Anwar Ibrahim Calls for Moderation in Government Events During Ramadan

Putrajaya, The Gulf Observer: Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged all government agencies and departments to observe moderation in hosting official events during Ramadan, in alignment with the spiritual essence of the holy month.

Speaking at the Prime Minister’s Department monthly assembly on Monday (March 3), Anwar emphasized the significance of strengthening spirituality not only through acts of worship but also by upholding values of integrity, discipline, and honesty in daily life.

“Ramadan should be a time for self-reflection and extending aid to the less fortunate, rather than lavish iftar events and other activities,” he stated.

He further reminded ministries and government agencies to embrace simplicity in official functions, ensuring that available funds are directed towards assisting those in need.

“I have noticed that sometimes, departments, agencies, and government-linked companies provide contributions in an overly extravagant manner. For instance, beautifully designed packaging that may cost more than the contents, such as dates. This is… wastage,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister encouraged making Ramadan a time to cultivate the reading, comprehension, and appreciation of the Quran, as it serves as a guide for humanity.

“Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed, providing guidance in distinguishing between right and wrong. So let us take this opportunity to deepen our understanding and practise the teachings of the Quran,” he urged.

Also present at the assembly were Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.