PRIME MINISTER VOREQE BAINIMARAMA'S MESSAGE ON RAMADAN

With the rising of the new moon, I wish our Muslim sisters and brothers a blessed Ramadan as you begin a month-long journey of self-discipline and spirituality, sustained by faith and your love for family, friends, and all of humanity.

As one of the few nations on Earth where people can safely gather, Fijians of all faiths can be together to openly share in the festivities of the Holy month and the opportunity that Ramadan provides for reflection.  

The past 12 months have given us much to contemplate. Through sacrifice, we have shielded our people from the ravages of the global pandemic. Yet the cruel necessity of closing our borders has placed an enormous burden of hardship on the backs of our people. The adversity we have endured - and continue to endure - has honed our appreciation for the blessings, big and small, that have been bestowed upon us. It has ignited generosity in the hearts of those with the means to aid those in-need. It has inspired a pioneering spirit in Fijians who have embraced new opportunities. It has revealed the true strength of our people's love for their country and for each other. For we come from many faiths, yet we are united by a deep desire to keep Fiji safe and see our beloved nation succeed.

For all those marking the start of Ramadan in Fiji and around the world, I pray that you find the great rewards that only charity and righteous deeds can offer. And I pray that your virtue inspires the world to give full embrace to a spirit of compassion that can sustain humanity through this terrible pandemic towards a future where all of us can be together, in health and happiness, once again.

Ramadan Kareem!