How is the International Day of Yoga Celebrated Across Southeast Asia?
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Synopsis
The 11th International Day of Yoga saw a remarkable turnout across Southeast Asia, with thousands joining events in Malaysia, Laos, and the Philippines. This year's theme, 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health,' highlighted yoga's role in connecting humanity with nature, emphasizing the need for balance in modern life.
Key Takeaways
- Over 1200 participants celebrated IDY in Malaysia.
- The theme focused on connection with nature.
- Yoga is now legally recognized as a sport in Malaysia.
- Significant participation from Indian Armed Forces in celebrations.
- Events highlighted yoga's role in promoting peace and wellness.
Kuala Lumpur, June 21 (NationPress) Thousands of yoga enthusiasts from various Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, Laos, and the Philippines, took part in numerous events to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on Saturday.
Highlighting the unifying and healing essence of yoga, over 1200 participants gathered for the IDY celebration in Malaysia at the renowned Batu Caves Complex in Kuala Lumpur.
High Commissioners, Ambassadors, members of diplomatic missions, senior government officials, NGOs, community members, cultural and yoga associations, as well as school children and individuals of all ages were present at the event.
Furthermore, 50 officers from the Indian Armed Forces and crew from the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Karmuk, which visited Malaysia to honor the 11th IDY, participated in the yoga session at Batu Caves.
This year's IDY theme, "Yoga for One Earth, One Health", emphasizes how yoga connects humanity with nature.
Nagulendran Kangayatkarasu, Secretary General of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Malaysia, served as the chief guest for the 11th IDY celebration.
While addressing the audience, Kangayatkarasu noted that this year's theme, "Yoga for One World, One Health", is highly relevant to today's global challenges, which require people to find a balance between healthy living and mental well-being.
Kangayatkarasu also mentioned that the Malaysian government has recognized yoga as a sport under parliamentary legislation, praising the efforts of the Indian High Commission and the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Indian Cultural Centre in promoting yoga in schools, universities, and the broader community.
B N Reddy, India's High Commissioner to Malaysia, welcomed the yoga enthusiasts and elaborated on the significance of yoga in light of this year's theme, focusing on its transformative capacity to improve individual well-being and contribute to a healthier society.
The Indian High Commissioner referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement, "Yoga will change the way you live your life", and highlighted PM Modi's inspiring call for people worldwide to adopt yoga for holistic well-being and vibrant living.
In Laos, over 1,000 yoga enthusiasts gathered in the capital, Vientiane, to commemorate the IDY. The Indian Ambassador to Laos, Yogeshwar Sangwan, emphasized yoga's role in promoting peace and wellness.
The event featured Vilavanh Bounsoukhtay, Director General of the Ministry of Education and Sports in Laos, as the Chief Guest, who was joined by representatives from Tourism Laos, Cosmopolitan Laos, and Miss Universe Laos.
In the Philippines, more than 300 yoga practitioners and enthusiasts attended the IDY celebration, participating in the Common Yoga Protocol Session at the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta - Sports Complex in Las Pinas City. The session included yoga postures, pranayama, and meditation.
This event, organized by the Indian Embassy in Manila, saw the presence of Harsh Kumar Jain, the Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, and Aranud Peral, UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines, along with Ma. Teresa C. Inigo, Director General of the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care, Anthony Jose Tamayo, President of the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, and Maxene Magalona, a Filipina actress and yoga instructor.
Point of View
I recognize that the International Day of Yoga serves as a beacon of unity and wellness across Southeast Asia. The participation of diverse communities in these celebrations reflects a collective commitment to health and harmony, highlighting the significance of yoga in fostering global connections.
NationPress
21/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Day of Yoga?
The International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21, promoting the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga worldwide.
What was the theme for this year's International Day of Yoga?
The theme for the 11th International Day of Yoga was 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health,' emphasizing the connection between humanity and nature.
Where were the major celebrations held in Southeast Asia?
Major celebrations took place in Malaysia, Laos, and the Philippines, with thousands of participants joining various events.
Who attended the IDY celebrations in Malaysia?
The event in Malaysia was attended by diplomats, government officials, community members, and yoga practitioners of all ages.
Why is yoga recognized as a sport in Malaysia?
Yoga is recognized as a sport in Malaysia under parliamentary legislation, promoting its practice in schools and communities.
