TYT: Celebrating Aidilfitri in the ‘new reality’ a time for reflection
KUCHING: Having to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri in a very different way this year because of the Covid-19 pandemic should give Sarawakians time for reflection, said Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud.
He said the speed with which the virus spread forced the federal and state governments to enforce the Movement Control Order (MCO) and Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).
Taib said because of that the people have to comply with the CMCO and the advice to stay at home this Hari Raya, and also comply with the terms and conditions set by the state authority and the National Security Council.
“In view of the pandemic, we have to celebrate our Hari Raya in accordance with the current situation or as recognised by the world as the ‘new reality’ that has existed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I believe, the way we celebrate our Hari Raya in a situation like this, needs us to see how we all can enjoy together as a people of Malaysia, who have achieved so much success and prosperity,” he said in his Aidilfitri message.
He said amidst all the inconveniences caused by the pandemic, everyone should feel proud for contributing to the level of development and progress, unity and good relationships between the people of various ethnic groups, religions, and beliefs.
Taib pointed out that at one time the per capita income of Sarawak was only RM4,000 and this has jumped tenfold to RM40,000, so the people should thank God for His grace in enabling a rise in the standard of living.
“I believe the people will continue to support the present government under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, who will continue to move forward and turn Sarawak into a developed state and high income economy.
Touching on the Aidilfitri SOPs, which among others only allows festive visits among neighbours and relatives residing in the same state, with gatherings not allowed to exceed 20 people at any one time, Muhyiddin explained that these SOPs were guided by the principles of the Maqasid Syariah (goals and objectives of Syariah).
“To preserve life, we have to sacrifice some of our traditions or norms so as to prevent infection I am reminding and advising everyone, discuss with family members and relatives as to whom should be allowed to visit and when they come visiting, ensure they practise social distancing, and avoid ‘salam’ (handshake greetings) and body contact. Protect our aged parents and grandparents as they are more vulnerable to infection.
It is alright if we do not get to ‘salam’, hug and kiss our grandparents this time. It is not that we do not love them, but it is because we love them that we refrain from body contact,” he said.
The prime minister advised the public to ensure their homes are cleaned up immediately after hosting guests, and also to refrain from visiting graves, a norm during Hari Raya.
“All these are important so that we can celebrate Aidilfitri and at the same time prevent the spread of Covid-19 once the festive holidays are over. I mention all these because in several other countries, the outbreak got worse during festive seasons.
“We need to prevent this from happening in our country, so let us take all precautions now so that we can be safe later on. As the proverb goes, ‘Sesal dahulu pendapatan, sesal kemudian tiada berguna’ (there is no use crying over spilt milk),” he said.