KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 — Cabinet ministers urged Malaysians to use Aidilfitri celebrations as ways to strengthen unity, encourage kindness and solidarity, as well as enhance humanitarian values in the country’s multicultural society.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said Aidilfitri was not merely a celebration but a symbol of spirituality and humility that serve as a foundation for the strength of a society, and that in an era driven by technological developments and artificial intelligence (AI), humanitarian values have to be the priority to ensure harmony is preserved.

“Technology must be used to strengthen solidarity and spread kindness, not as dividers that seperate us.

“As Malaysians living in a multicultural country, let’s carry on instilling values of mutual respect, tolerance and solidarity. These are the foundation of our country’s strength, the unity that springs forth from diversity,” he said in a video posted on Facebook today.

Meanwhile, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang urged Malaysians to forgive one another and to foster closer ties regardless of race, religion and culture, pointing out that the country could preserve harmony and ensure continued peace and prosperity through understanding and mutual respect.

“May Syawal bring a ray of joy, happiness and prosperity to all. In the spirit of unity, let us continue to cultivate respect, kindness and concern for each other,” he said.

Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R Ramanan meanwhile invited Malaysians to continue to strengthen their unity, instill kindness and to step forward in the spirit of togetherness towards a brighter future.

“Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir dan Batin. May the holy month of Syawal bring blessings, peace and happiness to us all,” he said.

Finally, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang conveyed his Hari Raya greetings to all Muslims and urged that the Malaysia Madani spirit to be further strengthened.

Meanwhile, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said that the Aidilfitri celebration should teach the values of moderation, discipline, and togetherness in ensuring national stability and continued food security through efficient and strategic management.

He also advised the public not to engage in panic buying based on unfounded rumours, which could lead to excessive purchasing.

“Do not let one or two rumours cause us to buy excessively. Purchase according to your needs, spend wisely, and avoid waste. Also support local products,” he said.

Mohamad also said that Malaysians must be prepared as the world today is full of uncertainties, emphasising that preparedness is not a sign of fear but rather a symbol of maturity and forward thinking.

“I am confident that the Madani Government will continue to protect the people with all its capabilities, but the public must also help by spreading the truth and avoiding slander and fake news,” he added.

Echoing the message of togetherness, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said that Aidilfitri is not merely a celebration, but a platform to appreciate relationships and strengthen bonds regardless of background.

“May the spirit of togetherness continue to flourish, and may we all be blessed with lasting health, happiness, and prosperity,” she said.

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming also called on the public to take the opportunity to forgive one another and nurture the spirit of unity for a more glorious future for the nation while Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup invited the public to practice the concept of #SustainableRaya by avoiding food waste, reducing the use of single-use plastics, and managing waste wisely for the sake of the ecosystem.

“We share the same Earth, therefore the responsibility of preserving environmental sustainability is a trust that transcends religion and race. May the joy of this year’s Syawal bring blessings without leaving a burden on the environment for the future,” he added. — Bernama