This Ramadan, during the season of reflection and blessings, we have much to be grateful for, including the opportunity to celebrate and observe Eid, together with our family and friends. This is something that we have worked hard to accomplish, to keep up with our traditions, despite the COVID- 19 pandemic.
As we enter our fourth year of battle against the virus, it may very well be the year that we end COVID-19 as a global emergency. Whether we do or not will largely depend on us.
The virus has in many ways stabilized and become relatively consistent, evolving to be more transmissible but not as of yet more deadly or virulent. While this may seem positive, we are constantly reminded that COVID-19 still poses a risk to us all, as we are seeing an increase in cases both in Malaysia and in the Region, in recent weeks.
This is concerning, especially during this important, celebratory season when people naturally congregate and spend more time with each other.
Today, we are well equipped with the knowledge and resources to protect ourselves against the virus but we must use all these tools appropriately and consistently. Staying safe and healthy requires our diligence and depends on our ability to lower the risks of getting exposed to the virus or infecting others around us.
This is why we still need to test, treat and isolate, immunize or boost, and continue to do what we know works against the virus.
If you are traveling to meet up with your friends or family, try to congregate outdoors whenever possible and test yourself before doing so, especially if you have symptoms or have been in close contact with somebody with COVID-19. If you are hosting people, verify that everyone is vaccinated – it is not impolite to discuss vaccination status with your guests. We reaffirm the importance of getting COVID-19 vaccination and booster shots ahead of Eid to allow for safer gatherings. Vaccines are permissible as well during Ramadan and during fasting. If attending an event but you see that you cannot maintain a safe distance from others or that the space is too confined or without fresh air, wear a well-fitted mask or socially distance yourself. These and other public health and social measures will continue to save lives.
May you stay healthy and protected from COVID-19 during the Eid celebrations. Our important traditions mean little if there are no people to practice them. Keep yourselves and your loved ones healthy and safe, and meet the future together. And the traditions will follow.