Hope Fife-and-Drum Corps Returns to Physical General Meeting After Ten Years: Deepening Faith and Fostering Growth

The Hope Fife-and-Drum Corps 7th General Meeting took place from 2 to 4 January 2026 at the SGM Culture Centre. Bringing together 270 “Angels of Peace” from six states – Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Perak, Penang, Kedah and Pahang – along with 10 representatives from Johor, this long-awaited in-person gathering served as a vital platform for mutual learning, rigorous training and the strengthening of “many in body, one in mind.”

The general meeting is held every five years and serves as a significant milestone for Angels of Peace nationwide to deepen friendships, exchange skills and reconnect with their spiritual foundations. As the previous general meeting was held during the Covid-19 pandemic, this event marked the first in-person national gathering in 10 years since 2015. Centred on technical excellence and the practice of faith, the general meeting encouraged members to break through personal limits and accumulate “experiences of victory” through training and challenges. Participants also deepened their understanding of the Lotus Sutra, The New Human Revolution, and the spirit of the oneness of mentor and disciple.

The performance on 3 January, titled “Where Dreams Meet the Heart,” featured original dance pieces presented by the Angels of Peace from the six participating states. The creative themes were inspired by children’s stories written by Daisaku Ikeda. Centred on the core concepts of dreams, hope and courage, the performance showcased the long-term preparation and immense creativity of the members. The show reached an audience of approximately 1,900 people, with 1,100 attending in person and 800 joining via a simultaneous livestream.

On the final day of the general meeting, the learning theme focused on the spirit of Bodhisattva Wonderful Sound – a life that responds to challenges with both gentleness and unshakeable strength. The Angels of Peace were encouraged to speak out with courage at crucial moments and to inspire those around them through compassionate, value-creating action.

Loo Pey Yi, an Angel of Peace, shared her decade-long journey from being an audience member to stepping onto the stage. She spoke candidly about her recent realisations following a health challenge, vowing to persevere in her mission with a healthy body and renewed determination.

Filled with a renewed sense of purpose, the Angels of Peace departed with a firm resolve to manifest their faith and spirit through action, embracing future challenges and mission as they march towards the centennial of the Soka Gakkai’s founding in 2030.

Reported by Adeline Tay and Eng Joo Min, photographed by Beh Huai Jian, Jordann Cheng, Leong Weng Hong and Lum Heng