Bula Vina’a and As-salamu alaykum,
On this special occasion of Eid al-Fitr, I extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to our Muslim brothers and sisters in Fiji and around the world.
After a month of sacrifice through fasting, prayer, and self-reflection during Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr is a time of renewal and celebration for Muslims everywhere.
Eid reminds us of the importance of family, friends, and community — as well as the vital role of faith in inspiring us to go above and beyond to make the world a better place for those around us.
We are blessed to live in a country where we respect and support one another, despite our diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs.
This is the very foundation upon which your Coalition Government builds its vision — a future of unity, inclusion, and goodwill.
This Eid al-Fitr also brings to mind the powerful call for unity made by His Excellency the President,Na Gone Turaga Bale Na Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, when he opened the new session of Parliament in February.
He said and I quote, “As a diverse society, we must continue embracing inclusivity rather than assimilation. We recognize that multiculturalism does not exist in isolation. It is based on the originality of the various ethnic groups, for therein lies the rich mix of our diversity, which we must continue to embrace and nurture — for this is our beacon shining brightly in our diverse, beloved nation.
“For the intermingling of our peoples leads to innovation and new ways of looking at and doing things. These are the catalysts for creativity, for entrepreneurship, and above all, a vibrant society and economic growth”- unquote.
As our Muslim brothers and sisters celebrate Eid, this special occasion also offers a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions that the Muslim community has made — and continues to make — to our nation’s progress.
They have helped build a strong, diverse, and resilient Fiji.
I encourage everyone to draw inspiration from the spirit of Eid al-Fitr, and to continue building a Fiji where everyone feels valued, respected, and appreciated.
On behalf of the Government, I wish you all a blessed and joyful Eid al-Fitr.
