A jade relief measuring approximately three stories in height and weighing 42 tonnes has been recognized by both the Asia Records and Asean Records as the largest and first of its kind. Located at the Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si Buddhist temple and education centre in Johor Baru, Malaysia, the relief spans 36.3 meters across and rises 9.8 meters high.
The sculpture features 420 three-dimensional figures, divided into three thematic sections that blend traditional Buddhist imagery with contemporary life scenes. Venerable Ru Bin, the abbess of Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si, explained that the relief includes 183 modern people and religious figures alongside 237 depictions of Buddhas, bodhisattvas, monks, and other religious icons. Additionally, 56 animals are carved into the piece, including various birds and Chinese zodiac animals. Notably, the pig was omitted as a sign of respect for Islam, Malaysia’s official religion.
The relief incorporates over 20 different types of plants, including Malaysia’s national flower, the hibiscus, as well as coconut and banana trees and fruits such as pineapples and mangosteens. According to Ru Bin, the artwork, while deeply rooted in Buddhist tradition, was intentionally designed to reflect a Malaysian identity.
The relief also conveys multiple themes, including education, environmental stewardship, charity, and kindness to animals. Contemporary elements such as sports and the temple’s mobile library initiative are also integrated throughout the mural. The artwork contains 40 unique details and stories within its overall design.
Crafted in sections from solid white jade, the relief was carved by artisans in China before being transported and assembled at the Johor Baru site. The entire project took approximately three years from initial concept to completion, spanning 2016 to 2018.
Maintenance of the relief requires considerable effort, with temporary scaffolding erected annually to facilitate cleaning. Admission to the education centre in Taman Sutera Utama is free, providing access for both local visitors and tourists to experience the jade relief as well as other galleries that showcase Malaysian artists. The centre also offers activities aimed at promoting peace and mindfulness.
With its recent recognition on the regional stage, Fo Guang Shan Hsingma Si hopes the jade relief will attract visitors seeking cultural experiences in Johor Baru beyond the city’s established reputation for shopping and dining.