Be Thankful We Can Fast In Peace, Malaysian PM Tells Muslims

KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak today reminded Muslims in the country to be thankful they could fast in peace, safe surroundings and without fear. He said they should not take for granted the peace which was being enjoyed today, and should draw a lesson from other Islamic nations which could not enjoy the same luxury. "For Muslims, we are thankful that in this month which is full of glory and filled with Allah's compassion, we can devote ourselves to Allah in a very secure and calm condition without feeling anxious and afraid. "This is one clemency which Allah has bestowed upon us. "As we know, one by one, Islamic nations are not going through the luxury that we, as Malaysians, regard as normal...to the extent that we do not consider this (peace) as a luxury that we should be thankful for," he said. The prime minister was speaking at a breaking of the fast and handing over of Aidilfitri presents to excellent students from the Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory Islamic Orphans Welfare Association (Perkayatim) here Tuesday. On the conflict in Syria, Najib said the government had decided to bring home Malaysians from that country. "This is one lesson we can take, if peace and security are not protected. What will happen to us? "Hopefully, the peace and unity are prolonged, a blessing of our actions as Muslims who love peace and harmony," he added. On the welfare of orphans, Najib said Muslims should help orphans because they were special in the eyes of God. He told the orphans not to regard the loss of their parents as a weakness. "Regard it as a challenge that could push you to strive harder," he said. After the breaking of fast, he performed the Maghrib prayers at the Tabung Haji Surau and then adjourned for dinner, before handing out contributions to the orphans. Najib also cut his 59th birthday cake, witnessed by Rosmah and the orphans before the couple joined guests and the orphans to perform the Isyak and Tarawih prayers. (photoBERNAMA) MALAYSIA