KUALA LUMPUR: The Karnival Rahmah 2019 (KR19) which will be held this weekend, is aimed at giving life to the “universal compassion” (Rahmatan Lil Alamin) concept of binding the Malaysian society through the principals of peace and harmony.
The carnival, organised by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) and the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (Jawi), seeks to bring people of different background and culture together for a joyous time together.
“Although this carnival is organised by Jakim and Jawi, and many would think that the concept is only for the Muslim community, but this carnival is open to all as we want to spearhead the concept of Rahmatan Lil Alaminm,” said Jawi director Mohd Ajib Ismail.
He said the carnival which carries the name Rahmah carries six qualities: Amicable (Ramah), Peaceful (Aman), Harmonious (Harmoni), Genial (Mesra), Universal (Alami) and Respectful (Hormat).
“Through this concept, we want to show the non-Muslims that we are open and we really believe in the concept of unity in diversity.
“The carnival is one of the government’s efforts to inculcate respect among different races and religion, while accepting our differences,” said Ajib.
Although there would be pessimists who might raise controversial issues since this carnival is organised and welcomes people of all background and is organised by religious organisations, Ajib assured that non-Muslims do not have to worry about it as the religious events would be held separately.
“The programmes and activities held are appropriate for Malaysians and is also a platform for non-Muslims to understand about Islam. As for the Muslims, this would be an avenue for them to practice some of the Islamic teachings of living harmoniously in a multicultural country.
“The event is also held to show the non-Muslims that Islam is a religion which practices harmony and respect among people of all religion and background,” he said.
Among activities which would be held during the carnival are Halal Fun Run which would be attended by Malaysia’s number one singer, Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin, Concert Rahmah and also a free Rahmah feast for all.
Among the partners of the carnival who would be providing the food for the feast are KFC, Pizza Hut, Ayamas, Mohd Chan Chinese Muslim Restaurant and Ali Maju Restaurant for vegetarians.
While, the concert in evening on September 27 would see performances by Ramli Sarip, David Arumugam, Aishah and Azmi Caliph Busker, among others.
There will also be a mini carnival for children, book fest and agro market by Federal Agriculture Marketing Board which would run concurrently during the four-day carnival which would begin on September 26.