KUALA LUMPUR: Aidilfitri is a time for reconciliation, one of the core values of Islam, the prime minister said today.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim called upon Malaysians to take the opportunity during this Hari Raya, to reconcile over past mistakes, including for slips of the tongue that may have hurt others.
"We all make mistakes, (so) let us not be too proud to admit that we are not perfect. There might be slips of the tongue, harsh words, or moments of anger, hence, seize the opportunity to sincerely apologise.
"This is also what I want to convey to all Muslims and our Malaysian society, (which is) to apologise if we have hurt the feelings of our friends and relatives.
"With this, let us pray that we have enough strength to build unity, foster growth, show compassion to the less fortunate, empower the people, and achieve success as Malaysia must remain strong and prosperous," he said in a special address ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri tomorrow.
Anwar also called on the government administration to tap the experience and wisdom of past figures to promote progress and prosperity in the country.
He said the administration shold not only seek praise and approval, but must be open to constructive criticism, which is essential for the country's development.
He also called upon the administration to firmly adhere to the principles and values of Ramadan, to abandon detrimental old customs and traditions, and to diligently make efforts to understand the significant meaning of Ramadan.
"Our country must cultivate values to strengthen human dignity (karamah insaniah). With the country we have inherited, there is significant room for improvement and it is essential that we grasp the true essence of the highest level of Ramadan.
"The struggle undoubtedly demands patience and wisdom as various challenges in the reality of life require wisdom of action in all that we do.
"The struggle also requires careful planning to balance all aspects of governance and national affairs and overconfidence will only lead to failure," he said.
Anwar also stressed that the country requires the strength of all quarters, regardless of ethnicity, adding that no group should be sidelined based on race, religion or any other reason.
"The nation-building framework does not provide justification for belittling the importance of Islam as the federal religion or for enhancing the implementation of syariah law in our country.
"We must instead be firm, resolute and unwavering in our commitment to foster values and build a dignified nation.
"However, let us not take this as licence or opportunity to insult, undermine, or damage the cultural practices and way of life of others, as this balance must be maintained in the Malaysian spirit in celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri."