BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – On the eve of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam urged Muslims to always remember Allah SWT, in a world wracked by turmoil and violent conflict.

In his annual titah to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadhan, His Majesty reminded citizens that Hari Raya is not just a joyous celebration but a time to remember Allah deeply.

“It is not just for merry-making but also demands reciting and remembering Allah’s name constantly. This is at the core of the celebration,” he said on Friday, in a nationwide address broadcast on Radio Televisyen Brunei.

Isn’t it the highlight of the celebration when we go to the mosque together to perform the Aidilfitri prayers? Together we recite takbir, tahlil, tahmid and tasbir to glorify Allah…. This is what makes Hari Raya unique.

The monarch said these acts of remembrance are not empty gestures, but filled with reward from Allah.

The sultan added that in a world wracked by turmoil and conflict, peace is no longer guaranteed or secure:

“It has been replaced by chaos and violent killings… All these things are happening among Muslims. This is perhaps because we are far, or drifting farther away from Allah.

“Very few people remember Allah compared to other things. This is why enemies can infiltrate easily. Apart from the devil, enemies can also live among the people.”

He said that the cure for this is to become closer to God, reciting his name and seeking his guidance and protection.

His Majesty ended his titah by wishing the people of Brunei “Selamat Hari Raya” on behalf of the royal family.

“We pray you are blessed with health and the opportunity to celebrate this happy occasion.”