Assistant Minister of Education and Technological Research Dr Annuar Rapaee is mulling elevating Masjid An-Nur’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering to an international event by extending invitations to religious leaders from other countries.

He pointed out that the idea was worth exploring as the visitors would be able to see for themselves the strong religious and racial unity, as well as the diverse culture in the state.

“That is a good idea – we will try. Maybe that one we have to work with the different religions because they know who to invite; I think that is good – next year (perhaps),” the Nangka assemblyman told reporters after officiating at the Aidilfitri gathering at Sibu Muslims Welfare Trust Board (Lakis) hall here on Saturday, which was attended by some 400 people.

Hosted by Masjid An-Nur management committee, the event also hosted local community leader Temenggong Datuk Wan Hamid Edruce, Sibu police chief ACP Saiful Bahri Abdullah, Bishop of Roman Catholic Church Sibu Rt Rev Joseph Hii, Sarawak Chinese Annual Conference Methodist president Rev Dr Tie King Tai, Sibu Buddhist Association chairman Charlie Tan, Sibu Sree Maha Mariamman Temple president Manogaran Krishnasamy and Sibu Sikh Temple president Jagjiwan Singh.

“I am very happy with Masjid An-Nur (committee) because they keep the tradition every year to invite the non-Muslims to the Hari Raya open house. As I have said just now, it is really a sacrifice for each of the religions and communities to get united.

“It does not mean that you have to forego your belief or faith. What I mean is that the understanding among us is also a sacrifice. That is most important and we should not ruin this because together, we built this country 54 years ago and we need to preserve this strong religious and racial harmony,” Dr Annuar emphasised.

On the proposed interfaith games, he said it would be a manifestation of their understanding and harmony that they had been building since the start of the programme.

He also said the mass break-of-fast would be held again next year following the overwhelming response this year.

For the record, some 6,000 people from all walks of life took part in the state’s inaugural mass potluck picnic-style break-of-fast at Sibu Town Square Phase 1 on June 18. Dr Annuar said he had discussed with Sibu Resident Hii Chang Kee on where the mass event would be held next year.

Meanwhile, Masjid An-Nur management committee chairman Latiff Coupon said the gathering had become a precursor for others to host similar gatherings during Christmas, Wesak and other festive occasions.

Source:
courtesy of THE BORNEO POST

by Peter Boon

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