Azlan Othman
His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday reminded Muslims to remember to perform prayers amid the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
The monarch also called on Muslims to be grateful to Allah the Almighty “for the blessings that enable us to celebrate Hari Raya, which is a much-anticipated occasion following a month of fasting”.
His Majesty added, “A fight against desire is the greatest of successes. However, such abstinence should not be limited to the month of Ramadhan; it is a life-long fight. And herein lies the true test for all Muslims.”
During the Hari Raya festivities, the monarch said, Muslims must fight against wastage and remain faithful to the religion.
His Majesty said, “The way we celebrate Hari Raya is unlike the rest. We celebrate the occasion while being bound to the religion. When we celebrate Hari Raya, we don’t run away from the obligation of prayer. When we celebrate Hari Raya, we are not negligent to the point of committing a sin. Such is the uniqueness and beauty of our Hari Raya.”
His Majesty said Hari Raya “begins with the recitation of Takbir and sacred words of ‘Allahu Akbar’ and ends with ‘Walillahil Hamd’. We then continue our Takbir at the mosque where we perform the Hari Raya prayer. We then meet our parents as well as relatives and friends to seek forgiveness”.
The monarch said the exchange of greetings is an Islamic concept that is highly revered as it allows for the strengthening of relations.
His Majesty concluded the titah by extending Hari Raya Aidilfitri wishes to all citizens and residents in the Sultanate and prayed that all will receive guidance and protection from Allah the Almighty.
