Muslims Celebrate Eid-ul-Adha
2016.09.13
Millions of Muslims in South and Southeast Asia celebrated Eid-ul-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice that honors Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son to God and also marks the end of the Hajj.
In some parts of the South and Southeast Asian region, Eid was celebrated on Monday while in other areas the holiday occurred on Tuesday.
In Malaysia, Prime Minister Najib Razak said the festival should motivate Muslims to persevere in the face of struggle.
“In conjuction with the Eid-ul-Adha, we should learn that sacrifice requires perseverance and it should start from yourself. This is what we learn from Prophet Muhammad that provides inspiration and strength in our struggle,” Najib told Malaysians.
A Malaysian from Lubuk Merbau Village in the state of Perak thanked donors who provided animals for slaughter, a key part of the festival.
“We’re able to sacrifice four cows and one goat, compared with three cows last year,” Hassan Sulaiman told BenarNews.
“Alhamdulillah, thank God that we are given the opportunity again this year to celebrate this holy ceremony of Eid-ul-Adha. I would like to say my thanks to the generous people who are willing to donate their part in this ceremony.”
Indian leader Narendra Modi, a Hindu, greeted Muslims on the second holiest day of the Muslim calendar.
“May this festival enhance the spirit of peace and togetherness in our society,” he said in a tweet.