A time for reflection, unity and compassion
As the crescent moon heralds the arrival of Ramadan, I extend warm greetings to the nation but especially to our local Islamic community. This sacred month is a time of reflection, renewal, and deep spiritual devotion. It is a period that calls upon us to fast, pray, and engage in acts of charity, reminding us of our shared humanity and our duty to care for one another.
Ramadan is not merely a time of abstinence from food and drink from dawn until sunset, but it is a profound spiritual exercise in self-discipline, compassion, and submission to the will of Allah. It is a time to purify the heart, seek forgiveness, and draw closer to the Almighty. As Allah says in the Holy Quran: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)
During this blessed month, let us commit ourselves to fostering greater peace, unity, and understanding within our communities and our nation. We live in a diverse society, where mutual respect and kindness are essential to our collective progress. Ramadan teaches us patience and humility—qualities that can heal divisions and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among us.
Let us also use this month to be more conscious of the less fortunate in our midst. Ramadan calls upon us to be charitable, to share our blessings, and to extend a helping hand to those in need. “And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], ‘We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'” (Surah Al-Insan 76:8-9)
It is through such acts of kindness and generosity that we not only enrich our own souls but also uplift the lives of others. In this spirit, I urge our Brothers and Sisaters to extend their generosity to the poor and to offer comfort to those who may be struggling.
As we observe Ramadan, let us also strive to embody the values of mercy, forgiveness, and compassion. Let us treat each other with dignity, regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs. May this sacred time serve as a reminder that we are all part of one human family, and that love and kindness should define our interactions.
I also encourage our young people to use this time wisely—to deepen their knowledge, to build strong moral character, and to reflect on how they can contribute positively to their families and their country. Our nation needs the strength, wisdom, and energy of its people, guided by values that promote harmony and progress.
As the Holy Month unfolds, let us keep in our prayers those who are suffering, those who are displaced, and those who long for peace and stability. May we, through our words and deeds, be instruments of peace in our communities and our nation.
As Allah reminds us: “Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.” (Surah Al-Hujurat49:13). Let us strive to be the best versions of ourselves, not just during Ramadan, but in our daily lives, so that we may build a society rooted in respect, unity, and mutual support.
May this Ramadan bring immense blessings upon our nation. May our fasting be accepted, our prayers answered, and our good deeds multiplied. And may Allah grant us peace, prosperity, and strength as we continue to work towards a brighter future for all.
