Photo by Scruffy
This year, Malaysia Day coincides with Maulidur Rasul, a day commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.), a perfect reminder of the essence of unity—both as Malaysians and as members of the ummah. As we celebrate these significant occasions on 16th September 2024, it gives us a chance to slow down to reflect on the beauty of variety, harmony, and togetherness—characteristics that are ingrained in both the history of our country and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w).
Unity in Malaysia’s Diversity
Malaysia is famous for its diverse population, which peacefully coexist in many languages, cultures, and religions. Malaysia Day, observed on the anniversary of the formation of the country in 1963, represents the harmony that unites us all. The spirit of muhibbah, or the unity and goodwill among Malaysians, has always been a pillar of strength, despite the differences in our customs and beliefs. Because of its cohesiveness, Malaysia has been able to prosper as a multicultural country that values tolerance, respect, and common ground.
As citizens of Malaysia, we take great pride in being part of a nation that embraces diversity while being unified under one flag. Even though it hasn’t always been easy, our unity has helped us get through many difficulties and has demonstrated that our actual strength is our unity.
The Unity of the Ummah During the Prophet’s Time
Similarly, the early Muslim community’s prosperity and expansion were greatly influenced by the concept of unity during the time of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.). Following his migration to Madinah, the Prophet founded the first Islamic state on the ideals of harmony, unity, and respect for all people, regardless of social class, race, or tribe. Unmatched in their unity, the Anṣar and the Muhajirun established a classic model of selflessness and support for one another.
When the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) settled a disagreement between the Quraysh tribes regarding who would have the honour of setting up the Hajar al-Aswad during the reconstruction of the Kaʿbah, it stands as one of his most significant events of leadership. Instead of selecting a single tribe, the Prophet (s.a.w.) suggested a method in which the chiefs of all the tribes would work together, lifting the stone on a cloth to represent collaboration and unity. This act of bringing individuals together to collaborate peacefully is a reflection of the togetherness that we currently aspire to in Malaysia.
The leadership of the Prophet stressed how crucial it is to view the ummah as a unified body, in which the suffering of one member influences the entire. One of the key principles of Islamic teachings is the idea of shared responsibility. It reminds the Muslim community worldwide to preserve brotherhood and togetherness, just as the various ethnic groups that form Malaysia today.
As the leadership of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) encouraged cooperation amongst various tribes, Malaysia’s strength is found in our unity in diversity, where individuals from all backgrounds come together for the benefit of the country as a whole.
Lessons from the Prophet’s (s.a.w.) Unity for Malaysians Today
Narrated Abu Musa:
The Prophet (s.a.w.) said, “A believer to another believer is like a building whose different parts enforce each other.” The Prophet (s.a.w.) then clasped his hands with the fingers interlaced (while saying that).
(Ṣaḥiḥ al-Bukhari 2446)
This highlights the significance of community unity, collaboration, and support for one another. The people of a nation prosper when they unite in solidarity, just as a building’s bricks depend on one another for strength and stability. This lesson is mirrored in Malaysia, where a varied society thrives by uniting people of many racial backgrounds, cultural backgrounds, and religious beliefs to forge a strong, resilient nation. In order to promote peace, progress, and unity—all of which the Prophet (s.a.w.) intended for the ummah—this communal attitude is crucial.
There are similarities between the principles of unity in Islam and the oneness we celebrate on Malaysia Day. The Prophet’s (s.a.w.) efforts to unite the tribes, foster peace among communities, and bridge differences resonate strongly in the context of Malaysia’s own diverse landscape.
We can learn significantly from the Prophet’s (s.a.w.) portrayal of inclusion, tolerance, and compassion as we navigate the societal issues of today. We are reminded to value our diversity and deepen our relationships by cooperating and understanding one another. Like the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) established a harmonious community in Madinah, Malaysia can also flourish by maintaining its citizens’ togetherness.
A Continued Path Towards Unity
Let us be reminded of the value of unity this September 16th as we celebrate Maulidur Rasul and Malaysia Day. Mutual respect, empathy, and common principles serve as the cornerstones of both national and the unity of the ummah. We honour the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) as well as the legacy of our country’s founders by implementing these values into our daily lives.
May the unity spirit flourish in our hearts, and may we keep creating a stronger, more harmonious Malaysia for future generations. Selamat Hari Malaysia & Maulidur Rasul 1446H!
Hari Malaysia Campaign
In honour of Hari Malaysia, a day that represents the unity and resilience of our cherished country, Tertib Publishing is delighted to share an exclusive campaign. We are offering a 16% DISCOUNT on all of our books, both new and old, in the spirit of togetherness and enlightenment. As Malaysia’s diversity merges to create a more cohesive nation, we believe knowledge-seeking unites minds and emotions. Don’t pass up this chance to expand your collection and commemorate our strength as a whole.
