Appealing to our better nature this festive season – Vinod Sekhar

AS we have now ended this period of fasting for Muslims, as a non-Muslim, I am deeply humbled by what the holy month of Ramadan represents, and its universal statement of declaring a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God and practise humility.

We know that Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking. Muslims are called upon to use this month to re-evaluate their lives in light of God’s guidance.

They are to make peace with those who have wronged them, and strengthen ties with family and friends – essentially to clean up their lives, thoughts and feelings.

What an incredible, holy and noble challenge for all of humanity. All of us, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, must now try to keep listening to the better angels of our nature.

As Malaysians celebrate this Hari Raya with just our close family around us, whatever our differences, whatever our politics, and whatever mistakes we may have made, let’s – in the true spirit of Ramadan, and now, Syawal – forgive each other and forge ahead refreshed and positive.

We are all merely human, we are all Malaysians and we are all God’s children.

Surely within those three factors we can find the strength, the power, to make Malaysia the country of all our dreams.

We took that first step three years ago on May 9.

To all my brothers and sisters, forgive me if I have hurt you in any way, as I forgive you.

It has been an incredibly difficult 14 months. And around the world, we only see more chaos and injustice, be it in Palestine, Syria or parts of Africa.

This is why we must count our blessings, stay strong, destroy ignorance and create hope.

Even now, we can – we must – as a people be a lighthouse, the shining bright home on the hill, a North Star, for the world to follow. With or without our politicians, this is what we are meant to be. This we will be.

A very blessed, safe and happy Hari Raya Aidilfitri to all, may Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala bless us all and may God bless Malaysia. – The Vibes, May 14, 2021

Datuk Dr Vinod Sekhar is PETRA Group chairman and chief executive