[HWPL]

[HWPL] 9th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace was held Online!

To tackle the current threat of war and conflict on life and peace, HWPL’s 9th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace was held online on Wednesday (May 25).

With 3,000 representatives from politics, religion, academia, media and civil society, this event, which was held under the theme of “Institutionalizing Peace: Realizing the Collective Will for Peace”, presented the progress achieved thus far through the global effort of groups for the realization of sustainable peace that will be guaranteed by a legal instrument, according to a press release.

The host organization, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), proclaimed the Declaration of World Peace in 2013. The Declaration has secured the endorsement of national leaders, the engagement of women and youth, the cooperation of civil societies, and the expansion of media peace coverage. It was later developed into an international legal instrument, in the form of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), for the purpose of realizing global peace.

Young Min Chung, the General Director of International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), an affiliate organization of HWPL, said in his progress report, “730,000 citizens from 176 countries have signed in support of the DPCW over the past nine years, allowing them to voice their opinions in the most direct way. Recently, IPYG has been running its Youth Empowerment Peace Workshop (YEPW), where key matters are discussed, including education, human rights, and conflict prevention and resolution, and they are also carrying out joint action and making policy proposals.“

The 10 articles and 38 clauses of the DPCW include conflict prevention and resolution, gradual reduction of war potential and repurposing weapons into daily tools for humanity, promoting peaceful coexistence amongst religious and ethnic groups, and spreading a culture of peace. The Declaration is geared towards engaging governments, international organizations, NGOs, and everyday citizens to take steps for a peaceful world.

With regards to collaborating for peacebuilding, Chairman Man Hee Lee of HWPL appealed to participants to be united as “messengers of peace to bring freedom and peace to future generations.” Chairman Lee said, “This time (Russia) invaded Ukraine and started the war. This is why HWPL and our family of peace have long called for the establishment of international law to eliminate war potential. Therefore, we gathered experts in international law…and formed the Declaration with its 10 articles and 38 clauses.”

As one example of resolving conflict through peaceful means in India, MOUs were signed among religious leaders to further gain an understanding of the other's religion based on a comparative study of one's respective scriptures. In particular, the partnership between HWPL and the World Organization of Religions and Knowledge (WORK) in Rampur led to the erection of a peace monument to convey the values of peace to local citizens.

Educators’ participation in peace-related activities was also introduced during the event. Metaverse was demonstrated as a virtual global teaching platform that enables students to experience peace by reading materials and observing diverse peace activities as they are carried out in many parts of the world.

One student said, “I learned the need for an international law to achieve peace. We need a law that can achieve peace. It is important that people abide by the law and if all people become citizens of peace, we would not even need the law.”

Supalak Ganjanakhundee, Visiting Fellow at the Pridi Banomyong International College of Thammasat University, Bangkok, and former Editor of The Nation (Thailand) spoke during the peace journalist report, saying that the foundation of peace is closely related to a democracy that provides an open channel that “allows the participation of civil society” for peace. Expounding on the current deadlock of the peace process in Southern Thailand, he said, “(A)ny peace process that would lead to lasting peace must address the problem at its root cause and must be conducted along the democratization with the intensive participation of not only stakeholders but also civil society.”

HWPL has been collaborating for peace both on an international and domestic level by garnering the support of global organizations for the DPCW and working hand in hand to reinforce international norms to realize peace. With civil organizations, HWPL has been carrying out activities for the public good to ensure that peace can take root.

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] Governor of Maguindanao Confers Honorary Peace Award on HWPL Chairman Lee for "Achievements of peace as inspiration to the world”

Honorary Award conferred on Chairman Lee by the then Governor of the Islamic Autonomous Region of Maguindanao Esmael G. Mangudadatu, in recognition of Chairman Lee's global peace movement

On January 24, 2014, a monumental civilian peace treaty was signed in the province of Maguindanao, on the island of Mindanao, Philippines. After a bloody 40-year conflict, a peace agreement was reached at a senior level, bringing about a regional change for peace which no other peace agreement could resolve. This is because this civilian peace agreement, which was conceived under the strong leadership of a civil leader, instilled a "Do It” mindset in local residents.

The protagonist is Manhee Lee, Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL). After the civil agreement between the rival warring parties was made through the mediation of Chairman Lee, a mood of peace permeated the island of Mindanao. It was the then Governor Esmael G. Mangudadatu (current Member of the Philippines House of Representatives), a signatory of the agreement, who most vividly experienced HWPL's peace mission and peace culture, and the civil peace agreement mediated by Chairman Lee.

The then Governor of the Islamic Autonomous Region of Maguindanao Esmael G. Mangudadatu (right), confers an Honorary Award on Chairman Lee at the Buluan Gymnasium in Maguindanao, Mindanao, Philippines, on May 25, 2015

The then Governor of the Islamic Autonomous Region of Maguindanao Esmael G. Mangudadatu pledged to collaborate for peace with HWPL in the province following the signing of the peace agreement, through the delivery of peace education. Following the peace agreement, a desire for peace was instilled among residents newly resolved to end the bloody conflict, and Governor Mangudadatu's efforts gained further momentum.

