To foster cultural understanding and bridge gaps between diverse communities, Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines, Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, hosted a special Iftar dinner with members of the media at the Malaysian ambassador’s residence.

The gathering aimed to highlight the significance of Ramadan, promote inclusivity and showcase Islam as a religion of peace.

Castelino emphasized Ramadan as a time for reflection, spiritual growth and empathy, particularly toward the less fortunate.

He stressed the importance of fasting not only as a religious practice but also as a means to unite communities and foster shared values of compassion and mutual respect.

“The month of Ramadan is about more than just fasting. It’s a time for us to come together, reflect and reach out to those in need, regardless of their faith or background.”

“Islam is a religion of inclusivity and this is the message we want to share with the Filipino public, especially non-Muslim Filipinos, to foster greater understanding and harmony between communities.”

The evening’s events began with the Adhan (call to prayer) signaling the time to break the fast, followed by a meal featuring traditional Malaysian dishes.

This culinary exchange provided an opportunity for the media attendees to experience Malaysia’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage.

In addition to sharing the significance of Ramadan, Castelino encouraged Filipinos to explore Islam and its values.

He noted that the Muslim community in the Philippines and Malaysia has long coexisted peacefully with other religious groups and fostering open dialogue between faiths can help promote unity and understanding.

“Islam, like Christianity, is a religion of peace. I believe that by embracing each other’s cultures and traditions, we can work toward a more inclusive and cohesive society,” the ambassador remarked.

The Iftar event, which also included the Maghrib prayer, underscored the collective spirit of Ramadan and the importance of community.

By hosting such initiatives, the Malaysian Embassy aims to further strengthen relations with the Filipino people and promote a greater appreciation for the shared values of peace, compassion and mutual respect.

This event serves as an important step in promoting greater understanding between Islam and other religious communities, particularly in multi-ethnic societies like the Philippines.

Through initiatives like this, the embassy hopes to contribute to nation-building and the cultivation of lasting cultural bonds.