In posts across various social media platforms on May 27, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam wished all Muslims Selamat Hari Raya Haji and emphasised on his hope for world peace and that “all will share feelings of peace, compassion and friendship”.
“It (Hari Raya Haji) is also an opportunity to be reminded of our common humanity, wherever we are. And to lend our hearts to the countless innocent people still caught in wars and conflicts, and denied the basics for a proper life. May there eventually be a return to peace, underpinned by respect for sovereignty and the rights of all peoples,” said President Tharman.
He also mentioned that the name of the celebration in Malay comes from the festival marking the culmination of the Haj, while Tamil Muslims call it Haji Perunāl, and in Arabic, it is referred to as Eid al-Adha, or Feast of the Sacrifice.
“However, it has a broader meaning: that it is through sacrifice, kindness and humility that we achieve meaning in life,” President Tharman added.
