IPOH: Continue nurturing the values of mutual understanding so that Malaysians can work together to build the state and nation, says Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The Perak Mentri Besar said the spirit of togetherness and mutual respect has long been the foundation of the country’s strength and these values should continue to be the people's guide.
"Society has been confronted with various issues touching on racial and religious sensitivities which, if not handled wisely, can hurt feelings, strain relationships and erode the trust that has long been built.
“More worrying is that differences in opinion are no longer embraced with wisdom, but are instead met with emotion and expressed without careful thought,” he said in his speech during the state-level Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration at Stadium Indera Mulia on Saturday (March 21).
“Hopefully, with the spirit of Syawal brings forgiveness and self-reflection, as we continue to nurture the values of mutual understanding,” he added.
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Saarani also said that social media should serve as a platform to spread goodwill and foster understanding instead of being misused for conflict, insults and offensive remarks that disregard sensitivities surrounding race and religion.
“In a world full of differences, our choice is not merely to speak but to determine whether our words unite or divide,” he added.
He urged the public to take the opportunity during this occasion to correct misunderstandings, improve intentions, set aside arrogance and purify hearts.
“Let us choose to understand rather than oppose and to reconcile rather than divide,” he said.
At the same time, Saarani reminded that while Syawal is a time of joy, the world beyond remains in turmoil, with ongoing conflicts and wars depriving many of peace and stability.
“Some celebrate Aidilfitri in fear, while others do so in grief and loss, as conflicts continue to destroy lives.
“As we celebrate Syawal, let us truly appreciate and reflect on the blessing of peace that we are enjoying,” he added.
The event, which saw an attendance of 20,000 people, was graced by Perak's Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah and Raja Permaisuri Tuanku Zara Salim.
Also present were Perak Raja Muda Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa, Raja Puan Muda Tunku Soraya Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah and Raja Dihilir Raja Iskandar Dzurkarnain Sultan Idris Shah.
The Sultan presented duit raya to 69 children from an orphanage during the event.
