ISLAMABAD: A seminar on Sikh Heritage in Pakistan was organized by theMalaysian-Sikh community on Saturday at Asia Pacific University in KualaLumpur. The High Commissioner of Pakistan Mohammad Nafees Zakaria wasinvited as Chief Guest.
The Seminar was organized in the backdrop of the launch of a book entitledLost Heritage-the Sikh Legacy in Pakistan, the Quest Continues, written bya Singapore based investment banker-turned author Amardeep Singh.
In his presentation, Amardeep Singh illuminated the participants about therich cultural and religious heritage of Sikh community in Pakistan.
He appreciated Pakistani authorities for their warm hospitality andcomplete support by providing him logistics, security and access to theinnumerable Sikh heritage sites across Pakistan.
During his media interactions after his first book on the topic he hadreminisced fondly about warm welcome extended to him by the people ofPakistan.
Speaking at the occasion, the High Commissioner highlighted that Pakistan,with rich cultural heritage of many ancient civilizations and religions hada tolerant, hospitable, and just policy towards adherents of all faiths andreligions including Sikhs.
The Government, in consultation with Pakistani Sikh community, was takingexcellent care of 13 major Gurdwara Sahibs and constantly striving toupgrade and restore historical Sikh sites in phases. Recently, 3 majorGurdwaras have been rehabilitated in Lahore, he informed the audience.
Highlighting the Government of Pakistan’s continuous efforts to maintain,uplift and renovate and construct facilities for Sikh pilgrims, heexpressed satisfaction over the increasing number of pilgrims every year.
Last year over 70,000 Sikh pilgrims visited their sacred places inPakistan. The High Commissioner also informed the audience about the activeparticipation and contribution of the Sikh citizens to the development andprogress of Pakistan, which is appreciated.
He also identified prominent areas and professions in which Sikh communitymembers were positioned in Pakistan including the Parliament, Armed Forces,civil services, etc.
A short documentary reflecting on the religious occasions and sentiments ofthe Sikh pilgrims was also screened.
The notable of the Sikh community in Malaysia appreciated PakistanGovernment’s efforts to promote and preserve Sikh Heritage in Pakistan.
The High Commissioner gifted copies of coffee table Books entitled: “SikhHeritage of Pakistan to the representatives of the Sikh Community andGurdwaras.