Aidiladha message centres on sacrifice, humility and national resilience

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysians to internalise the values of sacrifice, humility and moderation in confronting modern-day challenges, saying the deeper meaning of Aidiladha lies in strengthening both national resilience and spiritual consciousness.

In a message posted on Facebook ahead of the Aidiladha celebration, Anwar said the enduring legacy of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail demonstrated that every meaningful struggle demanded sacrifice as its foremost condition.

“The sacrifices we make today carry their own value across many spheres, whether in managing and steering the national economy, advancing knowledge or strengthening religious understanding, all of which shape the future,” he said.

“Thus, enduring hardships today for the sake of a better tomorrow is among the deepest divine mysteries, for the future of our families, our nation and even life after death.”

The Prime Minister framed sacrifice not merely as a religious act but as a broader moral principle underpinning nation-building and personal integrity.

“Without sacrificing the very things desired by mankind — wealth, family and status — life becomes empty and devoid of values,” he said.

“Therefore, the sincerity and piety of an individual can be measured by the value of what is sacrificed. The more precious the sacrifice, the greater the devotion and its eventual reward.”

Turning to the Hajj pilgrimage, Anwar said the fifth pillar of Islam carried profound spiritual objectives intended to cultivate humility, simplicity and self-discipline among Muslims.

He said the wearing of plain white ihram garments instilled lessons of purity, cleanliness and moderation, while the gathering at Arafah reminded pilgrims of humility and equality regardless of rank or social standing.

“This is the unparalleled strength of Haj, reflected through profound understanding, appreciation and the living practice of our faith,” he said.

Anwar also urged Muslims not to become consumed by worldly temptations and fleeting luxuries, but instead to view life as a pathway towards eternal fulfilment.

“Let us not stray from our purpose and direction. This world must become a strong bridge towards the eternal abode,” he said.

The Prime Minister also prayed for Malaysian pilgrims currently in the Holy Land to be granted a blessed hajj and to return safely to the country.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Aidiladha should serve as a reminder that the celebration was rooted in sacrifice, sincerity and obedience to Allah, rather than being viewed merely as a festive occasion.

In his own Facebook message, Ahmad Zahid said the story of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail remained a timeless example of unwavering faith and compassion in fulfilling divine commands.

“The sacrificial ritual also symbolises compassion and the spirit of sharing sustenance for the wellbeing of society,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid expressed hope that the Aidiladha celebration would strengthen family ties, foster unity and encourage continued assistance for those in need.

He also prayed for Malaysian haj pilgrims to have their affairs eased and to be granted a haj mabrur.

“My family and I wish all Muslims Selamat Hari Raya Aidiladha 1447. May this Aidiladha bring blessings and mercy to us all, God willing,” he said. - May 27, 2026