Macao’s tradition of diversity and social integration.
In the discussion, Prof. Venkatesan introduced the Hindu concept emphasizing the interconnectedness and holistic nature of humanity, explaining that such a worldview influences how individuals understand social relationships and collective responsibility. He remarked that this perspective, manifested through cultural practices and everyday life, encourages openness and inclusiveness in multicultural environments, contributing to social harmony. Prof. Timmermans, meanwhile, shared insights from Jewish culture regarding the importance of family, education, and the continuity of cultural traditions. He noted that while different communities maintain distinct identities, mutual understanding requires openness and the avoidance of prejudice, particularly in an era of globalization and increasing social diversity. He emphasized the role of continuous learning and rational dialogue in fostering cultural understanding among younger generations.
The dialogue also touched upon cultural practices such as festivals and dietary traditions. The speakers observed that while such practices may present challenges of adaptation in diverse societies, they also provide concrete opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and communication, serving as practical entry points for understanding others. In discussing Macao’s future development, both speakers agreed that sustained dialogue, institutional inclusiveness, and youth engagement are key factors in maintaining social stability and promoting long-term development in a multicultural city.
In her concluding remarks, Prof. Lam Iok Fong, Director of CMS, noted that the salon series, through the exchange of experiences and perspectives across different religious and cultural traditions, has enhanced public understanding and mutual respect. She emphasized that the series also highlighted Macao’s inclusiveness and potential as a multicultural city, laying a solid foundation for future interfaith dialogue and social cohesion.
