The United States (US) Embassy in Brunei Darussalam hosted its first ever inter-faith iftar on Wednesday as well as a reception for its exchange alumni, civil society representatives of different faiths at the US Chief of Mission’s residence.
As it was the first time the US Embassy hosted an inter-faith iftar reception, the event provided a unique opportunity for Muslim guests and other faith communities to build relationships and understand their diversity as well as engaging inclusively on shared values.
US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn McClelland said in her opening remarks that the holy month of Ramadhan provides an opportunity to reflect and honour Islamic values such as sacrifice, compassion for others, and a focus on shared humanity – values that are common across different religions.
“Our hope is that in celebrating our universal values, we will build friendships that will strengthen Bruneian society while bringing our two nations even closer together,” she said.
2019 Fulbright US-ASEAN’s visiting scholar alumni Dr Hilmy Baihaqy bin Yussof led a prayer before the breaking of the fast.
During the course of the evening, guests engaged in lively discussions about Brunei’s culture, the significance of Ramadhan, and common practices for American Muslims.
Guests also learnt about the US Embassy’s exchange programmes such as the Fulbright programme, the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI), the Global Undergraduate Exchange programme (Global UGRAD) and other study opportunities in the US.
