| Azlan Othman |
BRUNEI Darussalam is a good example of a unique model of coexistence, not only for Muslim countries, but the entire world at large.
This was stated by Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashel bin Rashed bin Hashel Al-Maskari, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Brunei Darussalam, yesterday at the opening ceremony of an exhibition titled ‘Tolerance, Understanding, Coexistence: Oman Message of Islam’, held at the Arts Centre of Jerudong International School (JIS).
“I am happy to share my observation that the sensible approach of Bruneians towards tolerance does not only stem from cultural upbringing, but also from a desire to build a healthy future,” he said. “Consequently, a civilised society like that of Brunei, with principles of tolerance and protecting social stability, can always demonstrate rapid development.”
“This exhibition, which has been staged in over 70 cities across the world, could not have come at a more suitable time. At a time when violence and extremism continue to unfortunately prevail, in certain parts of the world,” he added. “It is recognised that violence and confrontation are a threat to all world religions. Besides being also a threat to civilisations, they challenge values and cultures; in international relations, cultural diplomacy is significant. Its ultimate goal is to promote mutual understanding.”
Meanwhile, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, said that the practice of tolerance has long been deeply rooted in the foundations of Omani and Bruneian societies.
Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs viewing art work while Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashel bin Rashed bin Hashel Al-Maskari (3rd from right), Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Brunei Darussalam looks on. – AZLAN OTHMAN
The constitution of Brunei states that Islam is the official religion of Brunei Darussalam and that all other religions may be practised in Brunei Darussalam by the persons professing them.
Brunei has also actively participated in global interfaith dialogues to promote tolerance and understanding of the Islamic faith.
Present as guest of honour at the event was Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs.
This exhibition was organised to showcase religious tolerance, intercultural understanding and interreligious dialogue while depicting how Islam is practised in the modern Arab society of Oman.
The exhibition also sought to promote the similarities between Brunei and Oman in terms of religious culture and preservation of cultural and traditional values while keeping up with development and technology.
Also being showcased at the exhibition are various displays of calligraphy and sand art by renowned Omani artist, Shayma Ahmed Mohammed Al-Mughairy and a Nasyid performance by Anwar Salim Hamod Al-Asmi.
The exhibition is set to run from November 29 – December 1 and is open to the public from 10am-5pm.
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