Interfaith leaders extend Ramadan greetings

The Malaysian Consultative Council for Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) has wished all Malaysian Muslims a peaceful Ramadan.

"This year’s Ramadhan is definitely a different experience as we are still in the implementation of the movement control order (MCO) due to the Covid-19 pandemic," said group leaders in a joint statement.

The statement was issued in the name of MCCBCHST President Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim (above) of the Christian Federation Malaysia, Sardar Jagir Singh of the Malaysian Gurdwaras Council, RS Mohan Shan of the Malaysia Hindu Sangam, Dao Zhang Tan Hoe Chieow of the Federation of Taoist Associations Malaysia and the Venerable Sing Kan of the Malaysia Buddhist Association.

The group wished their Muslim brethren blessings for a happy and meaningful Ramadan - the holy month which is a period of spiritual reflection and acts of kindness.

"In April, some faiths have also celebrated their festivals in a similar way which is at home. The Hindus celebrated Tamil New Year, the Sikhs celebrated Vaisakhi and earlier the Taoists observed their Qing Ming festival by paying respect to their ancestors at home. The Christians celebrated Easter also with closed churches," said the group.

They extended their good wishes to Muslims in the country who are expected to begin observing Ramadan while practising a "new normal" which calls for adjustments to the way we conduct our lives and carry out obligations.

"Our Muslim friends are also expected to make sacrifices this fasting month as we are all urged to continue maintaining physical distancing.

"Although much of the communal prayers and gatherings in mosques and surau are not allowed, prayers done at home will still be meaningful and efficacious.

"May the fight this Ramadan not only be confined to the worldly desires but also against the Covid-19 virus that has plagued many lives around the world. With God’s grace we will overcome," said the group. - Mkini