BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Muslims across Brunei were urged by Imams to embrace self-reflection, gratitude and continuous self-improvement as the new year begins, during Friday prayers at mosques nationwide.
In the Friday sermon titled “Becoming a Better Person”, worshippers were reminded that true success lies in strengthening faith, improving character and consistently striving to be better individuals, rather than viewing the new year as a mere change of date.
Imams nationwide highlighted taqwa, or God-consciousness, as the foundation of faith and the key to honour in the sight of the Almighty. It was stressed that those who constantly remember Allah the Almighty, both in ease and hardship, would attain peace in this world and the hereafter.
Marking the arrival of 2026, the sermon described the new year as an opportunity for renewal, encouraging Muslims to reflect on the past year’s experiences – both joyful and challenging – as part of the Almighty’s divine wisdom.
Quoting Surah Ibrahim, verse 7, the sermon reminded congregants that gratitude leads to an increase in blessings, while ingratitude invites loss. Worshippers were urged to appreciate Allah’s favours and to use them responsibly.
Imams also emphasised the importance of self-accountability, citing a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad which states that a wise person is one who evaluates himself and prepares for the life after death.
Congregants were reminded that meaningful change does not happen overnight, but through small, consistent efforts. Acts of worship carried out regularly, even if modest, were described as among the deeds most beloved to the Almighty.
Practical guidance was also shared, including fulfilling obligatory religious duties with sincerity, seeking forgiveness and repentance from sins, improving acts of worship such as prayer and Quran recitation, and being mindful of how Allah’s blessings – including time, health and abilities – are used.
The sermon concluded by urging Muslims not to allow the new year to pass without reflection and action, reminding them that true success lies in seeking Allah’s pleasure and living a life guided by faith and good character.
Prayers were offered for Allah’s guidance, mercy and blessings, with the hope that the new year would be a period of positive transformation and stronger faith for the Muslim community. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
