HIS Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, the King and Queen of Malaysia, today performed Aidilfitri prayers at Surau Utama Istana Negara, followed by a royal Hari Raya gathering attended by national leaders, Cabinet members and foreign representatives.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and his wife Datin Seri Hamidah Khamis were among those present, alongside Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan.
Also in attendance were Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Dr Johari Abdul, Chief Justice Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh, senior government officials and foreign representatives. Delegations from several countries, including the United Kingdom, Iran, Azerbaijan and Indonesia, were present at the gathering, which drew more than 600 guests.
The King and Queen, together with the congregation, recited the Aidilfitri takbir before performing the prayers led by Istana Negara religious officer Datuk Munir Md Salleh.
In his Aidilfitri sermon titled “Syawal: Bangkit Dari Ujian, Bersatu Dalam Keimanan”, Munir reminded worshippers not to overlook communities in West Asia who are facing ongoing conflict and instability.
He urged Muslims to strengthen unity, avoid divisions and preserve harmony within society, while also encouraging prudence in spending amid global economic uncertainty linked to geopolitical tensions.
Following the prayers and sermon, Their Majesties spent time greeting congregants before proceeding to the Aidilfitri reception at Istana Negara.
The festive gathering featured traditional Malaysian cuisine, including Johor specialties kacang pool and sup tulang merah, alongside lemang, ketupat, rendang and nasi beriani.
The occasion was further enlivened by musical performances from the Royal Malaysia Police Band quintet and a special performance by Datuk DJ Dave, who is also chairman of the National Artists Welfare Foundation.
Before departing, Sultan Ibrahim and Raja Zarith Sofiah mingled with guests, reflecting the spirit of openness and togetherness that characterises the annual Aidilfitri celebration at the royal residence. - March 21, 2026
