We all know that Malaysia is famous for its melting pot of cultures and generally, all of us live harmoniously with each other. Amidst the festive atmosphere in the air recently, the different religious leaders in Penang gathered together and had an ‘interfaith walk’ on June 22 to show their love for our fellow countrymen.
According to FMT, the religious leaders walked along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, which was dubbed ‘Street of Harmony’ because there are several places of worship belonging to different faiths within the span of one kilometer. Nearly 50 people joined the ‘spiritual’ walk that made pit-stops at the four main places of worship, namely St George’s Church, Goddess of Mercy Temple, Kapitan Keling Mosque and the Sri Maha Mariamman temple.
The notable leaders who attended the walk were resplendent in their religious and traditional attire as they began walking from St George The Martyr Church to the Goddess of Mercy Temple, Lord Ganesh shrine, the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple and Kapitan Keling Mosque, before ending at the Acheen Street Mosque.
The group was led by Acheen Street Mosque chairman Mujahid Yusof Rawa and award-winning activist Anwar Fazal who also gave them a guided tour of the various places. At the end of the walk, mosque chairman and organiser of the walk Mujahid Yusof Rawa gave a touching talk about living together in a multiracial society. He also said that organising the walk would help strengthen their ties in a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society.
Roman Catholic Bishop of Penang Rev Sebastian Francis also made a speech saying, “God has called on everyone to be messengers of peace, joy, hope and justice. So, we share together this evening with the people of Penang, the people of the world, the passion, obedience to God. Passion for all God’s people, and for all creation. May peace be upon all of us.”
At the end of the walk, the multiracial group had a jovial buka puasa session with the rest of congregation at the Acheen mosque.
So much love and peace in Malaysia! Selamat Hari Raya everyone!
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