HWPL’s Global Peace Initiatives: Timor-Leste’s Mural Project, Interfaith Dialogue, and a Call for an End to War

In a world facing ongoing conflicts and divisions, HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light), led by Chairman Man Hee Lee, continues to advance global peace initiatives that bring communities together. From fostering interfaith dialogue to advocating for the cessation of war, HWPL’s dedication to peace is evident through various projects and statements. 

One such impactful initiative took place in Timor-Leste, where a vibrant peace mural was created to inspire unity and hope. Additionally, HWPL’s interfaith peace academy gathered religious leaders from around the world to discuss harmony and understanding, while the organization also issued a powerful call for an end to the Israel-Hamas conflict. These efforts exemplify HWPL’s unwavering commitment to building a culture of peace worldwide.

HWPL’s Peace Mural in Timor-Leste

HWPL, in collaboration with the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), carried out the Peace Mural Project in Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, from July to September 2023. The initiative aimed to promote social cohesion and tourism in the region while spreading a message of love and peace. Volunteers, including young artists and students, came together to transform an old wall into a striking mural with the theme “Love Myself, Love My Family, Love My Country, Love Peace, and Love HWPL.”

Timor-Leste, which gained independence in 2002 after years of conflict, still faces challenges in economic development and social unity. Recognizing this, HWPL and IPYG worked with the local government, youth organizations, and businesses to create a project that would not only beautify the city but also serve as a beacon of hope for its citizens.

Government officials, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Ministers of Youth, Sports, Arts, Culture, and Education, participated in the project by providing public spaces for the mural. Over 40 volunteers, including young artists from six local art groups, joined hands to complete the 54-meter-long artwork. The Vinod Patel company also contributed materials, ensuring the project's success. A local art organization leader remarked, “Peace must be nurtured like a plant—with passion and love. This mural is a perfect opportunity to spread peace in Timor-Leste.”

HWPL’s Global Interfaith Dialogue: The World Religious Peace Academy

HWPL’s commitment to fostering harmony among religions was further highlighted during the World Religious Peace Academy (IRPA) lectures, held in September 2023. The event brought together religious leaders from Sikhism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity for meaningful discussions on their faiths and the pursuit of peace.

During the conference, speakers emphasized the importance of compassion, unity, and mutual understanding. Chairman Man Hee Lee, representing Christianity, called for religious leaders to compare their scriptures and engage in open dialogue to determine which teachings truly promote peace. Other religious leaders echoed the sentiment that all faiths ultimately seek a common goal: the well-being and happiness of humanity.

One Hindu leader noted that understanding different religious perspectives helped break down misconceptions, leading to greater respect and cooperation. The event reinforced HWPL’s belief that peace among religions is essential for achieving global stability.

HWPL’s Statement on the Israel-Hamas War: A Call for Immediate Peace

In response to the Israel-Hamas war, HWPL, along with its global peace family, issued a strong statement on October 12, 2023, demanding an immediate end to the conflict. HWPL condemned the violence, emphasizing that innocent civilians are the greatest victims of war. The statement urged both sides to cease hostilities and called on the United Nations and the international community to facilitate dialogue and humanitarian aid.

HWPL reaffirmed that war brings only loss and suffering, declaring, “The hope for peace cannot be extinguished. The global community will stand together and recover.” The organization vowed to continue advocating for world peace and urged all citizens to support efforts to end violence and establish lasting harmony.

From Timor-Leste’s peace mural to international interfaith dialogues and urgent calls for ceasefire, HWPL’s efforts remain a beacon of hope in a turbulent world. By fostering unity through education, art, and religious cooperation, HWPL continues to lead the way toward a brighter, more peaceful future for all nations. The work of Chairman Man Hee Lee and HWPL reminds us that peace is not just a distant dream—it is a reality we can build together, one step at a time.