Source: New Zealand Government
Assalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all.
Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister for Ethnic Communities.
I would first like to welcome and acknowledge our guests:
- Mr Mervin Singham, Chief Executive of the Ministry for Ethnic Communities
- Mr Ibrar Sheikh, President of The Federation of the Islamic Associations of New Zealand
- Dr Sajjad Haider Naqvi, President of the Islamic Council of New Zealand
- Ms Aliya Danzeisen, National Coordinator of the Islamic Women’s Council New Zealand
- The many faith and community leaders present from across the country.
- My parliamentary colleagues
- Members of the Diplomatic Corps
- Our co-emcees, Mr Atef Khan and Member of Parliament for Takanini, Rima Nakhle
- And the special youth talents joining us this evening.
Eid is a time of joy and gratitude as Muslims reflect on their spiritual journey during the holy month of Ramadan and give thanks for the blessings in their lives. It is a time when Muslims around the world come together to offer prayers, exchange gifts, share meals, and perform acts of kindness.
It is also a time of generosity, as many Muslims give to charity and help those in need. During my time in Malaysia, Eid was a time for everyone, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, to come together and enjoy the celebrations. Those moments were beautiful to remember!
It is important always to celebrate the opportunities that unite us and bring us closer to one another. These values are fundamental to building culturally rich and prosperous communities in New Zealand.
As the Minister for Ethnic Communities, I am committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and social cohesion. I also commend the resilience of our Kiwi Muslims. Earlier this month, I had the privilege to join Wellington’s vibrant Muslim community on Eid day at Sky Stadium. Witnessing families and children come together under one roof was uplifting. Talking with the community, I heard firsthand how this event, attended by 4,000 people, made them ‘feel at home’.
I acknowledge that Eid al-Fitr holds a different significance for many Muslims this year, given the global challenges persisting from the previous year. The ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza has impacted many in our communities, both directly and indirectly. My thoughts and prayers go to all those affected. This conflict serves as a reminder of the peace we are so privileged to experience in New Zealand.
The government recognises the work of many organisations that support Muslim communities in New Zealand and nurture a stronger and more inclusive society through their work. It underscores the resilience and unity displayed by New Zealanders in the face of adversity.
New Zealand is well equipped to welcome our diverse, growing Muslim community and support them, with the Ministry for Ethnic Communities working hard nationwide. The Ministry’s Ethnic Communities Development Fund continues to support community-led initiatives – such as Eid day at Sky Stadium – which are aimed at promoting peace, understanding, and healing in affected communities.
The Ministry ensures that your voices, needs, and perspectives are heard across government agencies. This is so our ethnic communities can flourish socially, contribute to our economy, and feel safe and valued in New Zealand.
It is my pleasure to welcome you all tonight. I hope you enjoy the programme ahead. I wish you a blessed and joyous time with friends and family on this special occasion.
Eid Mubarak to you all!
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