Prime Minister Hun Sen posted a picture surrounded by Muslim community leaders and members. AKP
Prime Minister Hun Sen on March 31 sent out a message of unity and support to Cambodian Muslims ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, which begins on April 2 in the Kingdom, according to a statement.
The statement posted on Hun Sen’s official Facebook had 10 photos attached showing the prime minister greeting the Kingdom’s Muslim community in years past before the Covid-19 pandemic struck.
“On behalf of the government, my wife and I congratulate and wish good health and happiness to Cambodian Muslims in and outside of Cambodia, as well as Muslims around the world during the occasion of Ramadan,” the premier was quoted as saying.
The leader of the Cambodian People’s Party offered words of “profound wistfulness and gratitude” to Muslims across the Kingdom for joining in efforts to protect peace and for their faith in his leadership and his party “from the very beginning”, the statement said.
Hun Sen apologised and appealed to the community for understanding over the suspension of large gatherings during Eid al-Fitr – a feast to end the period of the month-long fasting – for a third year due to lingering Covid concerns. The government, however, will allow worship at mosques and other gathering for religious events.
He also reiterated a call for everyone to follow the Covid-19 prevention measures, as well as the instructions issued by the chairman of the Highest Council for Islamic Religious Affairs of Cambodia (Mufti of Cambodia) that are in line with government measures, according to the statement.
“We must not be complacent and negligent when it comes to this vicious disease. We all need to do our part at all times to fend it off. Everyone needs to follow the ‘three do’s and three don’ts’ and go get the jabs and booster shots,” Hun Sen said.
The “three do’s” – also called the “three protections” – are to wear a face mask, wash hands frequently, and keep a safe distance from other people (usually defined as 1.5m). The “three don’ts” are to avoid confined and enclosed spaces, stay away from crowded places, and refrain from touching others.
