Hakim Hayat
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 in a titah urged the people to exercise perseverance and patience in the face of challenges during the holy month of Ramadhan and the COVID-19 pandemic.
In His Majesty’s titah from Istana Nurul Iman to mark the first day of Ramadhan for 1443 Hijrah, broadcast on Radio Television Brunei last night, the monarch said as the country marks the third year of Ramadhan in pandemic times, Muslims must always accept Allah the Almighty’s will.
“As faithful Muslims, we need to be consistent in praying, reciting Zikir and reading Al-Quran to ask for mercy from Allah the Almighty and for His protection from the pandemic.
“I believe that the blessings from our special Munajat this Ramadhan will not be in vain.”
His Majesty also said the holy month is not just the time for Ummah to refrain from eating and drinking, but it is also a form of Jihad (struggle and effort) to fight desires.
“In fact, it is considered a great Jihad because fighting desires is difficult and challenging,” His Majesty added.
It is also a tradition for the holy month to be filled with Sunnat Tarawih prayers, Tedarus Al-Quran, Qiamullail and the attempt to seize the night of Lailatul Qadar, which His Majesty said, can still be carried out in the current pandemic situation. “With our good intention to worship, an easy way will be granted by Allah the Almighty.”
His Majesty also extolled the benefits of Sedaqah (charity), which is encouraged during Ramadhan.
“The hidden values of giving is very special; it does not just help those in need, but it also repels calamities and treats illnesses,” the monarch said.
His Majesty cited a sabda from Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) by saying, “Your illness can be cured by giving Sedaqah.”
The monarch added, “This is the glory of Islam, offering us various ways to perform charitable acts.”
In concluding the titah, His Majesty prayed that with Ramadhan’s blessings, Allah the Almighty “will accept our worship and repentance, forgive us and allow the country to attain blessings and protection from various disasters, especially in pandemic”.
