BY: ERIC HO

While the Chinese community in Malaysia was busily occupied celebrating the Chinese New Year of the prancing horse, the dawn of the Holy month of Ramadan descended on Muslims all over the world.

The Holy period of Ramadan is the prelude to the joyous celebration of Hari Raya Aidil-Fitri and is characterised by prayer, fasting almsgiving and visits to mosques and suraus while carrying on the duties and responsibilities of daily life.

Besides this, the Holy Ramadan epitomises a time of repentance and penance from ‘dosa’ or sin and it is also a time of reflection and contemplation of a Muslims life in relation to the instructions of Prophet Mohammad (Peace Be Upon Him)

This is a time for all Muslims to identify with the poor and suffering in this world, regardless of race or religion and nationality, and to come together as the ‘ummah’ or faithful while setting aside all ideological and political differences.

This is why it is important in this phase or transition before Eid-Al-Fitri, to preach and teach Islamic teachings that are wholesome, positive, uplifting for the soul and encouraging, from those who are endorsed with the power and authority by the Islamic authorities.

It is also a time to gain knowledge, grow in wisdom, develop patience and learn to discern and know the will of Allah in our lives and to execute or carry out His instructions to us to live a fulfilled, meaningful and satisfied life.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

** The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher