Different faiths come together to break fast

Mr Murali Pillai (centre, in white) MP for Bukit Batok attended the 10th Annual Inter-Faith Iftar as the Guest-of-Honour. ST PHOTO: CHERYL LIN

SINGAPORE - Members of different religious groups gathered on Wednesday evening (June 8) to break fast at the 10th Annual Inter-Faith Iftar, where Mr Murali Pillai, MP for Bukit Batok, attended as the guest of honour.

The inter-faith event saw a sharing session about the significance of fasting across different religions such as Catholicism, Hinduism and Judaism, before the event's estimated 50 attendees broke fast and enjoyed a meal together.

Speakers at the session included noted individuals such as Rabbi Mordechai Abergel, Chief Rabbi of the Singapore Jewish Welfare Board, Mr Gurmit Singh, Vice-President of the Inter Religious Organisation, and Mr Noor Mohammed Marican, President of the Association of Muslim Lawyers.

"We have a high level of trust and the relationships are strong - but this did not happen overnight. It took kindling, rekindling and nurturing the relationship," said Mr Murali in a short speech at the event, referring to religious harmony that has been forged in Singapore.

He also added: "It will never be a finished product. Future generations must pledge to do their part to strengthen the relationship in the light of challenges that face us."

Organised by the Muslim Kidney Action Association, the annual event aims to promote fellowship and goodwill, as well as respect for others' religions.

"We in Singapore want to be the showcase where people of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds can mix together and be happy and harmonious," said Mr Ameerali Abdeali, President of the Muslim Kidney Action Association.

"All we need to do is build friendship."

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