As salaamu alaikum
In the spirit of gratefulness, I hope you will allow me the space to highlight an issue that I have been reflecting on for today.
As Muslims, today we will go home and celebrate our time with family and enjoy the blessings that Allah SWT has given to us.
In the meantime, many of our non-Muslim colleagues will be at work, some of them covering for us as we take time off to enjoy our much-needed holiday. They too have families, and they too deserve a break from the stress of work.
But in government sector, and I believe many companies like mine, half day is only granted to Muslims on this festive occasion eve. But on other occasions like Chinese New Year and Christmas eve, everyone is entitled to half day off, not only the Chinese or the Christians.
It makes me wonder, why does the government and employers treat us so special? Yes, we are the sons of the soil, and we are protected by Constitution. But does the Quran not teach us to be fair to our brothers and sisters, whether they are Muslim or not?
Maybe it would be better if everyone, regardless of race, language or religion like in our National Pledge, is given the chance to rest on all our public holiday eves. Instead of singling out Muslims to go on leave on Hari Raya eve, would it not be better for everyone to go home, enjoy the festivities and celebrate with our families?
It only takes a small thought and gesture on our part to do this. Yet this small act of graciousness on our parts may unlock the hearts of our brothers and sisters, bring them closer to us and Islam. Is that not what Allah SWT would want from us? Maybe MUIS and our leaders can make gentle recommendations to employers about this.
Selamat Hari Raya to all my Muslim and non-Muslim friends and colleagues!
Md Danial Yusof
A.S.S. Contributor
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