A year later, on May 25, 2015, Governor Mangudadatu produced and conferred an Honorary Award on Chairman Lee as a token of gratitude for his peace mediation. The Award encapsulates the heart of Governor Mangudadatu for Chairman Lee. Laid out like a letter, the Honorary Award reads as follows:-

“To the Peace Advocate Chairman Lee, 

We present to you this award to honor your achievements, contributions, and the work of HWPL. We know and believe that the peace work of HWPL and the strong relationship with the Province of Maguindanao will surely transform not only the Philippines but also the entire world.”

A ceremony for the 2nd Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace is held with leaders of the Islamic and Catholic faiths, politicians, military personnel and civilians at the Buluan Gymnasium in Maguindanao, Mindanao, Philippines, on May 25, 2015

Furthermore, the Honorary Award detailed Chairman Lee's method of arbitration on January 24, 2014. According to the Honorary Award, Chairman Man-Hee Lee of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light mediated a peace treaty between the then Governor Esmael G. Mangudadatu and former Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Davao Fernando Robles Capalla.

Governor Mangudadatu said, “Through this meeting and the peace agreement, the seeds of peace have been sown in the hearts of the citizens of Maguindanao. The conflict has finally come to an end and the seeds of peace will bear fruit.”

He also emphasized, "Chairman Man-hee Lee, the messenger of peace, runs without hesitation not only to Mindanao but to all places in need of peace to promote the work of peace."

He also said, “The message of peace delivered by Chairman Man-Hee Lee inspired people around the world and changed their thoughts and perceptions of peace.” "Not only that, but it will be solid proof that it is being realized.”

A peace monument to commemorate the 2nd Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace is erected on May 25, 2015, in Maguindanao, Philippines.

January 24th marks the day the Mindanao Civil Peace Agreement in the Philippines was signed, and this day has been designated to be commemorated yearly for posterity as a reminder of the mediation of the 40-year conflict by HWPL Chairman Man-hee Lee. Locals gather to celebrate the unveiling of the Peace Monument at the 2nd Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace in Maguindanao, Philippines, on May 25, 2015.

Governor Mangudadatu said, “We would like to express our sincere gratitude, honor and respect for Man-hee Lee, the messenger of peace and his answer for world peace. Through cooperation between HWPL and the citizens of Maguindanao, I hope that the peace event in Maguindanao will inspire and motivate everyone around the world who longs for peace.”

HWPL Chairman Lee and his peace delegation participate in the ‘2nd Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace’ held on May 25, 2015 (local time) at the Buluan Gymnasium in Magindanao, Mindanao during HWPL's 18th Peace Tour. About 3,000 people, including Muslim and Catholic faith leaders, politicians, and leading military officials, participated in the event and pledged to work hard to maintain and develop peace in Mindanao. To commemorate the peace agreement, they held various events, such as the creation of a “Peace Park”, the unveiling of the “Peace Agreement Monument”, and the “Peace Walk”. In addition, by designating January 24th as 'HWPL Day' for the peace of posterity, everyone will commemorate the Day of Peace together.

As the 18th Peace Tour progressed, the peace delegation met with politicians, lawyers, soldiers, and police representatives in Manila, Maguindanao, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao for 5 days and 4 nights from May 22nd to contribute towards the peace movement of HWPL. They urged for their full participation in a schedule that included a Women's Peace Agreement ceremony.

A commemorative photo is taken of Man-Hee Lee Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (center), former Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Davao Fernando Robles Capalla (left), and the then Governor of the Islamic Autonomous Region of Maguindanao Esmael G. Mangudadatu signing for a peace agreement and world peace in January 2014. This civilian peace agreement, mediated through a Korean peace activist, led to the miracle of gifting peace to the bloodiest conflict in Asia

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] Appreciation Plaque awarded from the IWPG Johor Peace Committee (Malaysia) to Chairman of HWPL: “Together for Peace as Messenger of Peace”

Chairwoman Sow Pheng Woo delivers an appreciation plaque to Chairman Lee following the IWPG Network Forum held at the HWPL Peace Institute in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi province on September 19, 2017

No mother wants to lose her child to war. This is why women and mothers have been turning to Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), which is a private NGO that has produced and propagated the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) as a solution for peace under the mantra, “Let’s create a world of peace, without war, as a legacy for future generations”. These women have been leading a peace movement through voluntary participation in International Women's Peace Group (IWPG), an affiliate organization of HWPL, because they accept that the DPCW should be enshrined in international law by the UN in order to protect children from war. For this reason, IWPG members around the world are urging people of all walks of life to support the enactment of the DPCW as international law.

On March 14, 2016, IWPG Johor Peace Committee (Malaysia) Chairwoman Sow Pheng Woo attended the proclamation of the DPCW by HWPL Chairman Man-hee Lee in person. She believed that the DPCW proposed by Chairman Lee can cease wars and achieve a world of peace, so she has actively supported the DPCW since then. She particularly resonated with HWPL Chairman Lee's message, 'Let's leave peace as a legacy for future generations'.

