Embassy of Israel in Singapore hosted breaking-of-fast dinner with Muslim community

SINGAPORE - The Embassy of Israel in Singapore hosted an iftar, or breaking-of-fast, dinner with members of the Muslim community last week, and described the event as being "a symbol of fellowship between the two communities" here.

The dinner at Grand Park Hotel was attended by Israeli Ambassador to Singapore Yael Rubinstein; Imam Habib Syed Hassan al-Attas, head of the Ba'alwie Mosque in Lewis Road; Rabbi Netanel Rivni of the Jewish community in Singapore; as well as Muslim businessmen and Muslim students from local universities, the embassy said in a statement on Monday.

In her remarks at the event, Ms Rubinstein spoke, among other things, about the similarities between the Jewish and Muslim religions, various aspects of the Arab community's activities in Israel, including the role they play in the justice system and police forces, and also noted that Arabic serves as the official second language in Israel.

She also touched on Singapore's success in maintaining racial and religious harmony, saying: "Singapore is an example of a diverse society that has been able to live in harmony and that we could all learn something from."

Mr Hassan and Rabbi Rivni also addressed the gathering. The Muslim guests then attend a prayer session led by Mr Hassan before proceeding to the iftar dinner.

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