This comes following the sighting of the moon in the country on Wednesday by Muslims, who always anticipate the sighting of the new crescent moon that signifies the official first day of Ramadan.
During Ramadan, Muslims dedicate themselves to grow spiritually and build stronger relationships with Allah. They do this by praying and reciting the Qur’an, making their actions intentional and selfless, and abstaining from gossiping, lying, fighting and many other sinful acts. It is also a month Muslims ensure total devotion and seek God’s blessing and repentance.
Throughout the month, fasting between sunrise and sunset is obligatory for all Muslims, except for the ill, pregnant, traveling, elderly, or menstruating ones. Muslims are also required to abstain from drinking, eating or any immoral acts and anger.
As a tradition in many countries, Muslims observe the month with group congregations both day and night in mosques.
As Muslims, let’s try to buy the teachings and values of Islam especially during this month. However, what we have observed is that the price of basic food commodities sky rocket by selfish businesses, who are hell bent on making profits during this holy month. As believers it is important that we practice the faith in real time and do away with acts that are believed to be un-Islamic.
Prophet Muhammed (SAW) during his life and time had emphasised and had share his little with the poor by caring for them during this month.
In fact Ramadan teaches people about self-discipline, self-control and sacrifice. We all have a duty and moral obligation to remember those less privileged in this blessed. Every contribution helps. And there are many initiatives to do this.
This also reminds us of the need to call for attitudinal change. We need to do away with acts that are not inimical to our faith alone, but to the country at large.
It is true that the world is going through a difficult time in terms of economic challenges, but the little one that is given out would put smiles on the face of others.
We want to call on the business community to show empathy and compassion to the Muslims Ummah by maintaining the price of basic food commodities at an affordable price.
Ramadan is a month Muslims should always show mercy and compassion to humanity.
Let’s follow the footsteps of our beloved Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. Seeking God’s blessing in this month as believers would only strengthen our faith.