Abdul Karim (fifth right) hands over the award to Abdul Rahman. Lee is at third left, while Ting is at right.
MIRI: Maulidur Rasul has been called a platform to strengthen brotherhood and unity among Muslims of all races.
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said although this year’s celebration was limited due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it was still an opportunity to solidify harmony.
“The Maulidur Rasul that we celebrate every year should be used as momentum to further enhance the steps towards a perfect way of life as required by God,” he said when officiating at the Maulidur Rasul celebration for Miri Division yesterday.
He called on Muslims to advance their thoughts or development of the mind, development of the faith or beliefs, development of the soul or heart, development of attitude or morals, development of knowledge and intellect, as well as development of unity of heart and feelings.
Abdul Karim said all these aspects need to be developed through a continuous and rewarding process by returning to the path taught and bequeathed by the Prophet Muhammad.
He said the government had chosen the theme ‘Ummah Rabbani Negara Harmoni’ as the theme for this year’s celebration.
According to him, the theme reflects the lives of multiracial, multilingual, and multi-religious Malaysians.
“Harmony and well-being are very important concepts to create a harmonious country. Harmony in community relations can only be created if each individual has a good understanding of their respective roles to apply noble values in daily interaction,” he explained.
“In our context as Muslims in Malaysia, especially in Sarawak, we have shown and highlighted the concept of harmony in our daily lives. We can live in peace and harmony even in a multi-religious, multi-ethnic, and multilingual society,” he added.
Datuk Temenggong Abdul Rahman Fadzil received the Tokoh Maulidul Rasul award for Miri Division, while Masjid Darul Istiqamah Kampung Luak was the best mosque for 2019 and Surau Darul Falah Kampung Lembah Hijau Surau was the best surau.
The top preacher award went to Azizul Hafidz Abdul Hardy, while the best preacher (convert) award went to Mohd Amirul Rusydie Abdullah.
Among those present at the event were Minister of Transport Datuk Lee Kim Shin and Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Sebastian Ting.