Chairman Man-hee Lee (top right) smiles during a lecture delivered for the IWPG Network Forum, held during the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, at the InterContinental Grand Seoul Parnas on September 19, 2017

Sow Pheng Woo, who had been working with HWPL as the chairperson of the IWPG Johor Peace Committee (Malaysia) for over a year, visited Korea to attend the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit in September 2017. Chairwoman Woo delivered a commemorative plaque of appreciation, which was engraved with the words, “Together for Peace as Messenger of Peace.” Concerning this appreciation plaque, Chairwoman Woo said, "It was made with gratitude for taking the lead in the work of peace and for delivering the message of peace not only to women and people in Malaysia, but also to the world."

On that day, she delivered a presentation at the IWPG Network Forum under the theme of 'Practical Examples of Urgent Action for Establishing International Law as well as the Establishment of Cooperative Governance'.

Her presentation expressed the wish for peace among women around the world. Chairwoman Woo, who was appointed as the Commissioner for the Enactment of International Law, was deeply moved by the enthusiasm and dedication of HWPL members. She reported the outcome of the peace movement in Malaysia out of her own volition.

Sow Pheng Woo, President of the International Women’s Association Johor Bahru (Malaysia's largest women's federation), delivers a speech at the IWPG Network Forum, held during the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, at the InterContinental Grand Seoul Parnas on September 19, 2017

Chairwoman Woo said, “I believe that the DPCW holds the solution to world peace. The overwhelming support all over the world, which transcends culture and religion, is evidence of this.”

She explained that, like the WARP Summit in May of that year, people from all walks of life gathered together to hold a peace festival in which 650 people attended under the guidance of the royal family and the city chairman.

In this regard, she said, "As a result, this event has elevated our region to one of peace. I plan to register an IWPG branch in Malaysia soon and collaborate with HWPL. We will carry out various activities in cooperation with government agencies and NGOs to promote the DPCW extensively for women, youth and children in Korea."

In addition to the peace events held with HWPL in her home country, Ms. Woo Sow Pheng has left her mark through numerous activities.

A guest responds with glee after receiving a dove-shaped peace letter at the IWPG Network Forum, held during the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, at the InterContinental Grand Seoul Parnas on September 19, 2017

First, on December 29, 2015, female figures gathered and opened an event to promote IWPG. On January 23, 2016, Chairwoman Wu attended the HWPL Peace Conference in Kuching, and on March 14th, she visited Korea and directly participated in the Proclamation Ceremony of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War.

Her speech left a marked impression. On the following day, she was appointed to the HWPL Advisory Board to urge for the enactment of HWPL's draft law as international law, and established a national commission within the country. In April, she hosted the DPCW Advocacy Signing Ceremony at an event organised by the International Women’s Association Johor Bahru, and on June 18th, she hosted the Johor Bahru Peace Forum. She held a Youth Peace Leadership Seminar in July, and attended the 2nd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit on September 18th in Korea. She was then appointed to the IWPG Advisory Board. Shortly after, she personally recruited members of the IWPG Peace Committee in Malaysia.

Her peace activities continued on throughout 2017. On March 25th, she hosted the Johor Peace Carnival, attended by the Johor Bahru City Council and Prince Idris Iskandar of Johor State. On May 19th, a leadership event for youth engagement was held in Johor Bahru. On September 18th, she attended the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit in Korea, where she delivered a presentation and received the HWPL Achievement Award at the IWPG Network Forum. Upon her return, she hosted celebrations of Malaysian Independence Day.

The following year, in March 2018, she delivered a speech at the ceremony of the 2nd Annual Commemoration of Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War held in Malaysia. Then, over the course of three months from April-June, IWPG booths were installed at the city council's car-free-day street event on three occasions to garner signatures in support of the DPCW. In July, she served as a bridge of communication between the personal secretary of the youth minister, the political secretary of the deputy prime minister, and the peace delegations of IPYG and HWPL. On September 18th of that year, she attended the 4th Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit.

Participants respond with applause at the IWPG Network Forum, held during the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit, at the InterContinental Grand Seoul Parnas on September 19, 2017

On June 29th 2019, IWPG hosted its '2nd International Peace-Love Drawing Competition', and on December 15th, the 'Love Peace Project' was held, with the support of the city council, to accommodate 105 guests. Since then, despite the Covid-19 pandemic, she has carried out a number of volunteer and peace activities in the region.

She attended the online IWPG International Branch Conference and virtual ceremony to commemorate the 5th Annual Commemoration of Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War on January 19th and March 14th 2021, respectively.

Meanwhile, International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) is a women's peace organization with 3.7 billion women from all over the world who transcend border, creed, race and political divide with the slogan, "Let's protect children from war with a mother's heart".

IWPG, which operates in 130 member states, is a partner organization of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), and serves as one of the two wings of HWPL. With the purpose of preventing thousands of youth from becoming victims of war, and centred on the heart and sacrifice and willing spirit of a mother and woman, they are campaigning for the enactment of an international law to end war, and are collaborating to create a world without war and of sustainable peace.

