At the gathering, Duong Anh Duc, head of the commission, conveyed the city leadership’s best wishes to representatives of the Muslim community and Cham ethnic residents celebrating the holiday.

Raya Idil Adha, also known locally as Roya Haji, is a traditional festival that holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Cham Muslim community. The celebration reflects values of unity, compassion, goodwill and prayers for peace and happiness. It is also an occasion to strengthen community bonds and preserve the cultural identity of the Cham people in Ho Chi Minh City.

Duong Anh Duc noted that during major religious holidays, the city regularly organizes visits to share in the celebrations of religious communities while acknowledging their contributions to the city’s development and national unity.

According to the city official, Ho Chi Minh City’s social stability and development have been supported by the active contributions of religious communities, including Cham Muslims. He said the community has consistently complied with state policies and laws while working alongside local authorities to build a united and compassionate society.

He also expressed hope that the Cham community would continue supporting the city as it implements a new two-tier local government model aimed at improving living standards and maintaining political stability and social order.

Representing the Muslim community in Ho Chi Minh City, Machdares Samael expressed appreciation for the attention and support shown by city leaders. He said the visit served as a meaningful source of encouragement for local Muslim residents.

Machdares Samael explained that Raya Idil Adha is among the most important holidays in Islam and is regarded as the Lunar New Year celebration of Muslim communities around the world.

He added that this year, 107 Cham Muslims from Ho Chi Minh City and provinces including An Giang, Tay Ninh and Dong Nai are making the pilgrimage through self-funded trips, while six others received sponsorship from the Saudi royal family.

During the festival, worshippers perform sacred rituals such as gathering at the plain of Arafat, circling the Kaaba and carrying out sacrificial rites. After the ceremonies, Muslims distribute lamb meat to poor and disadvantaged people as well as relatives within the community, reflecting values of solidarity and compassion.

Nguyen Hue