Malaysia has a population of about 34 million. More than 63.5% of our population are Muslims. This month, they are observing the holy month of Ramadan where they fast from physical food. To all our Muslim friends, during this fasting month of Ramadan, we say, “Selamat Menyambut Bulan Ramadan”.
What is this fasting month all about? What do we do during this time other than abstaining from food? I believe that when we decide to fast, regardless of our faith, we are training ourselves in self-discipline, abstaining from many things like food, television or things that distract us. We spend time reading the word of God from our respective holy books, pray and develop greater spiritual awareness. During this time, as we develop a time of stillness and reflection, we strive towards moral excellence like truth, justice, righteousness. For Muslims, Ramadan is a time to train themselves both physically and spiritually by avoiding any negative acts such as gossiping, backbiting, lying or arguing.
Quoting our Prime Minister (PMX), “Ramadan is about self-discipline, values and morals which I am manifesting as MADANI.” Yes, it takes great discipline to observe a month of fasting and abstinence from physical food. However, I feel that it takes greater courage during this holy month of Ramadan to reflect on the morals and values that you hold on to. I pray that as a nation, each of us will take time regularly to reflect so that we can quickly discard the negative traits and develop positive ones. Let us be courageous to acknowledge our shortcomings of greed, injustice or lies and make a change. Let us not compromise in our morals because just a little yeast is enough to leaven a loaf of bread.
As Malaysians, let us choose to be courageous in the face of adversity, resilient in facing numerous challenges, and be patient in our endurance. Together, we can overcome all odds and build a better Malaysia for ourselves as well as the generations to come.
Mei Wong
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