Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Governor Tun Musa Aman has called on Sabahans to continue strengthening unity, mutual respect and harmony in conjunction with the Aidiladha celebration today (Wednesday).
In his Hari Raya Aidiladha message, he said Aidiladha is one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar, rich with lessons and wisdom derived from the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim AS and his son, Prophet Ismail AS.
“This celebration reminds us of the great sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim AS and his son, Prophet Ismail AS, which reflects unwavering obedience to the command of Allah SWT.
“The spirit of sacrifice, sincerity and patience demonstrated by these two noble Prophets should serve as guidance in our daily lives,” he said.
Musa said sacrifice is not confined to the ritual of korban alone, but also included sacrifices of time, energy and thoughts for the wellbeing of families, society, the State and the nation.
“In today’s increasingly challenging world, the people must continue to strengthen the spirit of togetherness, mutual assistance and tolerance to ensure that the harmony we have long enjoyed remains preserved,” he said.
Musa described Sabah’s multiracial and multi-religious society as a blessing, noting that the State’s diversity and culture of mutual respect remained its greatest strength.
“Sabah is truly fortunate because its people comprise various races, religions and cultures living together in an atmosphere of tolerance and mutual respect. This uniqueness is a strength that must continue to be safeguarded by all levels of society.
“I believe that a strong spirit of unity will become an important foundation in ensuring the continued stability and progress of the State,” he said.
Musa also urged Sabahans to continue nurturing the values of love, understanding and mutual respect while setting aside differences that could strain ties within the community.
He added that they should cultivate a spirit of consensus and cooperation for a better and more prosperous future for the State.
He said the Aidiladha celebration should also serve as an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and friendships through traditions such as visiting one another, forgiving each other and helping those in need must continue to be practised.
“These values form the foundation of a caring and compassionate society,” he added.
Musa also conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to frontliners, security personnel, healthcare workers, civil servants and all parties who continued carrying out their responsibilities for the wellbeing of the people and peace of the State, including during the festive season.
He also extended prayers and well wishes to Haj pilgrims from Sabah and across Malaysia currently performing the pilgrimage in the Holy Land, hoping they would be blessed with good health and attain a mabrur (accepted) Haj.
To Muslims performing the korban ritual, Musa reminded them to carry out the act with sincerity and in accordance with Syariah requirements, while embracing the values of humility, gratitude and compassion for the less fortunate.
He also reminded the public to prioritise safety during the festive season, especially those travelling to their hometowns or visiting relatives.
“Make safety on the roads a priority and always exercise caution for the wellbeing of all,” he said.
Musa and his wife, Toh Puan Faridah Tussin, also conveyed Aidiladha greetings to Muslims, especially Sabahans wherever they may be.
He hopes this year’s Aidiladha celebration would bring blessings, peace and happiness to all while further strengthening unity and harmony in the State.
