PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malaysians to embrace moderation, strengthen unity and remain mindful of economic challenges as the nation marks the end of Ramadan and prepares for Aidilfitri celebrations.
In his festive message, Anwar underscored the broader significance of Ramadan as a period of spiritual discipline and character-building, calling on the public to ensure that its lessons endure beyond the holy month.
“We are very grateful to Allah SWT for giving us the opportunity to complete the Madrasah of Ramadan and to build a personality where morals and manners become the fruit of the worship performed throughout Ramadan,” he said.
He said fasting serves not only as a religious obligation but also as a means of strengthening personal integrity and overcoming inner weaknesses.
“The objective of fasting, the purpose of fasting, which has been stated by prominent scholars, contains wisdom and goals… to build a personality and to free oneself from self-deception… as a form of continuous spiritual struggle,” he said.
Anwar expressed hope that the values cultivated during Ramadan would continue to guide individuals and society.
“Therefore, we hope and pray together that the worship of Ramadan will be absorbed into the heart and become a continuous practice,” he said.
He highlighted Malaysia’s diversity as a source of strength, noting that traditions such as visiting relatives and holding open houses during Aidilfitri reflect the country’s social cohesion.
“This country is built on the basis of diversity… therefore, we uphold traditions such as maintaining ties, open houses during Aidilfitri, to be embraced by all people in our country,” he said.
At the same time, he warned that increasing global uncertainty requires stronger national unity and resilience.
“Our world is now full of various perspectives, positions and trials. Therefore, the strength of our country lies in the unity of the heart… to defend unity and harmony,” he said.
Anwar pointed to geopolitical tensions, particularly in West Asia, as a key concern with direct economic implications.
“Our country is certainly not detached from geopolitical developments… the effects of war will certainly affect our region in terms of oil prices, goods prices, cost of living and pressure on the country’s economy,” he said.
He called on Malaysians to remain socially responsible, especially in supporting vulnerable communities, while avoiding excess in their celebrations.
“Therefore, while the government is trying to reduce the burden that will be placed on us, we are responsible to revive the spirit of Ramadan and the spirit of defending the fate of the poor people,” he said.
As Aidilfitri approaches, he reiterated the importance of moderation and compassion.
“We must be more vigilant… and be more determined to revive the spirit of Ramadan… to welcome the culture of Aidilfitri with more simplicity and to be more mindful of the fate of the poor people,” he said.
Despite external pressures, Anwar expressed confidence in Malaysia’s economic position, citing ongoing efforts to maintain stability.
“I believe, God willing, with proper preparation and planning, our country can remain optimistic with the economic situation that we have achieved,” he said.
He added that the government would continue advancing its national agenda focused on justice, prosperity and social well-being.
“On this day of victory, let us be determined to realise the Malaysia Madani agenda… to uphold justice, defend principles and ensure the prosperity and security of the country,” he said.
Anwar extended greetings to Malaysians celebrating Aidilfitri, encouraging unity and mutual forgiveness.
“Eid al-Fitr… Happy Eid… Maaf Zahir dan Batin,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi extended his Eid al-Fitr greetings to the Muslim community nationwide and called on Muslims to continue spreading love, peace and forgiveness.
Zahid today extended festive greetings to Muslims nationwide via Facebook on behalf of his family, the Deputy Prime Minister's Office, all staff of the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, and all UMNO members.
"Wishing all Muslim friends around the world a Happy Eid. Let us continue to spread love, strengthen friendship, and forgive one another with sincere hearts as we celebrate this joyous occasion."
He also called on everyone to cherish the precious time spent with their families during the festival and wished that the Eid al-Fitr celebrations would bring blessings, peace and happiness to all.
Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof urged Muslims to celebrate Aidilfitri this year in a modest yet meaningful way.
He said the world today was still grappling with conflicts across several regions, including in West Asia with the situation in Gaza‑Palestine, while tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States continued to affect regional stability.
Fadillah said in Eastern Europe, the protracted Russia-Ukraine conflict had yet to find a resolution, while in South Asia, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan further contributed to pressures on regional peace.
He said the situation had affected not only global security, but also the world economy, causing disruptions in energy and food supplies, rising commodity prices, and volatility in international markets.
Malaysia was also impacted, with higher living costs, disrupted supply chains, and mounting economic challenges, highlighting the need for careful and prudent management of expenditures, he added.
“In these uncertain times, every penny we save holds great importance for our future and that of our family.
“However, let this situation not diminish the joy of Hari Raya. True happiness lies not in extravagance, but in togetherness, sitting with family, forgiving one another, treasuring your loved ones, and strengthening bonds with friends of all backgrounds,” he said in a Facebook post.
Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, said the Madani Government had taken several prudent measures to help the people navigate the global crisis, including providing targeted subsidies and managing fuel prices responsibly despite the rise in world oil prices.
In addition, he said the disbursement of Phase 2 of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) had been expedited, while Special Financial Assistance for civil servants had also been distributed.
Fadillah said an additional public holiday has been declared to facilitate Aidilfitri preparations and travel to hometowns, aiming to ease the people’s burdens and bring joy during the festive season.
“The government will continue to strive to ensure stability through price controls on essential goods, strengthening the social safety net, providing targeted assistance to the people and implementing measures to strengthen the domestic economy so that we are not overly dependent on external factors. Behind every policy and decision, there is a clear objective, to help the people lead better lives.
“However, Malaysia’s strength lies not only in government policies, but also in its people. In this challenging times, let us continue to uphold the unity that has long been the nation’s pillar by respecting, helping, and understanding one another across races. This is our greatest strength. Do not let differences divide us; instead, let our diversity be a source of strength,” he said.
Fadillah said Hari Raya, celebrated by Muslims tomorrow, is the best occasion for people to reconnect, extend forgiveness, and strengthen the bridges of unity.
“This country will continue to be strong only if its people remain united, segulai sejalai,” he said. - March 20, 2026
