May 16th, 2018: The following is a message from Minister of Rural Development and Local Government Haji Kazim Hosein on the start of the Holy Month of Ramadan:
On behalf of the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government I extend best wishes to our nation's Muslim community on the occasion of Ramadan.
We welcome this Blessed month as it is the month in which the Holy Qur’an was revealed to guide mankind. This is a month for extra prayer, reflection, and generosity. With the help and guidance of the Almighty we approach the month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic Lunar calendar. This is the month in which Muslims in Trinidad and Tobago, and around the world keep fast from dawn to sunset and abstain from food, drink, vain talk and impermissible actions in reverence to Almighty Allah (swt).
This year I appeal to all my Muslim Brothers and Sisters to exercise service to God through the service to mankind with your family and friends, whether it is by donating, volunteering your time, or even fundraising, in support of those who are disadvantaged and suffering in our society.
I further urge that we engage our young people to learn the teachings of our faith and exercise them in their daily lives. As parents, elders and role models for the youth of our nation, we must inculcate in them, morals and values so that they may be guided on the path of goodness and generosity.
Let us continue our focus on the unity that we have achieved across our diverse nation, and discourage divisive behaviours and the impermissible both during this month and throughout our lives, that our community may continue to thrive and actively contribute to building the fabric of Trinidadian society.
I would once again like to wish you and your loved ones a rewarding and successful Ramadan. I pray that Allah (swt) grants us health and imaan to seek His reward through good deeds. I also pray that Allah (swt) grants ease for all our Brothers and Sisters who are facing difficulties and suffering hardships. Ameen.
Ramadan Kareem and best wishes.