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] “Impressed by Chairman Lee’s Peace Movement”: Leader of the Anglican Church of South Africa Awards 'Lifetime Achievement Award' and Appreciation Plaque to HWPL 

Lifetime Achievement Award conferred on Chairman Lee by the South African Religious Forum and delivered by Bishop Templeton Mbekwa, in recognition of Chairman Lee's movements for peace

Appreciation plaque conferred on Chairman Lee by the South African Religious Forum, delivered by Bishop Templeton Mbekwa

Any religious leader will tell you how difficult it is to voluntarily devote one's life for the sake of the peace of humanity without receiving a penny for it. Moreover, the reality of peace can seem a distant dream when inter-religious dialogue is at loggerheads because of differing doctrine and beliefs. For this reason, it is also a fact that many faith leaders have made efforts to attain peace, but have not yielded tangible results.

That is why faith leaders, who seek and long for inter-religious peace, keep their eyes and ears open to new ways of achieving religious peace and work accordingly to bear fruits of peace for mankind. Such individuals cannot help but be taken aback upon hearing of the accomplishments of Man-hee Lee, Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), and his peace delegation. People who meet Chairman Lee, who continues to deliver commanding messages about peace at over 90 years of age during his world peace tours, bow respectfully.

Anglican pastor and Chairperson of the South African Religious Forum Bishop Templeton Mbekwa delivers the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' and Appreciation Plaque to Chairman Man-hee Lee in person on August 13, 2018. Bishop Mbekwa also delivered Chairman Lee a gift on that day

Bishop Templeton Mbekwa, an Anglican pastor and Chairperson of the South African Religious Forum, did the same. Bishop Mbekwa recorded Chairman Lee's peace achievements onto a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' and Appreciation Plaque, which he presented to Chairman Lee in person, as an expression of gratitude.

The achievements of HWPL, from 2010 to August 2018, were listed in order on the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' as follows: ▲Proclamation of the Declaration of Unification on August 15, 2010 ▲Proclamation of the Declaration of World Peace on May 25, 2013 ▲Supervised the Mindanao Catholic-Islam Peace Agreement Ceremony and Peace Walk on January 24, 2014 ▲Hosted the WARP Summit four times, from 2014 to 2017 inclusive ▲Hosted the Proclamation Ceremony of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War on March 14, 2016 (DPCW, 10 Articles 38 Clauses) ▲ 29 World Peace Tours from 2012 to 2018. 

The 'Lifetime Achievement Award' was conferred on Chairman Lee in recognition of 5 years of service towards humanity for advocating peace and cessation of war.

The appreciation plaque delivered by Bishop Mbekwa specifically recognised Chairman Lee's 5-year service to peace from 2013-2018.

Bishop Templeton Mbekwa is a member of the Anglican Church of South Africa and is well-known as a community leader. He served as Pastor of the African National Congress in the Western Cape, and established a ministry within the ANC. Bishop Mbekwa is conducting a social reconciliation initiative under the administration of the South African government, working with global Christian organizations and youth, and spreading peace through inter-religious activities.

He came into contact with HWPL in South Africa in 2018, when he attended an HWPL conference on March 14 that year in Cape Town, followed by the anniversary of the May 25th Declaration of World Peace. Afterwards, Bishop Mbekwa persuaded officials of the South African Religious Forum to create an achievement award to be conferred on Chairman Lee on behalf of the organization. In addition, during the HWPL peace tour, about 100 religious forum representatives were introduced to HWPL, and Bishop Mbekwa continued to participate in HWPL's peace events, actively supporting Chairman Lee's peace movement. He also secured an MOU between the South African Religious Forum and HWPL.

The ‘African Leaders of Peace Summit: Interfaith Scripture Dialogue’ is in progress at The Westin Cape Town, South Africa, on August 13, 2018. At the forum, South African faith leaders presented a plaque of appreciation, achievement award and gift to Chairman Lee

On the day the Lifetime Achievement Award and Appreciation Plaque were delivered, Chairman Man-hee Lee and his peace delegation were attending the  ‘African Leaders of Peace Summit: Interfaith Scripture Dialogue' at Westin Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa, as part of the peace tour itinerary.

HWPL's WARP (World Alliance of Religions' Peace) Office is founded on the belief that the only way to end religiously-motivated conflict is to become one under trustworthy scriptures, and it operates an inter-religious Scripture Comparison dialogue, which is gaining global recognition. As of December 2020, 253 WARP offices operate in 129 countries.

Chairman Man-Hee Lee, who was a keynote speaker at the forum on that day, shared his thoughts about the peace process. Chairman Lee asserted, “Heaven is a witness to the fact that this work of peace is being carried out for the sake of humanity, and the earth is also witnessing it.” He continued with a special request, saying, “Religious leaders gathered here today: please make sure you compare your scriptures and engage in dialogue. I really hope you can become people who show grace and lead others onto the right path.”

People of faith who attended Chairman Lee's impeccable lecture responded enthusiastically. When Chairman Lee's lecture concluded, these people of faith, who filled the forum, cheered on as they all rose to their feet from their seats, raised their index fingers to the skies, smiled brightly and shouted 'WE ARE ONE'. The forum became a place of peace where the boundaries of religion were eradicated and everyone was united.

