PUTRAJAYA: Ramadan is not only a month of fasting, but a powerful opportunity for self-renewal, moral strengthening and collective responsibility towards building a better nation, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He described Ramadan as a time for learning, reflection and personal improvement.
"The holy month offers Muslims the opportunity to reassess their weaknesses and strive for progress not only in faith, but also in character, work performance, commitment and personal discipline.
"It is a period to measure our growth in iman (faith), akhlak (morality) and integrity as well as how we carry out our daily responsibilities," he said in his speech during the Home Ministry's Ihya Ramadan event on Thursday (Feb 19).
He added that a deeper understanding of the teachings of the Quran and stronger spiritual grounding were essential.
He stressed that human development should not be narrowly defined by technological advancement alone, but must also be guided by moral and ethical values.
"Society must remain sensitive to poverty and social inequalities, while avoiding hypocrisy and superficial gestures in the name of development.
"True progress must be anchored in truth, sincerity and accountability. We must avoid division, favouritism and actions that weaken unity," he added.
He also reminded Malaysians to exercise caution in their actions and decision-making, urging them to pursue success with full awareness of their social and moral responsibilities.
On governance, Anwar said leaders and the government carried a heavy responsibility in addressing national challenges, including inflation and unresolved systemic issues.
Noting that the country’s economic health was relatively better than often perceived, the Prime Minister said the rising cost of living remained a pressing concern that required continuous attention.
"More thorough investigations and decisive action on critical issues are needed as incomplete probes and unsatisfactory responses could erode public trust.
"National security is not solely the duty of enforcement agencies but a shared responsibility among all citizens.
"Reform and change must continue. Leaders must remain steadfast, courageous and unafraid in carrying out their mandate," he said
Anwar also said aid must reach those genuinely in need, and social problems, particularly negative behavioural trends among youths, must be understood and addressed comprehensively.
