Message for Haj by Alhaj A.H.M Fowzie: Muslims playing major role in all facets of life

As responsible citizens, co-existing peacefully with citizens of other religions and ethnicities, Muslims play a major role in society and contribute toward the social, cultural, economic and political development of the country, State Minister of National Integration and Reconciliation A.h.m.fowzie said.

Issuing a message for Haj, that falls today (12) he had stated that Muslims in Sri Lanka had been very reasonable and considerate in their dealings with other communities.

On this sacred day of Haj, I am happy to convey my sincere greetings to Muslims throughout the country and pray to Allah to bless our country with everlasting peace and prosperity, he said.

The State minister said the message of Haj stressed upon the importance of sacrifice, particularly to give up one’s pride, arrogance, high status and to become one with the commoners and draped in a simple white cloth collectively march against evil, seeking the common good in everyone. It asserts the reality that they belong to one human race and therefore none is superior to another.

“Instead, they convert themselves into the epitome of human love, co-existence, and brotherhood towards their fellowmen and most of all, as ideal role models, to live as true Muslims.”

As far as Muslims here are concerned, I am happy that they are a disciplined community conducting themselves according to the teachings of Islam, in doing so they pay due respect to other religions and take care not to hurt the sensibilities of their fellow citizens, Fowzie stated.

I wish to appeal to my brothers and sisters to continue to conduct yourselves in the same the manner, to make other communities understand that Islam promotes love, friendship, brotherhood, peace and peaceful co-existence, he added.

The State minister stated that there was no event more significant than Haj, that demonstrates this great teaching and it was rightly known by all as the “Festival of Sacrifice”.