24 media outlets from 13 African countries participated in the follow-up press conference, where they reported extensively to local people. In response to a local reporter's question about the destination of HWPL's peace movement, Chairman Lee emphasized, "The only destination is the end of all wars and the achievement of peace."

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] South African Girls' High School Awards ‘Certificate of Gratitude and Recognition' to HWPL for “Spreading a Culture of Peace”

A plaque of appreciation delivered to Chairman Lee from Holy Cross (Girls) High School, in recognition of HWPL's contribution to peace education

The peace education of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), which is spreading a new culture of peace, is taking root in South African schools as an eternal legacy for future generations. Moved by HWPL's sincerity for peace, schools have signed an MOU and are conducting peace education on a trial basis.

One such school is Holy Cross (Girls) High School in Aitland, Cape Town, South Africa. On August 13, 2018, Principal at Holy Cross Michael Fouché delivered a plaque of appreciation to Chairman Man-hee Lee, in person, at the 'African Leaders of Peace Summit: Achieving Peace in Our Lifetime'.

Principal at Holy Cross (Girls') High School Michael Fouché signs an MOU with HWPL, appoints Chairman Lee as Honorary Principal, and delivers Chairman Lee a 'Certificate of Gratitude and Recognition' on August 13, 2018

Principal Fouché wrote on the Certificate of Gratitude and Recognition, “In gratitude for his outstanding contribution to creating peace value education”, and he also delivered this appreciation plaque to Chairman Lee, whom he appointed the school's Honorary Principal.

On that day, 11 South African schools, including Holy Cross (Girls') High School, signed an MOU with HWPL for peace education. In addition to Holy Cross School, other representatives in attendance were from Grosvenor Primary School, Lasersdal, Rosewood Primary School, Lizback, Boundary Primary School, Mimosa Primary School, and Arcadia Elementary School, Bontle Primary School, and Modderdam High School.

At the event, Chairman Lee delivered a speech and said, “Even in this world, empty and dark as night without love or peace, and all kinds of conflict, we believe that we can transform and make it into a world of peace through education. It would be great if we could create a new world with life-giving light, truth, and peace with thorough and beautiful education.”

“The teacher becomes a parent who has the child born again by instilling sound knowledge in his or her mind,” he said.

This message encapsulates the basic direction of peace education promoted by HWPL, transcending creed, race, ideology and border in order to establish a culture of peace for future generations. As of December 2020, 214 educational institutions in 34 countries have signed an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with HWPL for Peace Education, and it is being implemented.

HWPL Chairman Man-hee Lee (pictured above) delivers a keynote speech during the ‘African Leaders of Peace Summit: Achieving Peace in Our Lifetime' at The Westin Cape Town, South Africa, on August 13, 2018

Holy Cross (Girls') High School has been working steadily with HWPL since 2017, one year after Principal Fouché took office.

In May 2017, Principal Fouché conducted an HWPL pilot program on campus and authorised the appointment of a peace coordinator. He also arranged a staff meeting for the HWPL Peace Education team to present their vision and peace education curriculum to all staff on campus. Ms. Michelle Arendse, who was appointed as a peace educator, enabled the implementation of HWPL peace education in class.

Principal Fouché secured the participation of school peace educators at the WARP Summit in Seoul, Korea, in September 2017. In 2018, the following year, the HWPL Peace Education Team participated in a faculty development seminar and was invited to conduct a workshop on ways to implement peace education within the curriculum.

In addition, a “special peace week” was designated, focused on ways students can share and live out peace based on its values.

Furthermore, in celebration of the 5th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of World Peace held in Cape Town, South Africa, 30 students from the school participated and a banner was prepared. Then, in August, when the HWPL peace delegation visited South Africa on their 29th peace tour, Principal Fouché and peace educator Michelle Arendse held peace discussions with HWPL and proposed delivering a letter of appreciation to Chairman Lee.

A commemorative photo is taken of teachers and students of Holy Cross (Girls') High School after the 5th Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit on September 10, 2019, in Cape Town, South Africa

A culture of peace was thereafter spread in the school under Principal Fouché's full support for HWPL.

In March 2019, an HWPL pilot peace education program was held in the school, and teachers and students later participated in the May 25th commemorative event in May that year, in which one student read out a peace letter to the audience at the beginning of the event. Moreover, 116 school students wrote and sent peace letters to President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa, urging him to support the DPCW. Students participated in the IWPG Loving-Peace Art Contest held in July and received a special commendation in the final.

The school has created and nurtured a special peace garden on the school grounds. In September 2018, teachers including Michelle Arendse attended the 9.18 WARP Summit held in South Africa. The event was also broadcast live on the same day as the main event held in Korea.

Students express their support for the enactment of HWPL's DPCW as international law by handwriting letters to the president urging for his support. The DPCW aims to end war and spread a culture of peace.

In January 2020, before the school closed due to COVID-19, teachers conducted a course on peace education at the school. In June and August, educator Michelle Arendse and two staff members participated as panelists at an online webinar hosted by HWPL. In September, three faculty members attended the online event 'Peace Messengers: The Unceasing Way Forward for Sustainable Peace', hosted by HWPL South Africa. 

