King calls for appreciation of peace, prosperity in Aidilfitri message

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah and the Raja Permaisuri Tunku Azizah Maimunah Iskandariah extended Hari Raya Aidilfitri greetings to all Malaysians celebrating the festival tomorrow.

In his Aidilfitri message, which was aired over TV1 tonight, Sultan Abdullah reminded the people to appreciate the peace, security and prosperity prevailing in the country today.

He called on the people to foster the spirit of unity, and keep away from matters which can threaten the prosperity of the country.

“In line with the multiracial and multi-religious nature of the country, Aidilfitri should be celebrated with joy by all Malaysians.

“I feel the culture of celebrating major religious festivals and the practice of visiting one another can serve as a strong bridge of solidarity for us in Malaysia,” he said.

Sultan Abdullah said he and the queen expressed their utmost gratitude to Allah for His blessings that enable all Muslims to celebrate Aidilfitri after a month of the Ramadan fast.

He said he hoped that the prayers during the past month would have nurtured Muslims to be more devout.

The king also called on the people not to forget the sacrifices as well as services of his predecessors who left behind a peaceful and prosperous Malaysia for the benefit of the present and future generations.

Sultan Abdullah said he appreciated the sacrifices of those who have to be on duty during the festival, especially members of the armed forces and police, as well as members of the government agencies, to maintain peace and prosperity in the country.

In the message, Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah Maimunah also took the opportunity to thank the people who expressed condolences on the demise of his father, Sultan Ahmad Shah Sultan Abu Bakar on May 22.

"The outpouring of thoughts and love by Malaysians has indeed consoled my family. 

"I and the raja permaisuri pray for the people and our country to be always under the protection of Allah and continue to prosper while staying clear of misfortune and disasters.

"Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri to all my beloved Malaysians. Maaf zahir dan batin,” he said.

- Bernama