3 Reforming Chinese Buddhism through the Zheng Xin (Right Faith) Movement

Abstract

This chapter maps local initiatives of the Buddhist revitalization movement in Malaysia. Focusing on two groups, the Malaysian Buddhist Association and the Youth Buddhist Association of Malaysia, the history and process of Buddhist revitalization that occurred through local efforts are examined. The notion of Zheng Xin (Right Faith) Buddhism originating from the idea of modern Buddhism has been adopted by the two groups. The process has been strengthened through formalizing the refuge taking ceremony and Buddhicizing the Hungry Ghost Festival. A tussle between reformist Buddhists and a sect called Unity Sect (Yi Guan Dao) is examined to understand a case of religious contestation among Chinese religions germinated by Buddhist revitalization.