In February of this year, Michelle Arendse attended the Youth Empowerment Peace Workshop (YEPW) hosted by IPYG, and presented a case study on HWPL Peace Values in Africa.

Emblem of Holy Cross (Girls') High School

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] Appreciation Plaque from Member of Parliament of Malaysia:  “I was moved by Chairman Man-hee Lee’s dedication to humanity”

Peace Appreciation plaque, with national landmarks engraved on it, was presented to Chairman Lee on behalf of the Government of Malaysia by Member of Parliament Karupaiya Mutusami, in recognition of Chairman Lee's commitment to peace for humanity.

Any politician with a sincere desire for peace for the people of their country cannot turn a blind eye to the 10 Articles and 38 Clauses of the DPCW (Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War), which HWPL has drafted and propagated as a solution for ending global conflict and achieving peace. At the very least, we should look into its content, and if our thought and will is one and the same, there is no reason not to join and support it. What follows is the story of Karupaiya Mutusami, a member and Chairman of Padang Serai of the People's Justice Party (PKR) in Malaysia, who is highly reputed as 'Member of Parliament for the citizens’.

As someone with a long-term interest in the work of peace, Karupaiya Mutusami could not help but marvel at the activities of Chairman Man-hee Lee and his peace delegation, who have been pressing for peace through 30 world peace tours to date.

Member of Parliament of Malaysia Karupaiya Mutusami, who attended the '2019 Southeast Asia Peace Forum' as an international guest, delivers a plaque of appreciation to Chairman Lee.

Assemblyman Mutusami gladly accepted the invitation to the ‘2019 Southeast Asia Peace Forum’ held at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel, Cambodia, on February 21, 2019, during HWPL's 30th Peace Tour. He also expressed recognition for what he had learnt from Chairman Lee, a devotee to world peace, through an appreciation plaque which was engraved with the national landmarks of Malaysia. He was able to fully engage with the peace projects and values propagated by HWPL through presentations he heard delivered by HWPL officials at the forum.

He also sympathised with the necessity of submitting the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) to the UN for enactment as international law. He immediately signed in support of the DPCW and witnessed firsthand the longing for peace among the youth of Southeast Asia.

A commemorative photo of participants following the signing of a peace agreement at the ‘2019 Southeast Asia Peace Forum’ at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel, Cambodia ,on February 21, 2019

This was due, in no small part, to a special feature that was held at the event. Southeast Asian youth who attended the forum wrote and delivered handwritten letters, in support of the DPCW, to the leading representatives of each country in attendance, including government officials and parliamentarians of nine Southeast Asian countries. HWPL seized this golden opportunity to unite high-ranking officials and youth for the cause of peace. Leading officials immediately responded in kind, in writing, through writing their own letter, signed with a determination not to ignore the voices of the youth. In addition, the leading officials of Southeast Asian nations signed their support for the DPCW. All these activities were reported through the local media and their promises have been recorded in history.

That day, HWPL appealed for support of the 10 Articles, 38 Clauses of the DPCW as they urged people from all walks of life, including youth, faith leaders, NGO heads, and women around the world, to write handwritten letters of peace to their respective heads of state to inform them of the will of the people for peace through the DPCW.

On that day, Southeast Asian youth wrote handwritten letters, expressing their wish for peace through support of the DPCW, and delivered it to high-ranking officials from nine countries in attendance. They also gave a peace performance with Chairman Lee.

HWPL Chairman Man-hee Lee delivered a keynote speech on that day, saying, “I have come here today with the intention of making a very strong request. Culture and science today has advanced, but science is threatening the existence of humanity. Now there is one answer that can end wars and achieve peace. It is the 10 Articles and 38 Clauses of the DPCW.” In addition, Chairman Lee said, "A lot of students, youth and women have sent numerous letters (to high-level officials) to every country." With strong conviction, he said, "Who elect ministers and politicians? Isn't it the people? Then, the will of the people must be respected. Now that we have the answer, every leader in this global village must take heed and achieve peace.”

In an interview with local media after the event, Chairman Lee also said, “Presidents in each country are receiving 10,000, 20,000, or 100,000 handwritten letters from many young people. It's time for you to sign in support of it. Those who don't sign it will expose their desire for war. An entire nation won't just stand by if one decides not to support it."

Chairman Lee's sincere appeal was enough to stir Assemblyman Mutusami into action. Mr. Mutusami has continued to advise and support HWPL's activities since that peace tour.

Karupaiya Mutusami is a member and Chairman of Padang Serai of the People's Justice Party (PKR), which rivals the current ruling party.

