To welcome the arrival of the month of Syawal St. George's School held a joyous celebration on Saturday 23 July 2016.
The celebration started with a 'Doa and Takbir Hari Raya Aidilfitri' recited by Ustaz Hafizzuddin bin Masri, Cikgu Hasrin bin Abdul Rahman and male Muslim students from Year 6 until Year 11.
In his welcoming speech, the Principal, Mr Janidi Jingan said, 'St George's School prides herself with her multiracial staff and students who possess a wealth of diverse cultures, beliefs and festivals that have contributed to her unique identity. Today's event is part of the school's annual activities to expose our students to such cultures by instilling values such as awareness, understanding, appreciation and tolerance of our differences.'
To the non-Muslims, the principal briefly explained the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. It is a day that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month. Fasting is intended to educate the Muslims in spirituality, humility and patience. Hari Raya Aidilfitri is often referred to as the day of victory for Muslims. Victory here means that they are able to train themselves to be physically and spiritually pious and devoted, to follow all of Allah's commands, while distancing themselves from what is forbidden. It is a time to cleanse the soul and to put to practice selflessness.
It has always been the school's stance that any major festival or celebration of a particular ethnic group in the school be celebrated in the spirit of togetherness.
The occasion was graced by Mr Anthony Liew, the Chairman of the School Board of Governors and spouse, other members of the School Board of Governors, Hajah Nooradinawati binti Haji Zakaria, officer from the Private Education Section, Ministry of Education, Ustaz Yahya bin Hj Said and Ustaz Hj Rosliman bin Hj Usop, officers from the Department of Islamic Studies, Ministry of Religious Affairs, ex-principals and ex-teachers of St.George's School,and other invited guests. Also in attendance were the Deputy Principal Mr.N.M.Mubarak, teachers and students. Ustaz Mohidin bin Haji Momin, Cikgu Selomi bin Haji Idris - joint chairpersons for the celebrations
A wide array of delicious festive food, cakes and drinks were contributed by the students, parents and teachers. Teachers, staff and students, dressed in their finest Hari Raya costumes, took part in singing festive songs while enjoying their scrumptious meals. There were also prizes for the best dressed teachers in traditional Hari Raya attire. With festive Raya songs in the air, the celebration gave everyone, a chance to mingle with and to greet each other in the spirit of Hari Raya.
*Check out this event gallery by click here.