Be happy and grateful for your efforts during MCO, says King in Raya speech

Photo from the official Istana Negara Facebook account

PETALING JAYA: As this year’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration is expected to be different due to unprecedented measures to stem Covid-19, the King says Malaysians should be happy and grateful, as everyone had played their part during the movement control order (MCO).

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah also said Malaysians should not be upset because Hari Raya Aidilfitri would not be celebrated in the same way as the previous years.

“Be happy and grateful for being granted the health and strength to celebrate the first day of Hari Raya with your beloved families.

“Malaysians should also be grateful because for nearly two months, they have displayed high discipline and perseverance, aside from being patient throughout the MCO, ” said the King in his Hari Raya Royal Address on Saturday (May 23).

At the same time, the King also said there were many lessons that can be learned from Malaysia’s battle against Covid-19.

“We learned that a virus or disease can attack humans without taking into account positions or social class. We should also know that the health bestowed upon us by Allah SWT is something that is priceless.

“The Covid-19 pandemic also taught us that every human has a close bond with one another, without taking into account race, ethnicity and creed. If one doesn’t take care of their health, then it would spread to the society, and finally, the country. ”

In conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration on Sunday (May 23), the Yang di-Pertuan Agong also asked Malaysians to appreciate the commitment, bravery and sacrifice of front liners who are fighting the scourge of Covid-19.

“I’m also very appreciative of the sacrifices made by health care workers, the Armed Forces, the police and officers attached with every government agency, who are working during this festive season.

The King also advised Malaysians to continue practicing the “new normal” in their daily life, as the Covid-19 pandemic had forced all of us to make drastic changes in our lives.

“Maintain personal hygiene and practice social distancing. Stay away from unimportant activities and use your time to build a heaven at home with your beloved family members.

“God-willing, I’m confident that with the strength and unity of Malaysians, we will be able to defeat the Covid-19 virus for good.” - Star