Member of Parliament of Malaysia Karupaiya Mutusami (right) attends the '2019 Southeast Asia Peace Forum' as a guest

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] Royal Bafokeng Nation in South Africa Proclaims ‘HWPL Day’, hosts Peace Monument ceremony and confers Certificate of Honour on Chairman Lee

Royal Bafokeng Nation (South Africa), which signed a peace treaty with HWPL, officially declared May 25th 'HWPL Day' on March 28, 2015

A Certificate of Honour conferred on Chairman Lee by Queen Mother Semane Bonolo Molotlegi, in recognition of Chairman Lee's commitment to peace through his world peace tours

The WARP Summit, which was hosted in September 2014 by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), included numerous performances and was attended by about 200,000 people from all over the world, informing and inspiring participants about peace. The following year, on March 28, 2015, the 'Royal Bafokeng Nation Peace Festival’ was held in Royal Bafokeng Nation, South Africa, by Semane Molotlegi, Queen of the Bafokeng Kingdom, who had attended the WARP Summit. On behalf of Royal Bafokeng Nation, Queen Mother Molotlegi conferred a 'Certificate of Honour' on Chairman Lee, who had inspired a deeper enthusiasm for peace, and 'HWPL Day' was also proclaimed.

Queen Mother Semane Molotlegi confers a 'Certificate of Honour' on Chairman Lee, during his 17th peace tour, in Royal Bafokeng Nation, South Africa, on March 28, 2015, in recognition of his commitment to world peace

The Declaration of the Royal Bafokeng Nation Proclamation was signed and May 25th was designated 'HWPL Day' for posterity. Queen Mother Molotlegi delivered this peace agreement, whose content highlighted HWPL Chairman Man-hee Lee's contribution to the development and prosperity of mankind through his commitment to world peace transcending race, border, creed and culture.

The Declaration, which was issued on behalf of the Royal Bafokeng Nation by the Royal Bafokeng Nation’s Cabinet Ministers’ Committee, praised the peace activities of HWPL and Chairman Lee and stated, “Hereby proclaim May 25th of each year as Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light Day or HWPL Day in the Royal Bafokeng Nation.”

The Royal Bafokeng Nation’s Cabinet Ministers’ Committee evaluated: “The philosophy of HWPL is centered on the concept of 'heavenly culture'. The heavenly culture serves to unite humanity through love and tolerance, while holding life itself as its highest value.” The Declaration also stated: ''HWPL believes in the support of the development of communities through cultural programs, volunteerism, and youth activities, and HWPL participates in the national events of World Peace in big and small ways, they are not limited to one country, language or religion.''

In response to an official invitation by the Royal Bafokeng Nation, Chairman Lee delivers a commemorative speech at the 'Royal Bafokeng Nation Peace Festival’ in South Africa on March 28, 2015. Chairman Lee and his peace delegation visited the Royal Bafokeng Nation during their 17th peace tour

Regarding Chairman Man-hee Lee, the Declaration reads, “In his desire to unite the people around the world, Mr. Lee has traveled to 60 countries in 3 years spreading his message of humanitarianism and peace.”

Queen Mother Molotlegi expressed her admiration for Chairman Lee's peace activities by conferring a Certificate of Honour on him. She said, “I recognize that he has contributed to the national development and prosperity of mankind with a spirit of exceptional compassion and dedication for world peace and well-being that transcends race, border, creed and culture. In order to brighten up the world, I am conferring this award on Man-hee Lee, the Chairman of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light”. She also expressed her wish, saying, “I hope that he will continue to inspire and empower people to bring peace to the world.”

Participants are in good cheer during a commemorative speech which, upon an official request by the Royal Bafokeng Nation, was delivered by Chairman Lee at the 'Royal Bafokeng Nation Peace Festival’ in South Africa on March 28, 2015. Chairman Lee and his peace delegation visited the Royal Bafokeng Nation during their 17th peace tour

The initial meeting between Queen Mother Molotlegi and Chairman Lee took place at the WARP Summit hosted by HWPL in Korea in September 2014. During that event, inspired by the idea that 'peace can be achieved', Queen Mother Molotlegi spoke about peace during the International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) conference, with women leaders from around the world in attendance. In particular, it was the keynote speech by Chairman Lee on peace, and the evident spirit of oneness among attendees, that instilled in Queen Mother Molotlegi a significant interest for HWPL's peace movement. She was later appointed on the IWPG Advisory Board that same year.

When Queen Molotlegi was informed that HWPL would be visiting South Africa on a peace tour in March 2015, she acted on her experiences at the WARP Summit and masterminded the ‘Royal Bafokeng Nation Peace Festival’. She invited Chairman Lee - who was on his 17th peace tour - to the Royal Bafokeng Nation where she publicly expressed her recognition of his 16 overseas tours for world peace and the cessation of war. At this event, the Royal Bafokeng Nation not only introduced HWPL, signed a Peace Agreement and Declaration, but also erected a Peace Monument.

Chairman Lee and Queen Mother Semane Bonolo Molotlegi are in joyful celebration during the unveiling ceremony of a peace monument held in recognition of HWPL's peace endeavours, in the Royal Bafokeng Nation, on March 28, 2015

At that time, Queen Molotlegi expressed her heart, saying, "I was very moved after attending the WARP Summit in Korea last year, but I couldn't explain it all in words to the people of South Africa, so I invited HWPL here."

Queen Molotlegi also attended the subsequent Annual Commemorations of the WARP Summit after attending the opening WARP Summit in September 2014. During the 1st and 2nd Annual Commemorations of the WARP Summit in 2015 and 2016, she delivered presentations at IWPG conferences. After that, she collaborated with HWPL year on year and engaged in peace discussions with Chairman Lee during his 29th peace tour to South Africa in 2018.

