MUSLIMS around the world, as well as those in Brunei Darussalam, will soon be observing Ramadhan Al-Mubarak, a holy month that promises boundless blessings for the faithful.

In this regard, we, as Muslims, need to hold religious ceremonies throughout the holy month to increase our devotion to Allah the Almighty, and at the same time, seek forgiveness from Allah the Almighty.

This observation was made by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik in his ‘sabda’ during a ceremony to officiate to the distribution of dates, which are a personal contribution from His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in conjunction with the month of Ramadhan 1434/2013.

Ramadhan is also viewed as a month to show our confidence that the formula to saving the religion of the nation can only be achieved when all Muslims in the country adhere to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), according to HRH.

With regards to the distribution of dates, HRH said that there shouldn’t be any instance of Muslims in the country not receiving these personal gifts from His Majesty.

“If this were to happen, it would mean that we have failed to carry out the responsibilities entrusted on to us to distribute the dates. In this regard, it would be favourable if Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) could effectively monitor the situation to ensure that (everyone receive the dates),” HRH noted.

In ending his sabda, HRH expressed his appreciation and gratitude towards YSHHB, district officers, penghulus, village heads, Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Royal Brunei Police Force, Radio Television Brunei, Information Department, Royal Customs and Excise Department, Ports Department, various government agencies and all those who are involved in the distribution of His Majesty’s personal gift of dates. - Borneo Bulletin (20 June 2013)