IPOH: SULTAN of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah hopes family values and racial harmony among people of different religions in the country are continuously strengthened through the celebration of Hari Raya.
Sultan Nazrin Shah, in his royal address in conjunction with the festivity, also said peace needed to be preserved, especially in Malaysia, where its people are of diverse ethnic groups and religions.
Hari Raya, according to the ruler, is a big day for the Muslims, celebrated with open houses and visiting families, friends and neighbours.
“Harmonious relationships among the people is a pre-requisite to peace. The voice of peace needs to be fostered and enriched.
“Muslims are encouraged to forgive, foster rapport and strengthen ‘ukhuwah’ (brotherhood).
“Good values such as establishing a harmonious relationship is evident through the Muslims’ hosting of open houses and welcoming guests of various races and religions,” he said, expressing hope that the Hari Raya celebration can be enjoyed by all, including the poor, the elderly, orphans, widows and single mothers, who must not be left out and given due attention and assistance by those who have a blessed life.
“Today, peace among the Muslims in certain countries only remains a dream. The people of Palestine continue to suffer due to the cruelty of Israel.
“At a time when Muslims are decorating their houses in preparation for Hari Raya, many in the land of Palestine are unsure if they will still have their houses tomorrow. At a time when Muslims are shopping for new clothes for their children, parents in Palestine are unsure if their children will still breathe tomorrow.
Sultan Nazrin Shah also said Hari Raya is a gift from the divine to those who complete the fifth tenet of Islam — fasting.
“It is a victory of the people who manage to fight lust. The joyous occasion when Syawal comes must be celebrated with praises for Allah to mark the victory,” he added.
Meanwhile, Sultan Nazrin Shah and his wife Raja Permaisuri of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim also expressed their heartfelt appreciation to those working during Hari Raya.
“When the majority of Muslims get to celebrate Hari Raya with their families, there are those who have to continue working, such as the police, soldiers, firemen as well as those serving in the critical services such as hospitals, prisons, employees of transportation and utility companies, highway workers, petrol station workers, hotel and restaurant workers, members of the media as well as those in the telecommunications line.
“"Their sacrifices have enabled the majority of us to celebrate Hari Raya with joy. We express our appreciation to them as well as their family members.”