Two missions play host to their community members
dubai — The diplomatic missions of Malaysia and Indonesia organised festive gatherings for their respective expatriate communities as part of the Eid Al Fitr celebrations in Dubai on Sunday.
The UAE is home to 7,000 Malaysian expats and nearly 4,000 of them are residing in Dubai and the northern emirates. Meanwhile, an estimated 90,000 Indonesians are living in the UAE with 50,000 of them living in Dubai and the northern emirates.
A boost to ‘Muhiba’
Cutting across faiths, more than 200 Malaysian expatriates from across the UAE gathered in Dubai to mark Eid Al Fitr.
The Consulate General of Malaysia in Dubai and Malaysian Business Council (MBC) hosted the event for the expat community at the Malaysian Trade Centre Hall in Dubai on Sunday. The celebration was in line with the public diplomacy programme of the Malaysia Consulate to boost rapport among overseas Malaysians.
Ustaz Norsam Abdul Rahman, Vice-consul of the Education Malaysia office, noted that Malaysia is a multi-religious and multi-cultural country that is made strong by its national ethos called ‘Muhibah’ which means racial harmony.
During the Eid Al Fitr sermon, he addressed his fellow Muslims and talked about religious tolerance and doing good deeds.
“Faith makes all things possible, hope makes all things work, and love makes all things beautiful,” Consul Neermal Shunmugam, who is a Hindu, told Khaleej Times.
He added that Islam is the state religion in Malaysia but everyone there can practise their faith without any hindrance, like in Dubai.
Shahid Abu Bakar, Malaysian consul for agriculture, also wished Muslims and non-Muslims a joyful Eid. “Let’s embrace it with pure heart,” he said
Malaysian expat and Fujairah resident KC Cheah, who is a Buddhist, also joined his compatriots in the celebration.
“Eid Al Fitr is a reminder that patience, understanding and tolerance will bring more progress to Malaysians wherever they are. Our diverse religion, culture are history are our strength,” Cheah said.
Malaysian favourite delicacies such as nasi lemak, mee goreng, roti canai, murtabak and native sweets were served during the Hari Raya Adilfitri (Malaysian term for Eid).