Peace!

 [HWPL]

[HWPL] The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Mindanao, Philippines, Awards Plaque of Appreciation to HWPL: “Thank you for contributing to the success of the Mindanao Peace Treaty and International Peace Conference”

Plaque of appreciation delivered to Chairman Lee by Chairman Ebrahim following the 'HWPL Peace Monument Unveiling Ceremony’

On January 24, 2016, a special event was held in the province of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, Philippines during the 24th Peace Tour of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL, Chairman Man-hee Lee).

In commemoration of the Mindanao Civil Peace Agreement signed by HWPL and the indigenous Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on January 24, 2014, the 'HWPL Peace Monument Unveiling Ceremony’ and designation of ‘HWPL Day’ was held. On this day, Al-hajj Murad Ebrahim, chief minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, delivered a heartfelt plaque of appreciation to Chairman Lee.

The plaque of appreciation reads, 'Thank you for having successfully initiated the conduct of International Peace Summit in support to the Government of the Philippines and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH-MILF) Peace Process held at Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.' On that day, Chairman Ebrahim drew attention by fashioning a sickle, an agricultural tool, which, along with a plaque of appreciation, was gifted to Chairman Lee as an expression and wish for peace and the end to conflict.

On the occasion of the 2nd Anniversary of the 'Mindanao Civil Peace Agreement' that was mediated by HWPL Chairman Man-Hee Lee, the second HWPL Peace Monument in the Philippines was shown to the public through the 'HWPL Peace Monument Unveiling Ceremony’ on January 24, 2016 at the base of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, Philippines. Attendees at the unveiling ceremony cheer on.

After peace discussions held with Archbishop Antonio Ledesma of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro in 2013, HWPL held a civilian peace agreement ceremony between Catholics and Muslims on January 24, 2014. To ensure that the ceremony did not conclude with a merely superficial signed commitment by both parties for the cessation of conflict, HWPL followed up with a campaign to establish a culture of peace within the region. To this end, a peace monument was established at the center of the conflict, and 'HWPL Peace Day' was designated to remind local citizens of the peace agreement. Moreover, a peace agreement ceremony was held with the heads of local peace organizations, and through various media interviews, these events were etched into human history. As such, HWPL had continually taken steps to achieve peace in Mindanao.

Chairman Ebrahim was instrumental in making peace a reality through his sizeable efforts. HWPL, who embarked on a peace movement after signing a peace treaty with the private sector, learned of Chairman Ebrahim's will and hope for peace. HWPL proved to him that peace is not just a dream.

It allowed Chairman Ebrahim to witness the reality of peace before his eyes. HWPL invited Chairman Ebrahim to a ceremony to commemorate the 1st Annual Commemoration of the WARP Summit held in Korea in September 2015. At this event, Chairman Ebrahim was inspired with hope witnessing people all over the world coming together as one under the mantle of ‘peace’, transcending creed, race, border and ideology. Chairman Ebrahim attended with his wife and daughter, secretary and younger brother, who also shared this sentiment.

Following the 'HWPL Peace Monument Unveiling Ceremony’, a peace agreement was held at the base of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, Philippines, on January 24, 2016, to commemorate the 2nd anniversary of the 'Mindanao Civil Peace Agreement'.

Seizing the opportunity, Chairman Ebrahim pledged to participate in HWPL's work of peace with full commitment. Since then, the Mindanao peace project he collaborated on has gone smoothly. On January 24, 2016, during HWPL's 24th Peace Tour, Chairman Ebrahim invited Chairman Lee and his peace delegation to the Moro Islamic Autonomous Region (MILF) camp near Cotabato City in the Philippines. Upon Chairman Lee's visit, every citizen in Cotabato took to the streets to welcome the Day of Peace. HWPL Peace Day was celebrated by the Governor of Maguindanao Esmael G. Mangudadatu, who is under the direct jurisdiction of the President of the Philippines, Philippines' Chief Peace Negotiator, and MILF Chief Peace Negotiator.

On that day, a peace monument was established at the center of the MILF camp, and Chairman Ebrahim designated January 24th 'HWPL Peace Day' as a promise to cooperate for the work of peace. Numerous media reporters in attendance requested a follow-up press conference, and this all became a new history.

After the ‘HWPL Peace Monument Unveiling Ceremony’ on January 24, 2016, Chairman Ebrahim presented an iron-sculpted sickle to Chairman Man-hee Lee as an expression of his desire to ‘make weapons into tools for life’.

At that time, the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) had been passed.

On this day, the MILF camp promised to melt their weapons and convert them into tools for farming and peace monuments necessary for life. Chairman Ebrahim delivered a gift sealed with the promise to put what he had learnt from Chairman Lee into practice. The gift presented was an iron-sculpted sickle used to harvest grain.

The Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) was enacted in August 2018 when President Duterte finally signed the bill. The Mindanao Civil Peace Agreement by a Korean peace activist came to complete fruition 4.5 years later.

Peace!